NY1318 : On Hen Comb

Hen Comb

506m Elevation
139m Prominence
England Country
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NY1318 : On Hen Comb

Michael Graham Photo source

Overview

Hen Comb: A Hidden Gem in the Lake District

Nestled in the eastern part of the Lake District, Hen Comb is a Nuttall peak that stands at an elevation of 556 meters. This less travelled route presents the perfect opportunity for hikers looking to escape the bustling crowds of its more famous counterparts.

Geology

Hen Comb is primarily composed of volcanic rock, specifically andesite. This rocky composition lends itself to some spectacular views and interesting geological features that are certainly worth noting for any geology enthusiast. You might even feel like you're walking on ancient history!

Access

Getting to Hen Comb is quite straightforward. The nearest parking is at Brothers Water Hotel, which can fill up quickly, particularly on sunny weekends. It’s always wise to arrive early if you plan to drive. If public transport is more your style, the regular buses running from Windermere to Brothers Water are at your service. The nearest town, Patterdale, is approximately 4 miles away, providing a quaint spot to regroup and dine after your adventure.

Routes

One of the most popular routes starts from Brothers Water, allowing for a delightful circular trek of about 7.5 km. This moderate hike typically takes around 3.5 hours, making it suitable for a half-day adventure. As you ascend, you can take in the awe-inspiring views around you, which only get better as you near the summit.

Summit Features

At the summit, hikers are greeted with a rocky outcrop and the obligatory stone cairn, almost as if Mother Nature herself wanted to show off! The panoramic views are nothing short of spectacular—look south to see the serene Lake Windermere shimmer in the distance.

Terrain

The terrain can be quite varied, offering rocky ascents interspersed with grassy patches and, following a bit of rain, some boggy areas thrown in for good measure. Wear sturdy boots, as your feet deserve a treat too!

Views

The views from Hen Comb are the cherry on the cake! On a clear day, the perspectives encompass the neighbouring peaks, with Place Fell standing guard to the south. Spring and autumn are particularly popular for those seeking the best visibility and vibrant colours—like nature's very own art gallery!

Hazards

As with any hike, it's wise to keep an eye out for slippery rocks, especially after rain. The uneven terrain may also cause unexpected tripping hazards, so keep your eyes peeled and your footing steady!

Nearby Summits

If you find yourself in the mood for more exploration, nearby summits include Place Fell and High Hartsop Dodd, both offering more opportunities for breathtaking views and outdoor adventure.

Facilities

Finally, no hike is complete without a spot of refreshment following your trek! Convenient toilets are available at Brothers Water Hotel, and nearby cafés offer a refreshing cup of coffee and a light snack.

In summary, Hen Comb is a delightful peak that promises both tranquillity and beauty—just waiting for you to lace up your walking boots and find out why it's often called a hidden gem of the Lake District. Get out there and enjoy the trails!

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Hen Comb

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

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Scafell Pike via Brown Tongue and Hollow Stones

8.1 km ~4h 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.

Hen Comb from Brothers Water

A popular circular route starting from Brothers Water, offering stunning views and a manageable ascent.

7.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Dodd Dewey Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

506m

1,661 ft

Prominence

139m

Coordinates

54.5509, -3.3433

NY132181

OS Map

89

Explorer: OL4S 303

At the Summit

The summit of Hen Comb boasts a rocky outcrop, adorned with a small stone cairn and panoramic views of the surrounding fells, including the breath-taking Lake Windermere to the south.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some muddy patches particularly after rainfall.

Hen Comb is primarily composed of volcanic rock, specifically andesite, which contributes to its rugged appearance and provides the striking contrasts in colour seen throughout the landscape. The geology reflects the ancient volcanic activity of the region, presenting fascinating features for geology enthusiasts.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the majestic mountains of the eastern Lake District, notably Place Fell and the shimmering waters of Brothers Water and Lake Windermere.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Hen Comb' is thought to derive from old Norse, with 'Hen' meaning 'high' and 'Comb' relating to ridge, thus signifying a high ridge.

Historical Significance

Hen Comb has been a less traversed peak compared to its more famous neighbours, making it a peaceful escape for those looking to enjoy the natural splendour of the Lake District.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Brothers Water Hotel offers a convenient parking area, though it can fill up quickly during peak season. Arrive early to snag a spot!

Public Transport

Regular buses run from Windermere to Brothers Water, with the nearest bus stop located within walking distance.

Nearby Facilities

Public toilets can be found at Brothers Water Hotel, and a charming café nearby offers refreshments and light snacks for weary wanderers.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Slippery rocks, particularly after wet weather; uneven terrain can pose tripping hazards.

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 Hen Comb?

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

Are there other walkers around Hen Comb?

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 Hen Comb search or of course create your own walk for Hen Comb

Can I organise a walk to Hen Comb?

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 Hen Comb.

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 Hen Comb?

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 Hen Comb 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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NY132181

View on OpenStreetMap

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