NY4112 : The view north from Hartsop Dodd

Hartsop Dodd

619m Elevation
23m Prominence
England Country
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NY4112 : The view north from Hartsop Dodd

Graham Robson Photo source

Overview

Overview

Hartsop Dodd is a delightful mountain located in the heart of the Lake District, standing proudly at an elevation of 806 meters. While it may not be the tallest peak, it offers a unique blend of scenic routes and breathtaking views that make it a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts.

Geography and Geology

Composed of volcanic rock, the terrain features a mixture of grassy slopes and rocky outcrops, providing a playful balance of footing for hikers. The view from the top is nothing short of spectacular, rewarding those who make the climb with sightlines that stretch across the picturesque landscape of the Lake District.

Routes

Hartsop from Hartsop Village

This moderate route is perfect for those looking for a satisfying day hike without an overwhelming challenge. The path takes you through lush pastures and steeper climbs, with the village of Hartsop as a charming starting point.

Dodd from Kirkstone Pass

For those who are feeling up to a more strenuous trek, starting at Kirkstone Pass will elevate your hike with a steeper ascent and immediate panoramic views. Bring your hiking pole and a water bottle!

Summit Features

As you reach the top of Hartsop Dodd, you'll be greeted by a humble cairn and a viewfinder, perfect for identifying nearby peaks like Helvellyn. Just mind the sheep who might be hoping for a snack!

Gazing Outwards

Once you've caught your breath, take a moment to soak in the vistas. From the summit, discern spots of nearby landmarks and perhaps plan your next adventure. The best views are generally exhibited in spring and early autumn when the vegetation is lush and the skies clearer.

Hazards to Consider

As with any hike, safety first! Keep an eye out for loose stones, slippery patches, and be cautious in boggy areas if the weather has been wet.

Nearby Sights

Take the time to also explore nearby summits like Caudale Head or High Hartsop Dodd, each offering unique perspectives and charming walking trails.

Getting There

Accessing Hartsop Dodd is relatively straightforward. The nearest parking is in Hartsop village where you can also find a café to fuel up before your hike! If public transport is your preferred mode, the 555 bus service provides a convenient option from nearby towns.

Amenities

While the facilities on the mountain are sparse, plenty can be found in Hartsop. A convenient café and a necessary public toilet will ensure you're set before heading out.

In conclusion, Hartsop Dodd may not be the highest mountain, but it certainly packs a punch in terms of the experience it offers. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a lovely afternoon walk, this mountain is worth your time.

Explore routes near Hartsop Dodd

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

View route

Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

View route

Bow Fell from Langdale

View route

Tarn Hows Fast Route

4.1 km ~1h Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

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

Hartsop from Hartsop Village

This route begins in the charming village of Hartsop and winds up through pasture, before tackling the ascent up to the summit. It's a scenic path that offers a bit of a workout without being overly taxing.

6.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Dodd from Kirkstone Pass

Starting from the iconic Kirkstone Pass, this route offers a steeper ascent with stunning views almost from the get-go. A little more challenging but worth every step.

5 km ~2 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Nuttall Subsimm Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

619m

2,031 ft

Prominence

23m

Coordinates

54.4985, -2.9105

NY411118

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S

At the Summit

The summit boasts a small cairn and a prominent viewfinder, perfect for those with a penchant for mountain bingo as they tick off the surrounding peaks.

Terrain & Geology

Grass-covered slopes with rocky outcrops and some areas of bog.

Hartsop Dodd is primarily composed of volcanic rock, featuring fine-grained andesite that creates the rugged terrain typical of the Lake District's geological makeup.

Views & Scenery

The summit provides magnificent views of the surrounding fells, including Helvellyn and the picturesque Ullswater, with the occasional sheep photobombing your pictures.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Hartsop Dodd' likely derives from Old Norse, with 'Dodd' meaning hill or knoll, and 'Hartsop' potentially relating to the local family or place.

Historical Significance

The mountain has been a popular spot for hikers due to its accessibility and stunning views, making it a staple of Lake District walking.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park in Hartsop village, which can fill up quickly on weekends, so come early lest you end up on the roadside.

Public Transport

The closest bus service is the 555, which connects Ambleside, Windermere, and Keswick, with Hartsop being a short walk from the stop.

Nearby Facilities

The closest facilities are in Hartsop village, including a small café for a pre-hike biscuit and a toilet at the village hall for those essential pit stops.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for loose stones on the ascent and the potential for boggy patches following wet weather.

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 Hartsop Dodd?

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

Are there other walkers around Hartsop Dodd?

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 Hartsop Dodd search or of course create your own walk for Hartsop Dodd

Can I organise a walk to Hartsop Dodd?

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 Hartsop Dodd.

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 Hartsop Dodd?

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 Hartsop Dodd 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

Hartsop Dodd location map

Grid reference: NY411118

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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