The Southern Fells

Illgill Head

609m | 1998ft

Illgill Head is a fell in the English Lake District. It is known more commonly as the northern portion of the Wastwater Screes. The fell is 609 metres high and stands along the south-east shore of Wastwater, the deepest lake in England.

Popular Routes

Wasdale Head Circular
Distance: 10.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
This route starts at Wasdale Head and takes you on a circular path up to Illgill Head, offering stunning views over Wast Water and the surrounding fells.
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Whin Rigg and Illgill Head from Miterdale
Distance: 14km
Difficulty: Challenging
A longer route that begins in Miterdale, taking you over Whin Rigg before reaching Illgill Head. This path offers a more secluded experience with panoramic views.
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Illgill Head via Burnmoor Tarn
Distance: 12km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting from Wasdale Head, this route takes you past Burnmoor Tarn before ascending to Illgill Head, providing a mix of lake and mountain scenery.
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Parking

Wasdale Head Car Park
A popular starting point for many walks in the area, including routes to Illgill Head. It can get busy, especially in peak season.
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Miterdale Car Park
A smaller car park offering access to quieter routes, including the path to Whin Rigg and Illgill Head.
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Public Transport

Public transport options are limited in this remote area. The nearest train station is at Ravenglass, from where you can take a taxi or local bus to Wasdale or Eskdale.
Limited services

Closest Towns

Gosforth
A small village located to the west of the fells, offering basic amenities and accommodation options.
Eskdale Green
A picturesque village in the Eskdale Valley, providing a peaceful base for exploring the Southern Fells.

Pubs & Restaurants

The Wasdale Head Inn
A historic inn offering hearty meals and a selection of local ales, perfect for post-walk refreshments.
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The Boot Inn
A traditional pub with a warm atmosphere, serving classic British dishes and local brews.
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Good to know

Weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, so always be prepared for rain and wind, even in summer.
Some sections of the paths can be steep and rocky, requiring good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness.
The views from Illgill Head over Wast Water are some of the most photographed in the Lake District.
A map and compass are essential, as some paths are not well-marked.
Look out for red deer and a variety of bird species in the area.