Dove Crag

Dove Crag

Dove Crag is a 792-metre Wainwright in the Eastern Fells, often crossed on the Fairfield Horseshoe. Fell profile.

The fell has two contrasting faces: quieter slopes towards Rydal and substantial crags above Dovedale. Its southern ridge runs over High Pike and Low Pike towards Ambleside. Landscape.

The summit

The cairn stands on a rock platform at NY 37456 10435. Summit photograph.

A survey note places a rock 15 m north slightly above the cairn’s edge, while leaving open whether higher ground lies beneath the cairn. Survey record.

In clear weather, the outlook includes Windermere, Red Screes, Hart Crag and Fairfield. Summit views.

From Cow Bridge through Dovedale

Leave Cow Bridge car park at its southern end and follow the lakeside track beside Brothers Water to Hartsop Hall. Lakeside approach.

Beyond the hall, take the rising right-hand path near the larch trees towards the old lead mine; stay on the path. Continue through woodland to the handgate above Dove Falls, then past the footbridge junction into Hunsett Cove. Climb the steep pitched gully to Houndshope Cove. Continue to the col between Hart Crag and Dove Crag, then turn towards Dove Crag beside the ruined wall. Photographic ascent guide.

Return the same way: descend to the col, retrace the gully and woodland path to Hartsop Hall, then follow Brothers Water back to Cow Bridge. Return options.

This is a strenuous fell walk, with a steep descent as well as ascent. Priest’s Hole is excluded: do not leave the route to search the crags for it or rely on it for shelter. Patterdale Mountain Rescue warns that Google Maps can misplace the cave and omit suitable approaches. Local rescue guidance.

Geology

The summit bedrock is mapped as the Ordovician Borrowdale Sill Suite. Summit geology. Sills are sheets of magma that cooled within existing rocks. BGS distinguishes this intrusive suite from the volcanic deposits around it; the suite includes andesite and several other igneous rock types. BGS definition.

Access and facilities

Cow Bridge is a small car park near Hartsop. Charges apply to non-members of the National Trust; check the current signs and terms. Parking information.

Do not count on public toilets at the start. Brotherswater Inn toilets are for customers. Check transport to Cow Bridge and arrange your return before travelling. Visitor information.

Preparation

Check the mountain forecast and leave time for the descent. Carry navigation equipment you can use, a headtorch, waterproofs, warm layers, food and water. Wet stones can be slippery; cloud can obscure the route. Avoid exposed ground in strong winds or storms. Snow and ice require winter skills and equipment. Walking safety.