Conquering High Street: A Tomahawk Adventure in the Lake District
At Tomahawk, we believe in pushing boundaries, embracing the wild, and dressing for adventure. Our team member Sarah (and her whippet companion), recently completed High Street in the Lake District—a stunning yet challenging fell that rewards climbers with breath taking views and thrilling scrambling sections.
High Street: A Historic and Rugged Climb
High Street, named after the Roman road that once traversed its summit, is one of the most iconic mountains in the Lake District. Standing at 828 meters, it’s a popular peak for hikers and scramblers alike, offering a blend of steady ascents and rugged, rocky sections perfect for testing both fitness and agility.
The Roman road that gives High Street its name was built in the 2nd century AD. It connected the Roman forts of Brougham (Brocavum) near Penrith and Ambleside (Galava). Romans chose the ridge route for visibility and ease of movement across the fells, avoiding dense forests and marshes in the valleys. Roman soldiers, messengers, and traders would’ve used this high path to move between outposts.
During the medieval period, High Street was used by shepherds and drovers. Annual fairs were supposedly held on the summit, including horse races, leading to the nickname “Racecourse Hill.” These events likely occurred in the 18th and 19th centuries. Remains of old boundary walls and cairns (stone piles) still mark parts of the ancient route.
Sarah set off early, braving the crisp morning air in her trusted Tomahawk Tribe Pants and Virago Midlayer—designed for ultimate durability, warmth, and freedom of movement. The Tribe Pants provided exceptional flexibility for tackling rough terrain, while the Virago Midlayer kept her warm without overheating. The ascent featured a mix of grassy ridges and rocky paths, with dramatic views unfolding at every turn. The final push to the summit was nothing short of exhilarating, with panoramic views stretching as far as the Pennines and beyond.
A True Test of Endurance and Gear
The rugged nature of High Street meant Sarah had to navigate uneven ground, exposed ridges, and sudden shifts in weather. The wind picked up as she climbed higher, making her appreciate the wind-resistant properties of the Virago Midlayer. The breathable, moisture-wicking fabric kept her comfortable during the more intense scrambles. Meanwhile, the Tribe Pants provided the durability needed to withstand rocky surfaces while offering the flexibility required for agile movement.
One of the highlights of the climb was reaching the summit plateau, where the remnants of the ancient Roman road became visible. Imagining the soldiers who once marched these heights centuries ago added to the sense of accomplishment. The view from the top was breath taking—a sweeping panorama of the Lake District’s dramatic landscapes, with Ullswater shimmering in the distance.
The Best Scrambling Mountains in the Lake District
If you’re inspired by Sarah’s adventure and want to tackle more scrambling routes, here are some of the best peaks in the Lake District:
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Helvellyn via Striding Edge – A classic Grade 1 scramble, offering knife-edge ridges and heart-racing drops.
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Blencathra via Sharp Edge – A steep and narrow ridge that provides a true test of nerve and skill.
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Pillar Rock – One of the most technical scrambles in the area, featuring challenging climbs and incredible views.
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Bowfell via The Great Slab – A rewarding ascent with breathtaking scenery and engaging rocky terrain.
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Crinkle Crags & Long Top – A series of rocky scrambles, making for an exhilarating mountain day out.
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Scafell Pike via Mickledore – England’s highest peak, with a route that combines hiking and scrambling for an ultimate challenge.
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Harrison Stickle via Jack’s Rake – A steep scramble up the Langdale Pikes, offering an unforgettable climbing experience.
Gear Up with Tomahawk
Adventures like Sarah’s demand high-performance gear. Our latest Tomahawk women’s outdoor collection is crafted for resilience, comfort, and style—because conquering mountains should never mean compromising on quality.
The Tribe Pants offer unbeatable mobility with reinforced knee panels for extra durability, while the Virago Midlayer balances warmth and breathability with its innovative fabric blend. Whether you’re tackling a challenging scramble or embarking on a long-distance hike, these pieces are designed to support every step of the journey.
If High Street and the other scrambling peaks have sparked your adventurous spirit, it’s time to gear up and hit the trails. Share your Tomahawk adventures with us using and tag us in your posts. Who knows? You might just be our next featured explorer!