The Southern Fells

Scafell Pike

978m | 3209ft

Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England, at an elevation of 978 metres above sea level. It is located in the Lake District National Park, in Cumbria, and is part of the Southern Fells.

Popular Routes

Wasdale Head Route
Distance: 10km
Difficulty: Moderate
The most popular and direct route to the summit of Scafell Pike, starting from Wasdale Head. It offers stunning views of Wast Water and the surrounding fells.
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Seathwaite Route
Distance: 14km
Difficulty: Challenging
This route starts from Seathwaite in Borrowdale and takes you through the Corridor Route, offering dramatic views and a more varied terrain.
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Eskdale Route
Distance: 16km
Difficulty: Difficult
A less frequented path starting from Eskdale, offering a more remote and peaceful ascent with beautiful views of the Eskdale Valley.
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Parking

Wasdale Head Car Park
A large car park at the start of the Wasdale Head route, often busy during peak times.
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Seathwaite Farm Parking
Limited roadside parking available near Seathwaite Farm, often fills up quickly.
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Eskdale Green Car Park
A small car park in Eskdale Green, ideal for those taking the Eskdale route.
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Public Transport

Buses run to nearby towns such as Keswick and Ambleside, from where you can take a taxi or local bus to the starting points.
Limited public transport options directly to Wasdale Head.

Closest Towns

Keswick
A bustling market town in the Lake District, offering a range of accommodation, shops, and eateries.
Ambleside
A popular town with plenty of outdoor shops, cafes, and a good base for exploring the Southern Fells.
Broughton-in-Furness
A charming village with a selection of pubs and shops, located near the southern edge of the Lake District.

Pubs & Restaurants

The Wasdale Head Inn
A traditional inn offering hearty meals and a selection of local ales, perfect for post-walk refreshments.
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The Scafell Hotel
Located in Borrowdale, this hotel offers a cozy bar and restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere.
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The Woolpack Inn
A popular pub in Eskdale, known for its friendly service and delicious food.
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Good to know

Weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, so be prepared for rain and wind even in summer.
The paths can be rocky and uneven, requiring good footwear and navigation skills.
Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England, attracting many walkers, especially in summer.
Bring a map and compass, as GPS signals can be unreliable in the valleys.
Look out for the diverse wildlife, including red deer and various bird species.