Bannerdale Crags

Bannerdale Crags

Bannerdale Crags rises to 684.1 metres between Blencathra and Bowscale Fell in the Northern Fells. Its summit area has two distinct landmarks: the highest rock and the lower cairn used as the Wainwright top.

Summit and views

The high point is a rock at NY 33530 29026, three metres northeast of a pile of stones. Wainwright’s cairn stands about 100 metres farther northeast, at NY 33612 29076. Visit both if you are collecting the hill’s highest point as well as its Wainwright top. Summit record.

From the upper fell, Blencathra stands to the southwest, with Skiddaw farther away. Looking north from the Wainwright cairn takes in the curving crags and Bowscale Fell. Bannerdale Crags appears in Book Five, The Northern Fells, of Wainwright’s pictorial guides. Fell profile.

Mungrisdale and Souther Fell circuit

The full circuit covers about 12.2 km and 636 metres of ascent; allow around 5½ hours.

From Mungrisdale, walk west with the Glenderamackin on your left. Keep right at NY356302, climb across The Tongue’s flank, then turn left at NY334301 towards Bannerdale Crags. Go west to the col at NY327291 and descend southeast beside the river’s north bank. Cross the wide footbridge, climb to the col between Scales and Souther Fells, then turn half-left up Souther Fell. Follow its ridge over the summit and descend northeast. Near the foot, take the signed right turn around private property, keeping the intake wall on your left. At NY363297, turn left along the lane to Mungrisdale. Sharp Edge is not part of this walk. Full route.

Carry a detailed map and use it to identify the junctions. Keep well back from crag edges, especially in cloud or strong wind.

Geology

The fell’s bedrock belongs to the Kirk Stile Formation within the Skiddaw Group. These sedimentary rocks include dark-grey mudstone and siltstone in fine layers, formed in a marine setting during the Ordovician. Fell geology and formation details.

Access and preparation

There is parking opposite Mungrisdale village hall. Follow the signs and payment instructions on arrival, and keep gates, entrances and passing places clear. Starting-point information.

For a car-free visit, plan the connection to Mungrisdale as well as the journey to the area. Check current timetables and the last return before travelling.

Expect grassy fell paths and some wet ground around the upper slopes. Terrain notes.

Check the mountain forecast, carry food, water and suitable clothing, and leave your route with someone. Allow enough daylight for the return. Turn back if rising water, wind or visibility makes progress doubtful. Snow and ice require winter skills and equipment. Walking safety.