Tophet Wall Overview
Undoubtedly one of the finest routes of its standard in the Lake District. This climb takes its name from the crag ‘Tophet Wall’ which sits high on the side of Great Gable above Great Hell Gate screes. The crag has a sombre atmosphere which is accentuated by its overhanging walls, as well as the names of the many of the climbs here, which fire up the imagination.
It is described in the Fell and Rock Climbing Club Guidebook (2000) as: ‘A magnificent mountain outing winding its way through very impressive rock architecture’.
One of the features that make this climb so special is that it weaves its way through some very steep terrain at a fairly amenable angle and generally on big positive holds. The climbing has an exposed feel and is continuously interesting throughout. It also features in Ken Wilson’s iconic book ‘Classic Rock’.
Guided Rock Climbing on Tophet Wall
The route itself was first climbed in 1923 by H.M. Kelly and R.E.W Pritchard. It’s graded Hard Severe (HS) and is usually done in three or four pitches. If you have done some other classic multi-pitch climbs in the Lake District this could be for you. It requires a confident approach and would suit a climber who has some experience.
The area is steeped in Mountaineering history and the traverse near the top of the climb passes underneath one of the Lake District’s hardest climbs: ‘Breathless’ (E9 6c), which was first climbed by John Dunne in 2000. It’s a real treat to have a really close look! Tophet Wall could also be combined with an ascent of Napes Needle or other routes in the vicinity.
Please note that Tophet Wall is a multi-pitch climb so some previous experience is required. If you have a good level of fitness and the skills of a competent second , then please contact us for more information and to organise a day climbing here.
How many can participate?
Guided Rock Climbing works well on a 1:1 or 1:2 basis (instructor to participant) and can be booked from one day to a week in duration.
How much will it cost?
Our standard rates are for private one-to-one guiding or instruction. Additional participants can join for £50 per person, per day, subject to suitable ratios for the activity.
For longer adventures, bookings of five or more consecutive guiding days receive a 10% reduction on our standard guiding fees.
How to book
Let us know which course you’d like to book, along with your preferred date/s a brief outline of your experience. We require a 30% deposit to secure all bookings with full payment due prior to the start date of your course.
Some previous multi-pitch climbing experience necessary
Reasonable level of fitness required
Safety equipment provided