Pillar Rock - Guided Day | Lake District Mountaineering

pillar rock:

guided days

Climb the 'Inaccessible Pinnacle' of the Lake District. Climbing Pillar Rock is a true Lake District mountaineering adventure - steeped in history and set deep in the remote Ennerdale fells. With a long mountain approach, exposed positions, and classic routes.

This day is delivered by a mountain professionals that are affiliated with the Association of Mountaineering Instructors

GUIDING PRICES

1:1 £260

1:2 £150pp

ENQUIRE NOW

WHAT IS PILLAR ROCK?

The only Lake District summit that requires mountaineering and rock climbing skills.

Pillar Rock itself sits on the flanks of Pillar, an imposing place looming high above the Ennerdale valley - one of the most remote areas of the Lake District. This summit alludes many hill walkers and is the crown jewel for those completing the Nuttall's and Birkett's.

Pillar Rock and High Man itself stand proud, detached on all sides from the mountain, its a striking place and just to visit is well worth the effort

OUTLINE:

1. Mountaineering Option:

Focus: A full mountain day combining hiking, scrambling, and easy climbing onto Pillar Rock.

Meeting - Wasdale Head
Mountain approach hike and scramble along The High Level Route (~2-2.5 hours)
Scramble up Pillar Rock, an ascent of Slab and Notch (Moderate rock climb)
Opportunity to practice scrambling techniques, rope-work, and movement skills
Descent from Pillar Rock in Jordan Gap (via abseil)
Summit Pillar (892m), enjoy panoramic views

Skills Developed:

Scrambling on exposed ground
Rope management and belaying
Moving on Grade III and Mod terrain

2. Classic Rock - Climbing Option:

Focus: Technical trad climbing on one of Pillar Rock’s classic routes from Ken Wilson’s Classic Rock

Meet and gear up at Wasdale Head
Approach walk - The High Level Route (~2-2.5hrs)
Chosen climbs: New West Climb (Vdiff) or Rib and Slab (HS)
Multi-pitch trad climbing
Guided instruction on climbing, gear placement and removal, and movement on technical ground
Complete the climb, abseil off the route

Skills Developed:

Trad climbing techniques and gear placements
Multi-pitch rope management
Confidence on steep, exposed rock

Abseiling off Pillar Rock - into Jordan Gap

WHY LDM?

Qualified Guides

Our guides are qualified rock climbers with extensive knowledge of the local climbing areas. They are certified and trained to a high standard. This standard is upheld through Mountain Training and our instructors hold the MCI award and are professional members of AMI.

Passion to inspire:

We're committed to leading by example, sharing knowledge, fostering growth and encouraging positivity in all climbing activities we provide.

Personalised Instruction

Our guides offer low ratio instruction & guiding, providing personalised tips and techniques to help climbers improve their skills and confidence on the rock.

Passion for Climbing

We are avid climbers ourselves, and our passion for the sport is evident in the experiences we create. We genuinely love sharing our knowledge and helping others discover the joy of rock climbing.

WHO IS THIS FOR?

Mountaineering Option:

Ideal for walkers and scramblers with good fitness who want to gain confidence on exposed mountain terrain and develop navigation and scrambling skills.

For those that want to complete their tick lists - Birkett's or Nuttall's - we have guided many walkers to the top so they can achieve their goals

Classic Rock Climbing Option:

Designed for trad climbers, looking to challenge themselves on one of the Lake District’s most iconic crags and be guided in a remote setting on classic rock routes.

16+ (under 18's to be with a parent or direct guardian)

Good hill walking fitness and mobility recommended

Some confidennce on exposed rock and steep ground

COURSE RATIOS

1:2 Ratio

2 people per 1 instructor

Safety is paramount so no more than 2 people per 1 instructor in technical terrain.

We can accommodate a party larger than 2 but this will require multiple instructors for the climbing section - we can supply instructors adhering to our ratios - please enquire.