Ill Crag

 
The stunning view from Ill Crag out towards Eskdale

The stunning view from the Ill Crag summit out towards Eskdale

 

Location (summit): NY 223 074

Getting there: Most convenient to take in during an ascent of Scafell Pike from Langdale. Also an opportunity for a stunning, remote trek along the river Esk, and a steep climb via Little Narrowcove.

Height (highest point, unmarked (2m from cairn): 935m

Prominence: 57m

Map: OL6 (Lake District South Western Area).

OS Maps API | Basic Map ZXY (EPSG:27700) | Leaflet
 
 

This often-neglected buttress lies less than 1km from the summit of England’s highest mountain, but tough terrain, its lack of classification as a Wainwright, and the fact that a detour from a main route to Scafell Pike is required, means anyone who takes the time to visit the summit will often have it to themselves, along with spectacular views of the seldom-visited Eskdale, out to Morecambe Bay.

Despite its quietness, Ill Crag is the 4th highest peak in England.

The crag is reached via a detour from the path between Scafell Pike from Esk Hause. There is no path to the cairn at the head of the buttress - like much of the route past Broad Crag, you’ll be clambering over rocks to reach your destination. This is the only option, unless you fancy a Grade 1 or Grade 3 scramble up the buttress itself.

The view over the ‘rock field’ on Ill Crag summit, a rocky, desolate landscape with several large mountains in the background, towering into the clouds

The view over the ‘rock field’ from the Ill Crag summit, back towards the path between Esk Hause and Scafell Pike

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