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Bowfell

903m Elevation
148m Prominence
England Country
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Explore routes near Bowfell

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

Great Carrs Halifax Wreckage from Wrynose Pass

4.6 km ~3h Hard

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Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

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Scafell Pike via Brown Tonge and Hollow Stones

8.1 km ~4h Hard

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Tarn Hows Fast Route

4.1 km ~1h Moderate

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Route planning notes

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

The Band and Bowfell Summit

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.

11 km ~5 hours Moderate

Bowfell via the Climbers' Traverse and Great Slab

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.

10.5 km ~5.5 hours Challenging

Bowfell and Crinkle Crags Circuit

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.

14 km ~7 hours Hard

Bowfell via Rossett Pike and Esk Hause

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.

13 km ~6.5 hours Moderate

Bowfell and Esk Pike Traverse

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.

16 km ~7.5 hours Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Simm Hewitt Nuttall High Hills of Britain Submarilyn Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

903m

2,962 ft

Prominence

148m

Coordinates

54.4478, -3.1662

NY244064

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL6N

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a large stone cairn and a trig point, providing an excellent vantage point for panoramic views.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some boggy patches especially after rainfall.

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.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can admire views of Scafell Pike, Great Gable, and the expansive Langdale Valley.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Bowfell' derives from the Old Norse, meaning 'hill with a bend', a fitting description for its unique profile.

Historical Significance

Bowfell has long been a favourite among climbers and walkers alike, often being featured in local folklore and mountain literature.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking area is at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, which provides an accessible starting point for the Oxendale Route.

Public Transport

Buses from Ambleside frequently serve the area, with stops near the Old Dungeon Ghyll.

Nearby Facilities

Cafes and restrooms are available at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, making it a perfect spot to refuel before and after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of sudden weather changes, especially fog and rain, which can reduce visibility. Slippery rocks and steep paths can be tricky; sturdy footwear is a must!

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 Bowfell?

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

Are there other walkers around Bowfell?

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

Can I organise a walk to 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.

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 Bowfell?

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

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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NY244064

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