The Central Fells

High Tove

515m | 1690ft

High Tove is a fell in the English Lake District, close to the geographical centre of the Cumbrian hills. It forms part of the watershed between the Derwentwater and Thirlmere catchments, a ridge running broadly north-south.

Popular Routes

Watendlath to High Tove
Distance: 6.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
This route starts from the picturesque hamlet of Watendlath, following a well-trodden path that ascends gradually to the summit of High Tove. The path can be boggy in places, especially after rain, but offers stunning views of the surrounding fells.
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Thirlmere to High Tove
Distance: 8km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting from the shores of Thirlmere, this route takes you through woodland and open fell, offering a more secluded ascent to High Tove. The path is less defined in places, requiring good navigation skills.
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Armboth Fell to High Tove
Distance: 7km
Difficulty: Challenging
This route begins at Armboth car park and takes you over Armboth Fell before reaching High Tove. The terrain is rough and boggy, making it a challenging walk, but the views from the top are rewarding.
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Parking

Watendlath Car Park
A small National Trust car park located in the hamlet of Watendlath. It can fill up quickly during peak times.
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Thirlmere Car Park
A larger car park located near the shores of Thirlmere, providing access to several walking routes.
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Armboth Car Park
A small car park located near the start of the Armboth Fell route. Limited spaces available.
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Public Transport

The nearest major transport hub is Keswick, which is well-connected by bus services to other parts of the Lake District.
Bus services are available from Keswick to Watendlath and Thirlmere, but check the latest timetables as services can be infrequent.

Closest Towns

Keswick
A bustling market town located in the heart of the Lake District, offering a range of amenities including shops, restaurants, and accommodation.
Ambleside
A popular town known for its outdoor shops and proximity to many walking routes in the Lake District.

Pubs & Restaurants

The Bridge Inn
A traditional pub offering hearty meals and a selection of local ales, perfect for a post-walk meal.
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The Dog and Gun
A popular pub in Keswick known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious goulash.
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Good to know

The weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, so be prepared for all conditions.
The paths can be boggy, especially after rain, so waterproof boots are recommended.
High Tove offers stunning views of the surrounding fells, making it a rewarding climb despite the challenging terrain.
Ensure you have a map and compass, as some paths are less defined and require good navigation skills.
The area is rich in wildlife, so keep an eye out for red squirrels and a variety of bird species.