The North Western Fells

Castle Crag

290m | 950ft

Castle Crag is a hill in the North Western Fells of the English Lake District. It is the smallest hill included in Alfred Wainwright's influential Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, the only Wainwright below 1,000 feet.

Popular Routes

Castle Crag via Grange
Distance: 4.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
This route starts from the village of Grange and follows a well-trodden path along the River Derwent before ascending through woodland to the summit of Castle Crag. The path is steep in places but offers stunning views of the surrounding fells and Derwentwater.
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Castle Crag from Rosthwaite
Distance: 3.5km
Difficulty: Easy
A gentle walk starting from Rosthwaite, this route takes you through the beautiful Borrowdale Valley, passing through woodland and open fields before a short, steep climb to the summit. Ideal for families and those looking for a shorter walk.
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Circular Route from Seatoller
Distance: 7km
Difficulty: Moderate
This circular route begins in Seatoller and takes you through the scenic Honister Pass before ascending to Castle Crag. The descent follows a different path, offering varied views and a chance to explore more of the Borrowdale Valley.
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Parking

Grange Car Park
A small car park located in the village of Grange, ideal for starting the walk to Castle Crag via the Grange route.
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Rosthwaite Car Park
Conveniently located in Rosthwaite, this car park is perfect for those taking the route from Rosthwaite to Castle Crag.
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Seatoller National Trust Car Park
A National Trust car park in Seatoller, providing access to the circular route to Castle Crag.
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Public Transport

Regular bus services run from Keswick to Borrowdale, stopping at Grange, Rosthwaite, and Seatoller, making it accessible for walkers without a car.
Check the latest bus schedules as they can vary seasonally.

Closest Towns

Keswick
A bustling market town located just north of Borrowdale, offering a range of shops, accommodation, and outdoor activity providers.
Grange
A small, picturesque village in Borrowdale, serving as a starting point for several walking routes, including those to Castle Crag.

Pubs & Restaurants

The Borrowdale Hotel
A traditional hotel offering hearty meals and a selection of local ales, perfect for a post-walk meal.
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The Riverside Bar
Located in the Scafell Hotel, this bar offers a cozy atmosphere with a good selection of food and drinks.
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Good to know

Weather in the Lake District can change rapidly; always check the forecast before setting out.
Some paths can be slippery, especially after rain. Good walking boots are recommended.
Castle Crag is the smallest of the Wainwrights but offers spectacular views from the summit.
Bring a map and compass, as mobile signal can be unreliable in the valleys.
Look out for red squirrels and a variety of bird species in the woodland areas.