Walk 2609 - printer friendly version

Grasmoor via Crag Hill Walk

Author - Peter Aris

Length - 8.0 miles / 13 km

Ascent - 3200 feet / 970 metres

Grade - mod/hard

Start - OS grid reference NY173169
Lat 54.540582 + Long -3.2797689
Postcode CA13 9UZ (approx. location only)

This Lake District walk description is based on the series of photographs taken by me on 16th May 2004 during a walk from Buttermere. The weather was perfect with excellent long distance visibility with the distant early morning view of Great Gable with a cloak of mist being particularly noteworthy.

The start is the car park in Buttermere (Grid ref. NY173169). From the car park walk to the main road in the centre of the village and turn left towards Lorton. Cross Mill Beck and take the path on your right that follows this stream. Continue uphill to reach the indistinct col between Low Bank and Whiteless Pike (Grid ref. NY 179177). The climb continues up Whiteless Breast to reach the summit of Whiteless Pike.

The path loses some height as you continue along a well defined ridge with a steep drop to your right before climbing to the summit of Wandhope. Continuing you skirt Addacomb Hole on your right to reach the summit of Crag Hill from where there are extensive views in all directions.

Retracing your steps for a short way, ignore the path to Wandhope, instead descending gently to the col between Crag Hill and Grasmoor. Continue uphill to the summit of the latter peak. The domed summit area is not well suited for those wishing to enjoy the view and if you want to look down towards Crummock Water then continue a short way west past the summit cairn and shelter.

With the last summit of the day in the bag locate the steep path that descends over Lad Hows to Cinderdale Common. This is not the easiest descent if, like me, you're unfit and overweight! The views are fantastic though and well worth the pain - much better than via Coledale Hause and Gasgale Gill.

Reaching the road at Cinderdale Common turn left and walk back to Buttermere to enjoy a well earned pint at the Fish Hotel.

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