NY2215 : Sheep grazing near Dale Head summit

Dale Head

754m Elevation
398m Prominence
England Country
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NY2215 : Sheep grazing near Dale Head summit

Graham Robson Photo source

Explore routes near Dale Head

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

Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

View route

Scafell Pike via Brown Tonge and Hollow Stones

8.1 km ~4h Hard

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Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

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Striding Edge, Helvellyn and Catstye Cam

12 km ~6h 30m Hard

View route

Route planning notes

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

The Newlands Valley Route

A picturesque route beginning from the Newlands Valley, taking you through lush pastures and ascending steadily toward the summit with stunning views along the way.

9.5 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Borrowdale Route

Starting from Borrowdale, this route meanders through scenic woods before making its way up to the summit, offering a blend of forested paths and open hillside.

10.2 km ~5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Simm Hewitt Nuttall Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

754m

2,474 ft

Prominence

398m

Coordinates

54.5272, -3.2023

NY222153

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL4S

At the Summit

The summit of Dale Head features a prominent cairn and a trig point, perfect for the obligatory photo op to prove you made it to the top!

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some rough patches it can get boggy after rain so sturdy footwear is a must or risk having your shoes suck into the ground like quicksand.

Dale Head is primarily composed of volcanic rocks, specifically andesite, which was formed from ancient lava flows. The surrounding landscape reflects glacial features from the last Ice Age, creating a rugged terrain that is both beautiful and intriguing.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you'll be greeted with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks like the impressive Catbells and the stunning Borrowdale Valley. On a clear day, you might even spot the Solway Firth.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Dale Head comes from the Old Norse word 'dalr' meaning 'valley', combined with 'head' referring to the summit, hence 'the head of the valley'.

Historical Significance

Dale Head has been a favourite among hiking enthusiasts for generations, partly due to its accessible routes and the spectacular views it provides, making it a staple in Lake District trekking.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Free parking is available at the Newlands Valley car park, which is well signposted. Alternatively, there are several lay-bys along the A1323 route.

Public Transport

The nearest bus services can be accessed from Keswick, which offers frequent connections to the surrounding area.

Nearby Facilities

There are several cafes and pubs in Keswick, and public toilets are conveniently located at the main car parks.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep slopes leading to the summit can be treacherous in wet conditions. Watch your footing, especially on loose rock and muddy patches. Weather can change quickly in the Lake District, so be prepared.

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 Dale Head?

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

Are there other walkers around Dale Head?

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 Dale Head search or of course create your own walk for Dale Head

Can I organise a walk to Dale Head?

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 Dale Head.

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 Dale Head?

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 Dale Head 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

Dale Head location map

Grid reference: NY222153

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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