Ghyll Scrambling

Photo thanks to Andy at www.ghyllscrambling.co.uk

In Cumbria and the wider north, the word Ghyll refers to a mountain stream and is believed to have originated from Old Norse. Ghyll Scrambling refers to both ascending up a mountain stream (often called gorge walking / scrambling) and down a mountain stream (often called canyoning).

Some routes are more extreme than others with some being suitable for most age groups and abilities. This activity is actually enhanced by rainfall, as the streams become heavier and faster flowing, which is why it’s such a popular activity in the Lake District, where rain is a way of life.

What Ghyll Scrambling Involves

Your guide will take you through one of the many ghylls that can be found throughout the Lake District, where along the way you may find a mixture of gentle streams and fast flowing water, waterfalls to climb or to jump from, boulders and rocks to navigate through, all of which will test your physical fitness. You will need to be prepared to get wet (although wetsuits are provided) and cold, but you will get a sense of achievement from this exhilarating activity.

What to Wear and Bring

A group of happy ghyll scramblers

(Andy, www.ghyllscrambling.co.uk)

Most activity companies will provide you with a wetsuit, helmet, and buoyancy aids, but it is worth checking in advance what is provided and what isn’t. In addition, you will need to bring a swimming costume to wear under your wetsuit, and boots for your feet that are tightfitting, with good ankle support and grip, that you don’t mind getting wet.

You will need a towel, a change of clothes for when you have finished, and some companies suggest bringing old shorts to wear over your suit and base layer t-shirts to wear under.

Check what refreshments are available, but you might want to consider bringing something along, especially as you be burning off plenty of calories.

Where to Go Ghyll Scrambling in the Lake District

We do not recommend that you attempt Ghyll Scrambling without a qualified instructor, unless you have plenty of experience and all of the equipment that is required. There are plenty of companies offering a range of Ghyll Scrambling experiences throughout the Lake District.

Ghyll Scrambling in the Lake District

This family-run company offers tailored packages, including family friendly sessions, extreme canyoning, and stag and hen groups. Free pictures of your session are also provided.

• Address: Ashlea House, 67 High Brigham, Cockermouth, CA13 0TG
• Tel: 07974390977
• Website: ghyllscrambling.co.uk/ghyll-scrambling-in-the-lake-district