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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Best Hikes to Great Calva

5.0

(11)

151

hikers

1. High Pike Summit – Knott Summit Cairn loop from Mungrisdale

20.6km

06:37

780m

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

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5.0

(1)

hikers

2. Skiddaw Summit – Blencathra Summit loop from Keswick

28.6km

10:52

1,660m

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

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4.9

(7)

hikers

3. Dash Falls – Great Calva loop from Bassenthwaite

10.9km

03:40

470m

Expert hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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Tips

Alex Foxfield

April 14, 2020

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

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

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 specific route I was following. But there is a wide river to cross which I image in lower rain fall. Would be easier to cross, ha I g the stones/rocks visible. However, if it's raining or there has been a lot of rain. The river is about shin hight and in parts fast flowing. We had to carry the dog in arms to cross. Afyer that, there is a section of roughage to follow which was very muddy. Before starting the steep, grassy acent to the summit. Perhaps approaching from a different direction would be better. But again, a lot of work for not the best views, in my opinion.

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Details

Informations

Elevation 700 m

Good to know

Family Friendly

yes

Wheelchair access

Dog Friendly

yes

Weather

Today

Tuesday 28 October

8°C

5°C

70 %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h

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See hikes here

Take Me There

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

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Knott Summit Cairn

Blencathra Summit

Brae Fell Summit Cairn

Carl Side

Castlerigg Stone Circle

Caldew Trail

Bowscale Fell Summit

Carrock Fell Summit

Miton Hill

Blease Fell

Threlkeld to Keswick Railway Path

Rawson's Bridge on the Keswick Cycle Path

Great Calva

1. High Pike Summit – Knott Summit Cairn loop from Mungrisdale

2. Skiddaw Summit – Blencathra Summit loop from Keswick

3. Dash Falls – Great Calva loop from Bassenthwaite

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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