Hartsop Above How [Gill Crag - Hartsop Above How]

Hartsop above How

Hartsop above How reaches 586.1 metres in the Eastern Fells. Hill record.

Its long ridge divides Deepdale from Dovedale, with Hart Crag rising beyond it. Although part of Hart Crag’s northeastern ridge, it has its own chapter in Wainwright’s Book One, The Eastern Fells. Landscape and walking history.

Finding the summit

The highest knoll is at NY 38318 12003. About 240 metres northeast, an embedded rock at NY 38540 12105 probably marks Wainwright’s northeastern summit. The lower knoll should not be mistaken for the highest ground. Summit details.

Dove Crag, Hart Crag and Fairfield dominate the outlook at the head of the valleys, with St Sunday Crag across Deepdale. Photographic views.

From Bridgend and back

Start at Bridgend, NY 399 144. Take the track into Deepdale Park, pass the barn and follow the path briefly through Low Wood. Leave by the stile and climb beside the ridge wall. Cross the wall stile onto open fell. Bypass the steeper rocks on the right, then follow the ridge over Hoggill Brow to the summit. Ascent photographs.

Where the wall drops away into Dovedale, keep to the ridge path. Its steep flanks and rough ground deserve care, particularly when wet. Ridge terrain.

Turn back at the summit and retrace the ridge, using the same rocky bypass. Pass the ladder-stile turn towards Cow Bridge without taking it. Cross the Deepdale Park boundary stile, descend towards the trees and follow the gates and waymarked field path to the track back to Bridgend. Descent to Bridgend.

The onward ridge to Hart Crag adds scree or scrambling and is outside this out-and-back route. Hart Crag ridge conditions.

Geology

The summit bedrock is the Blake Brow Breccia Member, within the Deepdale Sandstone Formation and Borrowdale Volcanic Group. Its breccia and pebbly sandstone contain reworked volcanic fragments: sedimentary deposits within a volcanic succession. Summit geology; BGS rock description.

Access and preparation

Bridgend has a small roadside parking area beside the A592. Check signs and restrictions on arrival, keep entrances clear and leave bus access unobstructed. Starting point.

For public transport, check current services to Bridgend and the last return before travelling. Plan any connection to the start separately.

Carry water, food, suitable clothing and navigation equipment you can use. Check the mountain forecast and leave your route with someone. Allow daylight for the descent; avoid exposed ground in strong winds or storms. Snow and ice require winter skills and equipment. Walking safety.