NY4413 : Cottongrass and Peat Grough

High Raise (High Street)

804m Elevation
90m Prominence
England Country
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NY4413 : Cottongrass and Peat Grough

Mick Garratt Photo source

Overview

High Raise (High Street)

High Raise, also known affectionately as High Street, is an impressive peak nestled within the sprawling Lake District. Ascending at a modest 802 metres, it may not be the tallest in the region, but what it lacks in elevation, it more than makes up for in stunning scenery and challenging routes.

Geology

This area showcases a diverse geological history, prominently featuring volcanic rock known as rhyolite. The very foundations of High Raise were laid over 400 million years ago during significant geological upheaval that shaped the landscape into the rugged beauty we see today. If you happen to stumble across a few interesting rocks on your hike, don't hesitate to divert your conversation to the intricacies of geology – it’s always a hit!

Routes

There are several routes to choose from when tackling this mighty hill.

  1. High Raise Circular Walk - This is the most popular route, taking you from the valley floor of Langdale. Offering picturesque paths and numerous photo opportunities, it spans approximately 11 km and typically takes around 4.5 hours to complete. Expect moderate difficulty with a few gradients to keep your legs honest.

  2. Thornthwaite Beacon - A more challenging route, this climb from the south is shorter at around 9 km but provides a steeper ascent. Prepare for some exertion, but rest assured the views are immensely rewarding – a climb worth every huff and puff!

Summit Features

Upon reaching the summit, you'll find a stone cairn that stands proudly against the sky, offering a perfect spot for a lofty selfie. The vistas from High Raise are bound to leave you speechless (unless you're like me and never quite run out of words).

Terrain Type

Expect a mix of rocky outcrops and grassy slopes, interspersed with boggy patches that might try to catch you off guard. Proper hiking boots are a must if you want to avoid turning your socks into sponges mid-hike!

Views

The panoramic views are sublime; you can see far and wide across the stunning Lake District. Witness the grandeur of Helvellyn, the impressive Langdale Pikes, and even the sparkling stretches of Lake Windermere from your lofty perch. For the best experience, aim for a hike in late spring or summer when the skies are typically clearer.

Hazards

Beware of the unpredictable British weather that can shift dramatically. Turnabout is fair play, but don’t let it catch you unawares! Wet paths can become slippery, so exercise caution. Additionally, especially in foggy conditions, keep an eye on your bearings; the ground’s not likely to come with an instruction manual.

Access

Parking can be found at Stickle Barn car park in Langdale, which fills up faster than a kettle on the boil. If you're relying on public transport, the bus service from Ambleside connects nicely to Langdale, with stops near Chapel Stile.

Nearby Facilities

After your grand adventure, a trip to the local cafe in Chapel Stile is a must for a well-deserved tea or piece of cake (because you’ve earned it!). Public toilets are also available here, a luxury not to be overlooked after a good trek.

History

The name 'High Raise' conveys the very essence of this majestic peak, with 'Raise' being derived from Old Norse, meaning 'hill'. High Raise has long been a pivotal point for hikers, being embedded in the cultural tapestry of the Lake District since the 19th century.

In conclusion, High Raise (High Street) is not just a mountain; it's an experience waiting to be had. Tighten those laces, and go take in the mountainous beauty that the Lake District has to offer!

Explore routes near High Raise (High Street)

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.

High Raise via Martindale

Starting from the Martindale Church car park, this route begins with a steady climb up to Steel Knotts, offering sweeping views of Ullswater. From there, follow the ridge to Wether Hill and Rampsgill Head before reaching the summit of High Raise. Return via the same path or descend via The Nab for a looped route, keeping an eye out for red deer in the area.

12.5 km ~5 hours Moderate

High Raise Circular via Haweswater

Begin at the Mardale Head car park by Haweswater Reservoir. Ascend via the Riggindale path, passing Kidsty Pike before reaching High Raise. Descend via Rampsgill Head and The Knott, completing a scenic loop with views of the reservoir and surrounding peaks.

10.5 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

High Raise via Patterdale and Angle Tarn

Start from Patterdale village and head towards Boredale Hause. Continue past the picturesque Angle Tarn before ascending to The Knott and Rampsgill Head, reaching High Raise. Return along the same path for an out-and-back route with varied terrain and stunning views.

14 km ~6 hours Moderate

High Raise from Hartsop via Hayeswater

Park in Hartsop village and follow the path to Hayeswater. From there, ascend to The Knott and continue to High Raise. Descend via Rampsgill Head and follow the beck back to Hartsop, completing a rewarding circuit with a mix of open fell and valley paths.

9.5 km ~4 hours Moderate

High Raise via High Street Roman Road

This route begins from the car park at the southern end of Haweswater Reservoir. Follow the High Street Roman Road past Kidsty Howes. Ascend to High Street summit and continue north to High Raise. Return via the same historic path, experiencing the ancient Roman route with panoramic views.

13 km ~5.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Simm Hewitt Nuttall Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

804m

2,636 ft

Prominence

90m

Coordinates

54.5134, -2.8538

NY448134

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a prominent stone cairn, and on a clear day, you can see for miles around. It's a perfect spot for a well-deserved rest or an inquisitive pigeon.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some boggy patches. Good hiking boots are advised to prevent any soggy sock surprises.

High Raise is primarily composed of volcanic rock, predominantly rhyolite, originating from the ancient geological history that formed the region approximately 400 million years ago. Its structure is marked by dramatic crags and smooth ridges, presenting a fascinating study for geology enthusiasts.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, one can admire stunning panoramas of the surrounding peaks including Helvellyn, the peaks of the Langdale Pikes, and the tranquil shores of Lake Windermere.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'High Raise' reflects its elevated position, with 'Raise' meaning a hill or ascent in Old Norse.

Historical Significance

High Raise has been a popular site for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts since the 19th century, standing as a testament to the natural beauty and ruggedness of the Lake District.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at the Stickle Barn car park in Langdale, which has ample space but can fill up quickly during peak seasons.

Public Transport

Bus services connect Ambleside to Langdale, with the nearest bus stop located in the village of Chapel Stile.

Nearby Facilities

In the nearby village of Chapel Stile, you will find a lovely cafe, perfect for post-hike refreshments, as well as public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Potential for rapidly changing weather conditions, so be prepared. The terrain can be slippery when wet, and fog can reduce visibility significantly.

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 High Raise (High Street)?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around High Raise (High Street) through the maps

Are there other walkers around High Raise (High Street)?

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 High Raise (High Street) search or of course create your own walk for High Raise (High Street)

Can I organise a walk to High Raise (High Street)?

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 High Raise (High Street).

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 High Raise (High Street)?

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 High Raise (High Street) here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

High Raise (High Street) location map

Grid reference: NY448134

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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