NY4021 : From the trig point

Gowbarrow Fell

481m Elevation
100m Prominence
England Country
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NY4021 : From the trig point

DS Pugh Photo source

Explore routes near Gowbarrow Fell

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

Striding Edge, Helvellyn and Catstye Cam

12 km ~6h 30m Hard

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Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

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Bannerdale Crags from Mungrisdale Wainwright

6.9 km ~2h Moderate

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Mungrisdale Common and Bowscale Fell from Mosedale Valley Wainwright

13.4 km ~6h Hard

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Route planning notes

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

Aira Force to Gowbarrow Fell

This moderately steep route begins at the picturesque Aira Force waterfall and takes you through lush woods before ascending towards the summit, offering a rewarding view at the end.

4.5 km ~2 hours Moderate

Gowbarrow Park Circular

A lovely circular walk that encompasses Gowbarrow Park, providing a slightly gentler approach to the summit, with plenty of scenic spots along the way.

3.5 km ~1.5 hours Easy
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump 400-499m hill

Elevation

481m

1,579 ft

Prominence

100m

Coordinates

54.5872, -2.9187

NY407217

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a large trig point and offers a stone cairn nearby where you can catch your breath and enjoy the views like a true conquering hero.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy and rocky with occasional boggy patches near the base.

Gowbarrow Fell is primarily composed of volcanic rock, specifically andesite, which is characteristic of the Lake District's geological history. The dramatic landscape of the fell results from the erosion of these ancient volcanic formations.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Ullswater, the Helvellyn range, and, on a clear day, the distant peaks of the Yorkshire Dales.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Gowbarrow' is thought to derive from 'Gabra', an ancient name likely referring to a hill or mound.

Historical Significance

The fell has been appreciated for centuries for its scenic beauty and has inspired poets and artists through the ages, capturing the essence of the Lake District.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is parking available at the Aira Force car park, which can get busy during peak season. It's a pay-and-display car park, so bring some coinage with you!

Public Transport

Regular buses run from Penrith to Glenridding, and the bus stop is just a short walk from Aira Force. Get ready to stretch your legs before the hike.

Nearby Facilities

There are toilets available at Aira Force car park, and if you're lucky, you might find a café nearby to enjoy a warm cuppa post-hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of slippery paths, especially after rain; those rocky sections can be sly and treacherous.

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 Gowbarrow Fell?

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

Are there other walkers around Gowbarrow 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 Gowbarrow Fell search or of course create your own walk for Gowbarrow Fell

Can I organise a walk to Gowbarrow 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 Gowbarrow 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 Gowbarrow 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 Gowbarrow 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

Location

Gowbarrow Fell location map

Grid reference: NY407217

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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