Great Calva is a

prominent summit right in the centre of the Northern Lake District Fells. Away

from the honeypots, this is a peaceful summit that enjoys a sense of

remoteness, as well as a view that takes some beating.

Look at a map of

Lakeland and you might notice a long rift that runs straight through the

national park. This rift is adorned by Thirlmere and Grasmere, is utilised by

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Lake District National Park

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Location: Underskiddaw, Allerdale, Cumbria, North West England, England, United Kingdom

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Tips

Alex Foxfield

April 14, 2020

Hiking

Great Calva rises in isolation in the wild heart of the Lakeland's quiet Northern Fells. Its 2,260 feet (690 m) high perch gives it magnificent views down the defile between the Skiddaw and Blencathra massifs all the way along Thirlmere to Grasmere. There are few spots better positioned to think on the massive role glaciation played in the formation of the Lake District landscape.

At the southern foot of the fell is Skiddaw House, a unique hostel around the 'Back o'Skiddaw'. It is said to be the most remote lodging in England, 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from the nearest road.

David Howells

October 3, 2022

Hiking

Just a beautiful spot with its imposing cairn and commanding views. This was my last top of the day before the long decent down the valley and the long walk out to Mosedale. Great location in half decent weather.

Adam Brown

July 27, 2025

Hiking

Out of all the Northern Fells. This was the most painstaking to get to. I won't be back in a hurry to this summit. Not sure if it was the …

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Best Hikes to Great Calva

5.0

(11)

163

hikers

1. High Pike Summit – Knott Summit Cairn loop from Carrock Fell

20.6km

06:37

780m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

4.8

(10)

102

hikers

2. Knott Summit Cairn – Great Calva loop from Round Knott

11.0km

03:42

520m

530m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

(1)

hikers

3. Skiddaw Summit – Blencathra Summit loop from Keswick

28.9km

10:57

1,670m

1,660m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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Hard

Details

Informations

Elevation 700 m

Good to know

Family Friendly

yes

Wheelchair access

Dog Friendly

yes

Weather

Today

Friday 30 January

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Location: Underskiddaw, Allerdale, Cumbria, North West England, England, United Kingdom

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Knott Summit Cairn

Brae Fell Summit Cairn

Blencathra Summit

Castlerigg Stone Circle

Carl Side

Caldew Trail

Bowscale Fell Summit

Carrock Fell Summit

Scales Beck Waterfall and Stone Steps

Miton Hill

Threlkeld to Keswick Railway Path

Great Calva

1. High Pike Summit – Knott Summit Cairn loop from Carrock Fell

2. Knott Summit Cairn – Great Calva loop from Round Knott

3. Skiddaw Summit – Blencathra Summit loop from Keswick

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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