The Eastern Fells

St Sunday Crag

841m | 2759ft

St Sunday Crag is a fell in the English Lake District, part of the Fairfield group in the Eastern Fells. It is a prominent feature in the Patterdale skyline, with a distinctive rounded shape.

Popular Routes

St Sunday Crag via Deepdale Hause
Distance: 16km
Difficulty: Challenging
Starting from Patterdale, this route ascends through the scenic Grisedale Valley, passing Ruthwaite Lodge and reaching Grisedale Tarn. From the tarn, the path climbs to Deepdale Hause before ascending to the summit of St Sunday Crag. The descent follows the ridge over Birks and returns to Patterdale.
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St Sunday Crag via Arnison Crag and Birks
Distance: 14.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
This circular route begins in Patterdale, ascending Arnison Crag and continuing over Birks to reach the summit of St Sunday Crag. The return journey descends via the Grisedale Valley, offering varied landscapes and excellent views of Ullswater.
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St Sunday Crag via Pinnacle Ridge
Distance: 12km
Difficulty: Very Challenging
For experienced scramblers, this route approaches St Sunday Crag via the Grade 3 scramble of Pinnacle Ridge. Starting from Patterdale, the path follows the Grisedale Valley before ascending to the base of Pinnacle Ridge. After completing the scramble, the route continues to the summit and descends via Birks.
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Parking

Patterdale Hotel Car Park
A pay-and-display car park located at the Patterdale Hotel. Spaces can fill up quickly during weekends and holidays.
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Patterdale Primary School Parking
Limited free parking available outside Patterdale Primary School. Please ensure not to block access.
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Glenridding Car Park
A larger pay-and-display car park located in nearby Glenridding, approximately 1 mile from Patterdale.
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Public Transport

Regular bus services connect Penrith railway station to Patterdale and Glenridding, providing access to routes up St Sunday Crag.
Check local bus schedules for the most current information.

Closest Towns

Patterdale
A small village nestled at the southern end of Ullswater, serving as a common starting point for ascents of St Sunday Crag.
Glenridding
Located just north of Patterdale, Glenridding offers additional amenities and serves as an alternative base for exploring the Eastern Fells.
Penrith
A larger market town approximately 15 miles away, providing railway connections and a wider range of services.

Pubs & Restaurants

The White Lion Inn
A traditional pub offering hearty meals and a selection of local ales, perfect for pre- or post-hike refreshments.
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The Place Fell Inn
Located within the Patterdale Hotel, this bar serves a variety of drinks and meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
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The Brotherswater Inn
Situated about a mile south of Patterdale, this inn offers a cozy setting with an open fire and serves traditional British dishes.
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Good to know

Weather conditions on St Sunday Crag can change rapidly. Always check the forecast before your hike and be prepared for varying conditions.
Routes involving Pinnacle Ridge require scrambling experience and should only be attempted by those with appropriate skills and in good weather conditions.
Ensure you have appropriate footwear, clothing, and navigation equipment. Mobile phone coverage can be unreliable on the fells.
Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time, especially if hiking alone.