Hugill Fell (Wainwright's Summit)
Hugill Fell (Wainwright's Summit)
Highlight • Viewpoint
Hiking
5.0
(32)
Hugill Fell (Wainwright's Summit) is a cherished viewpoint and summit nestled in the heart of the English Lake District, specifically within the Far Eastern Fells of Cumbria. Immortalized by Alfred Wainwright in his guide *The Outlying Fells of Lakeland*, this prominent feature near the village of Staveley offers a rewarding experience. While the overall fell reaches 273 metres (896 feet), Wainwright's designated summit, also known as Black Crag, stands at 265 metres (869 feet) and is marked by a distinctive…
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June 8, 2020
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4.6
(16)
52
hikers
15.7km
04:47
550m
550m
Details
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Elevation 310 m
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Wednesday 11 March
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Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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Many hikers choose to start their ascent from the nearby village of Staveley. A popular option is a circular walk that combines Hugill Fell with Reston Scar, often covering around 2.8 miles (4.5 km). This route offers varied scenery and allows for easier access between the fells thanks to recently installed gates in the drystone walls.
Yes, Hugill Fell is generally considered suitable for beginner hikers. It offers a relatively moderate ascent, making it accessible for a range of fitness levels. The paths are well-trodden, and the overall distance for a typical circular route from Staveley is manageable. However, as with any fell walk, appropriate footwear and basic navigation skills are recommended.
Hugill Fell is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially due to the presence of livestock (sheep and cattle) in the surrounding fields. The area is characterized by pastoral scenery and dry stone walls, so respecting local farming practices is important for the safety of both your dog and the animals.
During winter, Hugill Fell can experience snow and ice, particularly on higher sections and shaded paths. While it's a relatively low fell, conditions can change quickly. For winter walking, it's advisable to carry appropriate gear such as waterproof and windproof layers, warm clothing, sturdy waterproof boots, and potentially microspikes or crampons if significant ice or snow is present. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.
The nearest village, Staveley, is well-served by public transport. You can reach Staveley by train, as it has its own railway station on the Windermere branch line. Additionally, bus routes connect Staveley to larger towns in the Lake District. From Staveley, the starting points for walks up Hugill Fell are within easy walking distance.
Yes, the nearby village of Staveley offers several excellent options for refreshments. Popular choices include Wilf's Cafe, known for its hearty meals and cakes, and The Eagle and Child pub, which provides a traditional Lakeland pub experience with food and drinks. Both are great places to refuel before or after your walk.
Hugill Fell, with its grassy slopes and proximity to farmland, is home to various types of wildlife. You're most likely to see common fell birds, including various species of raptors soaring overhead. Keep an eye out for sheep and cattle grazing in the fields. Smaller mammals like rabbits and stoats might also be spotted, especially during quieter times.
Hugill Fell is one of Alfred Wainwright's 'Outlying Fells,' generally considered less challenging than the higher, more rugged central fells. Its ascent is relatively moderate, making it a good introduction to fell walking. Despite its lower elevation, the views from Wainwright's Summit (Black Crag) are exceptionally panoramic, offering extensive vistas across south Lakeland and many iconic Lake District fells, often surprising visitors with their breadth for such an accessible summit.
Parking is generally available in and around the village of Staveley. There are public car parks, and some roadside parking might be available, though this can be limited, especially during peak season or busy weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a spot, particularly if you plan to start your walk from the village.
The views from Hugill Fell (Wainwright's Summit) are renowned for their extensive panoramic quality. From the cairn at Black Crag, you can see a vast sweep of the Lake District, including the Kentmere fells, Coniston fells, Crinkle Crags, Scafell Pike, Bowfell, Esk Pike, Great End, Allen Crags, and the Langdale Pikes. On exceptionally clear days, you might even spot Ingleborough in the Yorkshire Dales. The tranquility and absence of traffic noise further enhance the appreciation of this wide-ranging Lakeland scenery.
For photography, early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light, casting long shadows and enhancing the landscape's contours. These times also tend to be quieter, allowing for a more peaceful experience and fewer crowds on the summit. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, especially during school holidays.