NY2126 : On Barf

Barf

469m Elevation
38m Prominence
England Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NY2126 : On Barf

Michael Graham Photo source

Explore routes near Barf

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

Binsey from Binsey Lodge Direct Out and Back Wainwright

2.4 km ~1h 30m Moderate

View route

Brae Fell from Longlands Wainwright

8.8 km ~3h Moderate

View route

Mungrisdale Common and Bowscale Fell from Mosedale Valley Wainwright

13.4 km ~6h Hard

View route

Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

View route

Route planning notes

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

The Bishop's Stone Route

This classic route starts near the Swan Hotel and ascends via the prominent Bishop's Stone. The path is steep but offers stunning views over Bassenthwaite Lake and the surrounding fells. The route is well-defined and includes a short scramble near the summit. Descend the same way or via forest trails to the south.

4.8 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Barf via Whinlatter Forest Circular

This longer circular route starts at the Whinlatter Forest Visitor Centre. It takes you through forest trails before ascending Barf from the south. The route provides a less steep ascent compared to the Bishop's Stone route and offers panoramic views from the summit. Return through the forest trails to complete the loop.

8.5 km ~4 hours Moderate

Barf and Lord's Seat Traverse

This route combines Barf with Lord's Seat, offering a rewarding ridge walk. Starting near Powter How car park, ascend Barf first via the steep eastern approach. From the summit, head west to Lord's Seat and enjoy the expansive views. Descend via forest trails to complete the loop.

7.2 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Bassenthwaite Lake Approach

This route begins near the northwestern shores of Bassenthwaite Lake. Follow paths that lead to Barf's eastern flank and ascend gradually. This approach is less direct but offers a quieter and more scenic route through woodland and open fellside. Descend via the same path.

6 km ~3 hours Moderate

Barf via Beckstones Gill

For experienced walkers, this challenging route ascends Barf via Beckstones Gill. Starting near the Swan Hotel, follow the gill upwards, requiring some scrambling over rocky terrain. The route is steep and requires good navigation skills but rewards with a direct and adventurous ascent. Descend via forest trails.

5.5 km ~3 hours Hard
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.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

400-499m hill Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

469m

1,539 ft

Prominence

38m

Coordinates

54.6297, -3.2181

NY214267

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL4S

At the Summit

The summit features a proud trig point, a stone cairn, and panoramic views that make you feel like the king of the hill.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with steep slopes and some boggy sections along the lower trails.

Barf is primarily composed of volcanic rocks such as 'Andesite', a type of lava that can form from explosive eruptions. The rugged terrain exhibits features like crags and screes, making it a geological marvel.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the northern fells, Bassenthwaite Lake, and even glimpses of Skiddaw on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Barf' is thought to derive from the Old Norse word 'barfi', meaning 'bare hill'.

Historical Significance

Barf has been a popular ascent for hikers for generations, contributing to the rich, social hiking culture of the Lake District.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Fisherground Car Park - ample space available, but it can get busy during peak season.

Public Transport

Bus service from Keswick to the nearby village of Thornthwaite, with a short walk to the trailhead.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities are in Keswick, including cafes, shops, and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep sections that may be slippery in wet conditions. Also, be mindful of sudden weather changes peculiar to the Lake District.

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 Barf?

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

Are there other walkers around Barf?

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 Barf search or of course create your own walk for Barf

Can I organise a walk to Barf?

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 Barf.

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 Barf?

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 Barf 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

Barf location map

Grid reference: NY214267

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Grisedale Pike

790m

Crag Hill [Eel Crag]

839m

 Skiddaw

Skiddaw

930m

Grasmoor

852m

Fleetwith Pike

649m
See 5 more nearby hills