NY1920 : Watching another Walker go past

Crag Hill [Eel Crag]

839m Elevation
117m Prominence
England Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NY1920 : Watching another Walker go past

Iain Lees Photo source

Overview

Crag Hill [Eel Crag]

Overview

Crag Hill, affectionately known to some as Eel Crag, stands tall at 839 meters in the majestic Lake District, offering intrepid hikers a challenging but rewarding ascent. Known for its rugged beauty, this fell is both a feast for the eyes and a workout for the legs.

Geology

The mountain is predominantly volcanic in nature, formed from ancient lava flows. Its craggy edges and unique formations tell a tale of geological history that harks back millions of years. Remember, this is one craggy customer!

Routes

The Grisedale Pike Route is a top choice for those seeking a moderate hike. Starting from Braithwaite, this route traverses Grisedale Pike before reaching Crag Hill, covering about 10.5 km in roughly 4.5 hours.

For the adventurous at heart, the Coledale Horseshoe offers a circular trek that takes in several summits, including Crag Hill. This challenging route stretches approximately 13 km, requiring around 6 hours to complete. Pack your snacks and stamina; you’ll need them!

Summit Features

The summit boasts a sizeable cairn, a traditional marker made of stones piled high, alongside a trig point—perfect for that Instagram shot of triumph!

Terrain Type

Expect a mix of rocky paths with areas of soft grass and the occasional bog. Proper footwear is recommended unless you fancy a mud bath!

Views

Once at the top, you’ll be treated to views that will have you reaching for your camera. Notable landmarks include the majestic Skiddaw and the serene Derwentwater. Late spring and early autumn tend to provide the clearest skies, allowing you to soak in the stunning vistas at their best.

Hazards

As with any adventure in the hills, be mindful of changing weather conditions. Visibility can plummet, and paths may become slippery. Choose your footwear wisely unless you're keen to embrace the slip-and-slide experience!

Nearby Summits

If your legs are still buzzing for more, consider tackling nearby Grisedale Pike or Hopegill Head. Both offer their own unique challenges and views; your hiking boots may just thank you!

Access

Nearest parking can be found at the public car park in Braithwaite, just a hop away from the trailhead. Public transport from Keswick is available, making this adventure accessible without a car. And if you’re in need of a post-hike pint or slice of cake, Braithwaite has several delightful cafes and pubs to recharge your batteries.

Facilities

Braithwaite offers a selection of facilities, including cafes and public toilets. Don’t forget to take a well-deserved break before or after your hike!

History

The name 'Crag Hill' succinctly captures its steep nature, while 'Eel Crag' adds a splash of whimsy—though for the life of us, no one seems to have spotted any eels! This mountain has been part of the local walking community's fabric for decades, celebrated and etched in Wainwright's guides.

Crag Hill is not just a climb; it’s an experience wrapped in natural beauty and historical significance. Lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and hit the trails!

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Crag Hill [Eel Crag]

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

Whinlatter dark skies walk

View route

Whinlatter dark skies walk

View route

Derwentwater Walk: full lakeside circuit from Keswick

15.9 km ~5h Moderate

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.

Coledale Round via Crag Hill

This classic route starts at Braithwaite and follows the Coledale Beck before ascending the steep path to Grisedale Pike. From there, the route continues over Hobcarton Crag and onto Crag Hill [Eel Crag]. Descend via Sail and Outerside, completing the loop back to Braithwaite.

13.5 km ~6 hours Hard

Crag Hill via Sail Pass

Start at the parking area near Braithwaite and follow the path up to Sail Pass. From here, take the ridge route up to Crag Hill [Eel Crag]. Return via the same route or descend towards Outerside for a slight variation.

9 km ~4 hours Moderate

Crag Hill and Grasmoor Traverse

Begin at Lanthwaite Green and ascend the steep slopes of Grasmoor. Continue along the ridge to reach Crag Hill [Eel Crag] before descending via Sail and heading back to the starting point.

10.5 km ~5 hours Hard

Crag Hill via Addacombe Hole

Starting from Braithwaite, follow the path up Coledale Beck towards Addacombe Hole. From here, ascend the southern ridge to reach Crag Hill [Eel Crag]. Descend via Sail Pass for a satisfying circular route.

8.5 km ~4 hours Moderate

Crag Hill and Wandope Circular

Start at the Rannerdale parking area and ascend Wandope first before heading to Crag Hill [Eel Crag]. Descend via Lad Hows and return to the starting point for a scenic loop.

11 km ~4.5 hours Moderate
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

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

Elevation

839m

2,753 ft

Prominence

117m

Coordinates

54.5718, -3.2502

NY192203

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL4S

At the Summit

The summit features a large cairn and offers a trig point for those photo opportunities as proof of your achievement.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky paths interspersed with sections of grass and some boggy areas so be prepared for a bit of a splash!

Primarily composed of volcanic rock, Crag Hill showcases the rugged beauty typical of the Lake District's geological history, formed from ancient lava flows and tephra deposits.

Views & Scenery

Breathtaking views of the surrounding fells including Skiddaw and the Helvellyn range, plus a cheeky glimpse of Derwentwater.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name ‘Crag Hill’ is quite self-explanatory, reflecting its steep, craggy profile, whilst ‘Eel Crag’ is thought to relate to local folklore, but it’s not known for any slippery friends!

Historical Significance

Crag Hill has been a well-trodden path for walkers for generations, celebrated in Alfred Wainwright's iconic guides to the region.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the public car park in Braithwaite, which is just a short walk from the trailhead.

Public Transport

Regular bus services operate from Keswick to Braithwaite, making it accessible for those relying on public transport.

Nearby Facilities

Braithwaite has several pubs and cafes, and a public toilet near the village centre.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Weather can change quickly, leading to poor visibility; muddy paths can be treacherous; and always be wary of loose rocks in the ascent.

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 Crag Hill [Eel Crag]?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Crag Hill [Eel Crag] through the maps

Are there other walkers around Crag Hill [Eel Crag]?

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 Crag Hill [Eel Crag] search or of course create your own walk for Crag Hill [Eel Crag]

Can I organise a walk to Crag Hill [Eel Crag]?

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 Crag Hill [Eel Crag].

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 Crag Hill [Eel Crag]?

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 Crag Hill [Eel Crag] 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

Crag Hill [Eel Crag] location map

Grid reference: NY192203

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Grisedale Pike

790m

Grasmoor

852m

Fleetwith Pike

649m

High Stile [Grey Crag - High Stile]

806m

 Pillar

Pillar

892m
See 5 more nearby hills