Bowfell Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Elevation
903m
2,962 ft
Prominence
148m
Coordinates
54.4478, -3.1662
NY244064
OS Map
89 90
Explorer: OL6N
The summit is marked by a large stone cairn and a trig point, providing an excellent vantage point for panoramic views.
Bowfell is predominantly composed of Borrowdale Volcanics, exhibiting classic volcanic structures including ash flow tuffs and lavas, which offer fascinating insights into the region's geological past.
From the summit, you can admire views of Scafell Pike, Great Gable, and the expansive Langdale Valley.
The name 'Bowfell' derives from the Old Norse, meaning 'hill with a bend', a fitting description for its unique profile.
Bowfell has long been a favourite among climbers and walkers alike, often being featured in local folklore and mountain literature.
This classic route begins at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel in Great Langdale. Follow the well-defined path up The Band, a natural ridge leading to Bowfell. As you ascend, the views of Langdale Pikes and Crinkle Crags open up. Near the top, you encounter the rocky climb to Bowfell's summit, with its distinctive flat-topped cairn and exceptional views of Scafell Pike and the surrounding fells.
Starting at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, this more adventurous route takes you along The Band before branching off to the Climbers' Traverse. The path skirts below Bowfell Buttress and leads to the dramatic Great Slab, a massive tilted sheet of rock. Navigate the rocky terrain to reach Bowfell's summit, enjoying spectacular views and a sense of remoteness.
A longer circular walk starting at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel. Ascend Bowfell via The Band, enjoy the summit, then continue along the ridge to Crinkle Crags. The route includes the famous 'Bad Step', a short scramble, which can be bypassed if needed. Descend via Three Tarns and back to the valley, taking in varied terrain and stunning views throughout.
Beginning at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, this route heads up Mickleden Valley and climbs to Rossett Pike. From there, follow the path to Esk Hause, a high mountain pass, before ascending Bowfell from the south. The approach offers a quieter alternative with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
This route starts at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, ascending Bowfell via The Band. From the summit, continue along the ridge to Esk Pike, a quieter neighbour offering stunning views of Great End and the Scafells. Descend via Esk Hause and return through Mickleden Valley. A rewarding day out for experienced walkers.
The nearest parking area is at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, which provides an accessible starting point for the Oxendale Route.
Buses from Ambleside frequently serve the area, with stops near the Old Dungeon Ghyll.
Cafes and restrooms are available at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, making it a perfect spot to refuel before and after your hike.
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Some common questions about the hills answered
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Bowfell through the maps
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 Bowfell search or of course create your own walk for Bowfell
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 Bowfell.
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.
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 Bowfell here
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Grid Ref: NY244064
![Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]](https://cdn.walkmates.com/hill-photos/hill-placeholder.jpg)
Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]
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