Clough Head Summit

With huge views across to Blencathra and Skiddaw, hiking up Clough Head is a gateway to the Dodd fells and the wonderful Helvellyn range. This Wainwright is seen best from Threlkeld, whom it shows its abrupt, craggy north face. Formed by volcanic eruptions and glacial movements, geologists hold the fell and region in high importance. 

You can hike up Clough Head directly, making it a short but strenuous excursion. If you’re interested in longer hikes, the 2,779-foot (847 m) summit makes for a good viewpoint before setting off for the Dodd fells: Great Dodd, Watson’s Dodd and Stybarrow Dodd. Thanks to the labyrinth of hiking trails in the area, you can adjust your walk depending on the weather and your energy with ease. 

Rambling about Helvellyn’s northern reaches

Clough Head’s northern, steep scree slope marks the northern limit of the Helvellyn range and is reachable by numerous trails. Starting in St John’s in the Vale at Wanthwaite offers several trails and you can meander around the fell’s northern base, along the historic Old Coach Road. Open Access land, there’s plenty of adventuring to be had up here. 

Reaching Clough Head’s summit, you’ll find a trig point and impressive views north to Blencathra. Skiddaw and Keswick lie to the north west while your view south of Helvellyn is blocked by Great Dodd. A grassy, rolling summit, It’s worth roaming around to enjoy views in every direction. 

If descending to St John’s in the Vale via Red Screes, take care with your footing, particularly in wet weather. Clough Head is hikable throughout the year and experiences changeable weather, like all of Lakeland. Winter sometimes brings snowfall and transforms the higher nearby peaks, making for even greater views.