This complex mountain boasts two of the Lake District's best ridges. Sharp Edge on the east of the mountain and Halls Fell (Narrow Edge) to the south. As Narrow Edge ascends directly to the summit cairn and as the awkward part of Sharp Edge is all but horizontal I would recommend a clockwise round of the two ridges if you wish to climb them in a single outing (scrambles on both ridges easier than Jack's Rake but more exposed - in dry and calm conditions only). Start the climb from Gategill farm (parking by A66 or carpark in Threlkeld), once out of the enclosed fields leave Gate Gill and head up the steep nose of Halls Fell. Grass soon turns to rock and a pleasant easy scramble along Narrow Edge ensues, especially if the absolute top of the ridge is adhered to. The ridge arrives exactly at the summit cairn, where the views can be appreciated over refreshments before following the highest ground north towards Foule Crag, where Sharpe Edge drops away to the east just before the crag is reached. An awkward step is encountered where the ridge levels out but is within the capacity of any hillwalker in reasonable condition and with reasonable conditions if due care is taken.On the way down a second lunch can be enjoyed at Scales Tarn with views of the Edge above before descending Scales Fell to the road. The two ridges either side of Halls Fell are also well worth an ascent (Gategill and Doddick Fells). Easy descent routes can be found in the SE (Scales Fell) to the A66 or in the W to Threlkeld (Blease Fell).

"Back o' Skiddaw"
The north of the hill is very different in character and a quiet day can be had exploring this approach (note that the Caldew will have to be forded) reaching the summit over Mungrisdale Common or Bannerdale Fell. 
The land north of Blencathra seems to have a slightly Scottish feel to it and at one time the Caldew did indeed form the border between England and Scotland.