Lonscale Fell

About Lonscale Fell

Lonscale Fell lies within the Northern Fells. Its elevation above sea level is 715 m (2,346 ft), while its prominence is around 50 m (164 ft). Its parent peak is Skiddaw Little Man and it is listed as a Wainwright, a Hewitt and a Nuttall.

There are two ‘summits’: the actual highest point is on the gently domed western side. There is a cairn and an impressive view of the Lake District to the south, including Thirlmere Reservoir, Derwentwater and all of the major fell groupings. In other directions, the northern fells are visible, obscuring views beyond. The more prominent peaked top on the eastern side is in fact at a lower height of 703 m (2,306 ft), and is commonly referred to as Lonscale Pike.

Climbing Lonscale Fell

The best ascents are from Keswick, or for ease, from the Gale Road car park just beyond the town. The most commonly used walk is via the so-called Skiddaw tourist route which follows a steep but well-marked path as far as a gate on Jenkin Hill. From there, there is a more level path up to Lonscale Fell. This route can be busy and also tends to be fairly wet underfoot after rain. A quieter, slightly shorter route is from the same car park, but turning off the tourist path to the right down to Whit Beck. Cross the beck and join the Cumbria Way which then ascends across the gently sloping southern side of the fell with a steep hike to the summit following.