NY2308 : Sea King over Esk Hause

Allen Crags

785m Elevation
61m Prominence
England Country
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NY2308 : Sea King over Esk Hause

Michael Graham Photo source

Overview

Allen Crags: A Hiker's Dream

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Allen Crags stands proudly at 786 meters, offering a perfect destination for hikers seeking both challenge and beauty.

Geology

The rocky landscape is primarily made up of slate and volcanic tuff, remnants of an ancient, volcanic past. This diverse geology adds layers of intrigue, literally and figuratively, as hikers traverse its paths.

Routes

Two main routes entice adventurers:

  • Skyline Route from Seathwaite: A round trip of 9.2 km, this moderate hike offers stunning vistas of the valleys below. It’s a delightful way to shake the cobwebs off and get your bearings.
  • From Borrowdale: This steep route covers 7.5 km and is for those who like their hikes like their tea – strong! It packs a punch but rewards climbers with heart-stopping views along the way.

Summit Features

The summit showcases a charming cairn, a grand spot for a rest or a jovial chat about the wild weather that may have suddenly appeared – typical Lake District!

Terrain

Expect a combination of rocky outcrops, paths of verdant grass, and the occasional boulder field. The footing can be tricky at times, but that just adds to the fun!

Views

From the top, gaze upon the formidable Scafell Pike and majestic Great Gable towering in the distance. The best panoramic shots are best captured in late spring to early autumn, when the air is clearer and the colours are more vibrant.

Hazards

Like many adventures in the great outdoors, keep an eye out for loose stones and sudden weather changes. Proper footwear is essential to navigate with grace, not like a baby deer on ice!

Access

Parking: Just head over to Seathwaite Farm, but get there early if you want a space.
Public Transport: Buses from Keswick can take you to Seatoller, which is a short stroll away from trailheads.
Nearby Town: The picturesque town of Keswick, teeming with life, is just a stone’s throw away.

Facilities

Post-hike, reward yourself with a visit to the Langstrath Country Inn for some well-deserved food and drink, or make use of the public facilities available in the area.

History

The name 'Allen Crags' hints at its rugged nature. Serving as inspiration for many a poet and painter, this mountain has become a significant cultural landmark in the Lake District.

So lace up those boots, grab your pack, and get ready for an adventure at Allen Crags! It’s a climb filled with views, geology, and a hearty dose of fresh air that’ll give you stories to tell and muscles to show off.

Explore routes near Allen Crags

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

View route

Scafell Pike via Brown Tongue and Hollow Stones

8.1 km ~4h Hard

View route

Bow Fell from Langdale

View route

Great Carrs Halifax Wreckage from Wrynose Pass

4.6 km ~3h Hard

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Skyline Route from Seathwaite

This scenic route starts from Seathwaite Farm and gradually ascends, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.

9.2 km ~4 hours Moderate

From Borrowdale

A more direct but steeper ascent, this route takes you straight up from Borrowdale, promising a good workout along with stunning vistas.

7.5 km ~3 hours Challenging
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Simm Hewitt Nuttall Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

785m

2,575 ft

Prominence

61m

Coordinates

54.4664, -3.1792

NY236085

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL6N

At the Summit

The summit of Allen Crags features a distinctive cairn, offering a perfect spot for a well-earned snack break and a photo op between giggles.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky outcrops and grassy slopes with some boulder fields that can be a bit of a puzzle for your footing.

Allen Crags is primarily composed of sedimentary rock formations, notably slate and volcanic tuff, typical of the Lake District's rugged landscape. The area's geology offers fascinating insights into ancient volcanic activity and sedimentation processes.

Views & Scenery

Panoramic views of the surrounding fells, including Scafell Pike and Great Gable, truly make this climb worth every step and puff.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The mountain's name is believed to originate from the Old Norse 'Krag', referring to its craggy nature, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of linguistic climbing.

Historical Significance

Allen Crags is part of the renowned Lake District National Park, which holds cultural significance for artists, writers, and nature lovers throughout the centuries.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at Seathwaite Farm, where you'll likely see more hikers than sheep. Be prepared as it can fill up quickly during peak seasons.

Public Transport

Buses run from Keswick to Seatoller, with a walk to Seathwaite, which adds extra steps to your hike – perfect for warming up those leg muscles before the main event!

Nearby Facilities

There’s the delightful 'Langstrath Country Inn' nearby for food and drink, plus public toilets in the area.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, particularly in steep areas; sudden changes in weather conditions; ensure your boots are both fashionable and functional.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Allen Crags?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Allen Crags through the maps

Are there other walkers around Allen Crags?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Allen Crags search or of course create your own walk for Allen Crags

Can I organise a walk to Allen Crags?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Allen Crags.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Allen Crags?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Allen Crags here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Allen Crags location map

Grid reference: NY236085

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