Highlight • Viewpoint
Hiking
5.0
(78)
Mountaineering
5.0
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Clough Head Summit, a prominent fell rising to 726 meters (2,382 feet) in the English Lake District, marks the northern end of the majestic Helvellyn range. Situated south of the village of Threlkeld and forming the eastern side of the tranquil St John's in the Vale valley, this viewpoint offers a dramatic landscape of craggy western slopes contrasting with gentler, grassy eastern and southern flanks. Its diverse geology, shaped by ancient volcanic activity and glacial movements, makes it a significant…
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April 28, 2021
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October 12, 2022
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Clough Head summit
4.7
(13)
68
hikers
13.3km
04:19
580m
580m
4.5
(15)
234
hikers
18.3km
06:38
1,070m
1,070m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(11)
188
hikers
17.8km
06:17
940m
940m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 720 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
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Clough Head Summit offers a range of hiking experiences. While some routes present a short but strenuous ascent, others provide a more gradual approach. The western side features steep, rocky crags and scree, which can be challenging, especially in wet conditions. Overall, it's considered an intermediate to challenging hike, depending on your chosen route and starting point.
While direct ascents can be strenuous, hikers can find more gradual approaches. The historic Old Coach Road, which passes beneath Clough Head, offers a useful track that can be incorporated into longer, less steep routes. Exploring trails from St John's in the Vale or Threlkeld allows for varied options, some of which may be more suitable for those seeking a less demanding walk.
Access to Clough Head Summit is possible from either end of the Old Coach Road or from a lane south of the village of Threlkeld. For specific trailheads, many routes start from St John's in the Vale at Wanthwaite. It's advisable to check local parking availability, especially during peak seasons, as spaces can fill up quickly.
Clough Head Summit can be enjoyed by families, but its suitability depends on the chosen route and the children's hiking experience. While the summit itself is a rewarding goal, some ascents are steep and rocky. Families might prefer routes that incorporate the Old Coach Road for a less challenging walk, or consider shorter excursions around the base of the fell.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Clough Head Summit. Much of the fell is Open Access land. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially due to livestock grazing in the area. Always follow the Countryside Code, and be prepared to put your dog on a lead when necessary.
Clough Head Summit is accessible year-round. While summer offers generally milder conditions, winter brings a unique beauty with potential snowfall, transforming the higher peaks. However, winter hiking requires appropriate gear, including warm clothing, waterproofs, and potentially ice axes or crampons for icy conditions. Weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, so always check forecasts before heading out.
At the summit, you'll find a trig pillar marking the highest point. The fell itself is known for its dramatic contrast: steep, rocky crags like Buck Castle and Wanthwaite Crags on its western side, and smooth grassy slopes elsewhere. Beneath its north face lies the lower hill of Threlkeld Knotts, and the ancient Old Coach Road passes below. The diverse geology of the area is also a significant natural feature.
Yes, there are various options for circular walks that include Clough Head Summit. Given the labyrinth of hiking trails in the area, you can combine different paths, including sections of the Old Coach Road and ascents from St John's in the Vale or Threlkeld, to create a rewarding circular route tailored to your desired length and difficulty.
Clough Head Summit offers outstanding panoramic views, particularly northwards towards Blencathra and Skiddaw, and northwest towards Keswick. While it provides a gateway to the Helvellyn range, the view directly south to Helvellyn itself is obstructed by Great Dodd. Helvellyn, being a higher peak, offers its own distinct and expansive vistas, often including a more direct view of Striding Edge and Swirral Edge.
Clough Head Summit is situated near the village of Threlkeld and the tranquil St John's in the Vale valley. These areas, along with nearby Keswick, offer a range of amenities including cafes, traditional pubs, and various accommodation options such as guesthouses, B&Bs, and hotels. It's advisable to check specific opening times and book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.