Bowfell

Hikes to Bowfell takes you to one of the greatest of all the Lakeland peaks. Rising imperiously above the valleys of Great Langdale and Eskdale, it is a magnificent fell that is set in the very mountainous heart of Lakeland. Conspicuous and alluring for miles around, as soon as you see it you’ll want to be up amongst the summit rocks.

Bowfell’s panorama is extensive in all directions, helped by the manner of its lofty summit pyramid. The broad Helvellyn range is seen in its entirety, whilst the rocky fortifications of the Langdale Pikes look magnificent. However, the cherry on the cake is the view to the west. The craggy fist of Scafell’s East Buttress faces off against the igneous cathedral of Scafell Pike, perhaps the finest mountain scene in all of England.

Exploring dramatic crags and sumptuous fells

There are myriad walking routes to Bowfell. Amongst the crags that populate the mountain’s north-eastern side are exciting scrambles that take in some awesome rock scenery. Near its summit is the Great Slab, a titled sheet of rock nestled amongst bristling crags. It’s a dramatic place to explore.

Longer routes on the mountain are spectacular. It’s fairly straightforward to link Bowfell with the delights of Crinkle Crags to the south and Esk Pike to the north, both maintaining their parent peak’s stunning situation above beautiful Eskdale. Nestled below Bowfell’s northern summit is Angle Tarn, a great spot for wild camping and from which you could launch all manner of expeditions.

Great Langdale has accommodation options aplenty, including historic inns and charming campsites. Approaches from both Eskdale and the Langstrath branch of Borrowdale are achievable if you are up for a very strenuous challenge. In full winter conditions, Bowfell becomes the realm of equipped mountaineers only.