Cross Fell

Cross Fell

Cross Fell Group Walks | Join a Walk

893m Elevation
650m Prominence
England Country

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Classifications

Marilyn Sim Hewitt Nuttall High Hill of Britain

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Elevation

893m

2,930 ft

Prominence

650m

Coordinates

54.7030, -2.4867

NY687343

OS Map

91

Explorer: OL31W

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a large stone trig point, which serves as a navigation aid. There's also a rugged wind shelter made from local stone, perfect for a quick lunch break out of the wind.

Terrain & Geology

A mixture of grassy slopes and rocky outcrops with patches of boggy ground depending on rainfall.

Cross Fell is predominantly formed of limestone, with notable areas of mudstone and sandstone. Its geological history provides an interesting backdrop, giving hikers a glimpse of the earth's tectonic past.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, you can see the Lake District to the west, the North Pennines to the south, and glimpses of the Solway Firth.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cross Fell' may derive from the old English word 'cros', which means 'cross', possibly referring to a cross erected on the hill in historical times.

Historical Significance

Cross Fell has historical significance as a boundary marker and played a role in the mining industry during the 19th century.

Popular Routes

Classic Cross Fell Circular from Kirkland

Moderate

This popular route begins in the village of Kirkland, following a clear path to ascend Cross Fell via the Pennine Way. The route traverses the summit plateau before descending via Wildboar Scar, offering excellent views of the surrounding Pennine landscape.

13.5 km 5.5 hours

Cross Fell via the Pennine Way from Garrigill

Challenging

A longer but well-trodden route, this walk follows the Pennine Way from Garrigill. It offers a gradual ascent to Cross Fell, passing through moorland and enjoying panoramic views. The return can be made along the same path.

20 km 7 hours

Great Dun Fell and Cross Fell Circuit

Challenging

This circular route combines Cross Fell with neighbouring Great Dun Fell and Little Dun Fell. Starting from Kirkland, it follows the Pennine Way to Cross Fell before looping back via the radar station on Great Dun Fell. A rewarding hike with diverse terrain.

18 km 7 hours

Short Ascent from Blencarn

Moderate

A shorter and less demanding route, this walk starts in Blencarn and ascends directly to Cross Fell. It’s a straightforward route with excellent views of the Eden Valley and the Lake District fells on a clear day.

10 km 4 hours

Cross Fell and Wildboar Scar via Knock

Moderate

This scenic route starts in Knock and ascends steadily through Knock Pike to reach the summit of Cross Fell. The descent via Wildboar Scar provides expansive views of the North Pennines and surrounding countryside.

16 km 6.5 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at Kirkland, which is a small village near the start of the main walking routes.

Public Transport

Public transport options include buses to Kirkland from Penrith, although service may be limited on weekends.

Nearby Facilities

No facilities are available on the mountain itself, but Alston offers cafes, toilets, and shops for hikers before and after their trek.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Changes in weather can be rapid, with fog developing unexpectedly. Several areas can be boggy, so waterproof footwear is advisable.

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

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Cross Fell?

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

Are there other walkers around Cross Fell?

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 Cross Fell search or of course create your own walk for Cross Fell

Can I organise a walk to Cross Fell?

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 Cross Fell.

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 Cross Fell?

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 Cross Fell 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