Castle Crag – Small Fell, Big Character
At just 290 metres (951 ft), Castle Crag is the smallest of all the Wainwrights, but it’s living proof that height isn’t everything. Tucked in the heart of Borrowdale, this little fell has a personality far larger than its stature suggests.
Our walk began along the valley, following gentle paths before the climb began in earnest. The ascent might be short, but it packs a punch, especially on the slate-covered upper slopes where old quarry workings add both interest and challenge. Twice I found myself with hands to the ground, scrambling over slate steps and loose rock – nothing too tricky, but enough to make the summit feel earned.
Wainwright himself described Castle Crag as “magnificent, the only true fell among the lower hills,” and standing at the top, it’s easy to see why. The cairn sits dramatically above the valley, with Borrowdale spread out below, Derwentwater glittering in the distance, and higher fells rising all around.
Despite its size, Castle Crag offers one of the most rewarding panoramas in the Lakes, and its mix of history, quirky terrain, and stunning views make it a must-do. Sometimes the smallest peaks leave the biggest impressions.
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