NY2733 : On Great Cockup

Great Cockup

526m Elevation
92m Prominence
England Country
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NY2733 : On Great Cockup

Michael Graham Photo source

Overview

Great Cockup: A Hiker’s Delight

Introduction

Nestled in the tranquil Lake District, Great Cockup is a jewel of a hill that combines accessibility with stunning vistas. While it might not take your breath away with its height, it will surely leave you with memorable views and a satisfied smile after your adventure.

Geology

Composed largely of Skiddaw slate, Great Cockup’s geological formations are a product of ancient volcanic activity. This makes the area not just gorgeous, but also an interesting place for budding geologists to explore the past.

Getting There

Parking can be found at Oughtershaw, where the trailheads mark the beginning of your journey. We do advise you watch for sheep wandering about as they seem to think they have the right of way!

Routes

With a distance of about 5 km round trip, this moderate hike means you can have your cake and eat it too – both in terms of distance and views. The main route is well-marked and easy to follow. Expect a bit of an elevation gain – your legs might grumble, but you'll manage just fine!

Summit Features

Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by a stone cairn and a trig point, perfect for that milestone photo. You might want to hold your camera steady here, the views might just make you a bit giddy!

Views

From the summit, the sight of the Northern Fells is nothing short of spectacular. On a clear day, the views stretch to Blencathra and the shimmering waters of the Solway Firth. What a way to earn your cuppa!

Hazards

As always, keep an eye out for those pesky boggy patches and rocky areas, especially after rain, to ensure you don’t take an unexpected tumble. Good footwear is key!

Nearby Summits

If you're feeling ambitious, why not continue your adventure to nearby Knott or the lofty Skiddaw? There’s always room for one more peak in your hiking repertoire!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Great Cockup is well worth the trek. With its rich geology, pleasing views, and relatively reachable summit, you’re in for a delightful outing. Just remember, when the hills are calling, you must answer – and maybe pack some biscuits too!

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Great Cockup

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

Brae Fell from Longlands Wainwright

8.8 km ~3h Moderate

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Binsey from Binsey Lodge Direct Out and Back Wainwright

2.4 km ~1h 30m Moderate

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Mungrisdale Common and Bowscale Fell from Mosedale Valley Wainwright

13.4 km ~6h Hard

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Bannerdale Crags from Mungrisdale Wainwright

6.9 km ~2h Moderate

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Route planning notes

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

From the Car Park at Oughtershaw

A straightforward and well-trodden path leading to the summit, offering delightful scenery along the way.

5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Dodd Dewey Subhump Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

526m

1,726 ft

Prominence

92m

Coordinates

54.6897, -3.1288

NY273333

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL4N

At the Summit

The summit boasts a modest stone cairn and a trig point, both excellent backdrops for those all-important summit selfies. Make sure to take in the panorama before you backtrack – you might say it’s a ‘peak’ experience!

Terrain & Geology

The terrain is primarily grassy with some rocky sections making for an adventurous but manageable hike. Be prepared for a bit of a wobble if it's wet underfoot.

Great Cockup is primarily composed of Skiddaw slate, a volcanic rock that dates back around 500 million years. This geology contributes to its sturdy, rugged feel, and the surrounding slopes often exhibit fascinating geological formations.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy uninterrupted views of the Northern Fells, Blencathra, and even the Solway Firth on clear days.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Great Cockup' is said to come from the Old Norse ‘kjokkr’, meaning ‘a hill’ or ‘mound’. So, if you’ve ever wondered why the name sounds a bit cheeky, now you know!

Historical Significance

Though not a towering giant like some of its neighbours, Great Cockup has historically drawn locals and hikers alike for its accessibility and scenic views.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at Oughtershaw, well-signposted and convenient for accessing the trailhead. Just be wary of sheep – they’re not big on sharing the road!

Public Transport

Limited public transport routes run to nearby villages, primarily serviced by local buses. The closest major transport link is Penrith Station, about 25 km away.

Nearby Facilities

While there are no facilities at the summit, Ivegill offers a small café and public toilets, perfect for a hot drink and a sit-down after your ascent.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for occasional boggy patches, especially after rain. Slips and trips can occur, so keep your wits about you. As they say, a wise hiker is a safe hiker!

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 Great Cockup?

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

Are there other walkers around Great Cockup?

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 Great Cockup search or of course create your own walk for Great Cockup

Can I organise a walk to Great Cockup?

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 Great Cockup.

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 Great Cockup?

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 Great Cockup 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

Great Cockup location map

Grid reference: NY273333

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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