High Pike (Caldbeck)

High Pike (Caldbeck)

High Pike rises to 658 metres in the Northern Fells. Its summit has several landmarks, including a stone seat. Fell profile.

The summit and views

The highest point is the large cairn and wind shelter at NY 31877 35001. The trig pillar stands eight metres north and is slightly lower, so make sure you visit the cairn as well. Summit record.

The slate seat is another distinctive feature of the top. High Pike appears in Book Five of Wainwright’s guides, The Northern Fells. Summit landmarks.

In clear weather, look north across the Solway Firth towards the Scottish hills. Skiddaw and Blencathra fill much of the southern skyline. Views from High Pike.

From Caldbeck and back

Start at Caldbeck village car park, NY 323399. Starting point.

Take the Cumbria Way south by Gill Beck and Townhead to Nether Row. Continue onto Caldbeck Common and follow the old mine road past the Potts Gill workings. The ascent leads past Low Pike and the north shelter to the summit. Photographed approach.

For the return, retrace the ascent past Low Pike, descend to Nether Row and follow the Cumbria Way back into Caldbeck and the village car park. The out-and-back is approximately 9.5 km; allow time for breaks, navigation and the conditions underfoot. Return-walk overview.

Old mine shafts are a serious hazard on these slopes. Stay on the established paths, keep away from openings and spoil edges, and keep dogs close and children under close supervision near the workings. Mine workings on the approach.

Geology and mining

The summit bedrock belongs to the Eycott Volcanic Group. These Ordovician rocks include basalt and andesite lava flows, together with tuff and other volcanic deposits. Local geology; rock-group description.

Mining shaped the wider Caldbeck Fells from medieval times into the twentieth century. The remains and minerals are protected through a collecting policy with different zones and permission requirements. Leave material where you find it unless you have the necessary permission. Mining heritage and collecting rules.

Access and preparation

Caldbeck has toilets and places to get refreshments. If you have time after the walk, the nearby Howk gorge and bobbin-mill ruins offer a separate short outing from the village car park. Check parking notices and current opening arrangements locally. Village facilities and the Howk.

For public transport, check current Caldbeck services and the last return before planning your day.

Carry a map, suitable clothing, food and drinking water. Check the mountain forecast, leave your route with someone and allow enough daylight for the descent. Turn back if conditions worsen; exposed ground is best avoided in storms or high winds. Snow and ice require winter skills and equipment. Fellwalking safety.