Gavel Fell

Gavel Fell

Gavel Fell rises to 524.3 metres in the western Lake District. Its unmarked high point is at NY 11657 18499. The Wainwright cairn at NY 11698 18384 is 0.2 metres lower. Summit record.

From the cairn, the High Stile ridge stretches southeast, with Pillar appearing above Starling Dodd. Hen Comb and Robinson stand to the left. Summit panorama.

The cairn is south of the fence junction; the true summit lies north of it. Take care to distinguish the two when navigating. Summit locations.

Cross Rigg out and back

About 7.7 km return to the cairn, estimated from twice Wainwright Routes’ 2.4-mile ascent. Route measurements.

At Cross Rigg, NY087182, take the gate opposite the junction. Follow the mine road through the fence-corner gate, then the grassy track to the intake-wall gate, avoiding the road descending southeast towards mine shafts. Turn left around northern Godworth. Follow the faint path over wet ground above Hare Gill and traverse High Pen’s slopes. Branch right to Fothergill Head, then follow the northwest-ridge fence uphill to the Wainwright cairn. Ascent guide.

Retrace the northwest ridge to Fothergill Head and High Pen’s slopes, then pass north of Godworth to the intake gate. Recross the grassy depression to the fence-corner gate and follow the mine road west to Cross Rigg, away from mine workings. Route landmarks.

Intermittent paths and rough ground around Godworth make confident navigation essential in mist. Walking conditions.

Verge parking is reported at Cross Rigg on the Lamplugh–Ennerdale road, NY08711820. Check signs and keep the junction and gates clear. Starting point.

Beneath your feet

The summit area is underlain by the Kirk Stile Formation, part of the Skiddaw Group. Local geology.

These sedimentary rocks include dark-grey mudstone and siltstone laid down in thin beds, with some coarser sandstone. BGS formation description.

Before you set out

Check mapped access land, rights of way and temporary restrictions before walking. Respect local signs and any closures. Keep dogs under close control around other path users and livestock. National Park access guidance.

Check a mountain forecast, leave your route and expected return time with someone, and allow enough daylight for the descent. Carry a map and compass, headtorch, suitable footwear, warm layers, food and water. Keep the group together and turn back if conditions worsen. In an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Mountain Rescue advice.