Day 4

6th Aug- Stage 4: Patterdale (milepost 46.5) to Shap (milepost 62-63)   15.5 miles

 

Most Coast-to-Coast walkers, having spent two days on Wainwright's 'Stage 3' between Borrowdale and Patterdale, find the day from Patterdale to Shap one of the longest and hardest of the whole crossing. It is 16 miles and includes the largest daily ascent and descent of the tour, reaching 770m at Kidsty Pike. The 4-mile walk along Haweswater lake can be also quite tiring. In contrast the last 4 miles of the walk to Shap, along grassy riverbanks, through parkland and across pastures are easy going. There is no pub or cafe en route until you reach your overnight stop either at Shap (mileposts 62 to 63) or, for those who prefer a shorter day, at one of the twin hamlets of Bampton and Bampton Grange (each is 1.5 miles from the route at milepost 58.5). Depending on the weather and cloud conditions and the speed of your progress, possible picnic spots include, the 'Straights of Riggindale', a high saddle at 2500 feet on the High Street ridge offering fine views of the surrounding lakes and mountains, and the peaceful shores of Haweswater lake. Swimming in the lake is not allowed as it is a drinking water supply. There is a public phone box on the trail at milepost 58.

Staying at New Ing Lodge

 

A vast countryside view of Patterdale