Blake Fell

Blake Fell

Blake Fell is a 572.6-metre Wainwright and Marilyn in the western Lake District. Its highest point is unmarked ground three metres east of the stone shelter, at NY 11051 19685. The recorded prominence is 163.1 metres. Summit record.

The large cairn shaped into a wind shelter marks the Wainwright top, just west of the highest ground. From here, Grasmoor and High Stile rise across the eastern skyline, while Knock Murton and Cogra Moss lie to the west. Summit photographs.

Felldyke out and back

Start at Felldyke car park, NY 084198. Follow the forestry track to Cogra Moss and continue along the reservoir’s southern shore. Beyond the water, the Donkey Trod climbs to the forestry road at the col between Knock Murton and Low Pen. Take the fence-side path uphill over Low Pen and High Pen, then through the dip above Fothergill Head onto Blake Fell’s south-east ridge. Ascent photographs.

Near the top, the summit path leaves the fence. Reach the shelter, then return along the same route: south-east ridge, High Pen, Low Pen, the forestry-road col and the Donkey Trod down to Cogra Moss. Follow the southern shoreline track back to Felldyke. Take a map to identify junctions and avoid descending onto a different ridge. Approach and path junctions.

Geology

The summit bedrock is Kirk Stile Formation, within the Skiddaw Group. Summit geology.

These are sedimentary rocks, principally dark-grey mudstones and siltstones arranged in very thin layers. The formation includes the rocks once described as Blakefell Mudstone. BGS rock description.

Access and travel

The small roadside car park at Felldyke is reached from the A5086 via Lamplugh. Leave entrances clear and follow local signs. Forestry England lists Cogra Moss as open from dawn to dusk and prohibits barbecues, campfires and stoves in the forest. Visitor information.

Forestry England identifies St Michael’s Church in Lamplugh as the bus stop, about 1.5 kilometres from Felldyke along minor roads. Check current services and the return timetable before relying on this approach. Travel information.

Before setting out

Check the mountain forecast and allow time for the full return, especially with short winter daylight. Carry a map and compass, warm and waterproof clothing, food, water and a headtorch. Leave your route and expected return time with someone, stay together and turn back if conditions deteriorate. In an emergency call 999 or 112, ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Mountain safety.