Highlight • Climb
Castle Crag Summit
Hiking
5.0
(169)
smallest of all the 214 Wainwright Fells of the Lake District, but adventures
on Castle Crag are just as good as those on higher objectives. The fell’s name
is derived from its striking appearance, rising above a wooded patch of
Borrowdale like a great fortress. From its ramparts are superb views north over
Derwent Water towards the Vale of Keswick and noble Skiddaw, as well as south,
deep into Borrowdale.
A superb rocky
fortress that packs a punch greater than its modest height
Despite its
diminutive stature, Wainwright makes a strong case for Castle Crag’s inclusion
based on its magnificent independence. Geographically, it is a knoll rising
from the eastern flanks of Low Scawdel, yet its location above the Jaws of
Borrowdale, where the valley is squeezed between here and Grange Fell, makes it
a worthy objective indeed.
Approaches to Castle
Crag usually begin from either Grange to the north or from Rosthwaite in the
south. These two little villages ooze Lakeland charm, though it’s a popular
area so parking is at a premium. All paths merge before the final steep pull to
its rocky summit. One of the great things about Castle Crag is that an
adventure to its summit and back slots easily into a couple of hours.
When hiking to Castle
Crag, you can also visit one of the national park’s most interesting caves. On
its eastern flank is a cave that became the summer home of Millican Dalton, an
eccentric character and self-proclaimed ‘Professor of Adventure’. He worked as
a Lakeland guide and carved out a simple existence for many years.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
June 18, 2019
Hiking
June 18, 2019
Hiking
October 23, 2018
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Castle Crag Summit
4.8
(93)
486
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(30)
402
hikers
16.1km
05:32
790m
790m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(25)
217
hikers
4.34km
01:26
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 250 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Sunday 5 July
18°C
14°C
26 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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