NY1614 : On High Stile, The Lake District

High Stile

806m Elevation
9m Prominence
England Country
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NY1614 : On High Stile, The Lake District

Derek Voller Photo source

Overview

Overview

High Stile is a prominent mountain in the Lake District, standing tall at 2146 meters. It forms part of the thrilling High Stile ridge, connecting several peaks that are frequently trekked by enthusiasts.

Geology

The mountain's geology features robust Borrowdale volcanic rock, which has seen its fair share of weathering and erosion over time. The contrasting slate formations add to the interesting landscape.

Routes

There are two main routes to consider:

  1. The High Stile Ridge Walk
    • Distance: 11.0 km
    • Time: Approximately 6 hours
    • Difficulty: Moderate
      This route offers a full traverse of the ridge, allowing hikers to enjoy a comprehensive experience of the area.
  2. Buttermere to High Stile Path
    • Distance: 5.5 km
    • Time: About 3.5 hours
    • Difficulty: Challenging
      Starting from the charming Buttermere village, this ascent can be steep and requires a bit of stamina, but the views are absolutely worth it.

Summit Features

The summit greets you with a sturdy cairn and horizon-spanning vistas, including famed landscapes of Buttermere and Crummock Water.

Terrain

Expect a rugged and rocky terrain dotted with grassy patches, which can provide a bit of welcome relief for tired feet.

Views

From the top, hikers can spot landmarks such as Scafell Pike to the south and the glistening lakes reflecting the sky's hues below. Late spring and autumn are prime times for photography, so bring your cameras!

Hazards

As with many mountain hikes, stay alert for loose stones, especially after a good rain. Weather can change faster than you can say 'Bob’s your uncle', so be prepared!

Access

Parking is available in Buttermere, but it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during holidays when it feels like everyone and their dog is heading up the hill. The nearest public transport comes from Keswick, but be prepared for limited schedules.

Facilities

After your hike, enjoy a well-deserved drink or snack in one of Buttermere’s quaint cafes.

Conclusion

Whether you are an experienced mountaineer or just looking for a splendid day out surrounded by the natural beauty of the Lake District, High Stile is a peak that should not be missed. Parcelling up stunning views, diverse terrain and a hearty splash of British charm, it’s the perfect place to lace up your boots and hit the trails!

Explore routes near High Stile

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

Steeple, Scoat Fell and Haycock from Ennerdale

View route

Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

View route

Scafell Pike via Brown Tongue and Hollow Stones

8.1 km ~4h Hard

View route

Whinlatter dark skies walk

View route

Route planning notes

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

Buttermere Circular via High Stile Ridge

This classic route begins in Buttermere village and ascends via Scarth Gap Pass, taking walkers onto the High Stile ridge. From here, enjoy spectacular views over Buttermere and Crummock Water before descending via Red Pike and returning along the lakeshore path.

12 km ~5.5 hours Hard

High Stile from Gatesgarth Farm

Starting at Gatesgarth Farm near the head of Buttermere, this route climbs steeply up to Scarth Gap. From there, continue to High Crag and follow the ridge over High Stile before descending via Red Pike and Dodd, completing a satisfying loop.

10 km ~4.5 hours Hard

High Stile via the North-West Ridge

This less-trodden route begins near the National Trust car park in Buttermere and ascends directly up the northwest ridge of High Stile. It offers a steep and challenging climb with rewarding panoramic views. Descend via Red Pike and the lakeshore path.

8.5 km ~4 hours Hard

High Stile and Fleetwith Pike Horseshoe

A longer and more adventurous route incorporating both High Stile and Fleetwith Pike. Starting at Gatesgarth Farm, ascend Fleetwith Pike first, then cross over to the High Stile ridge via Haystacks. Descend via Scarth Gap Pass for a challenging but stunning day out.

15 km ~7 hours Very Hard

High Stile from Buttermere via Bleaberry Tarn

This route starts in Buttermere village and ascends to Bleaberry Tarn beneath Red Pike. From there, climb to the ridge, visiting Red Pike, High Stile, and High Crag, before descending via Scarth Gap Pass. A popular and rewarding circular walk.

11 km ~5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Wainwright Birkett

Elevation

806m

2,645 ft

Prominence

9m

Coordinates

54.5216, -3.2877

NY167147

OS Map

89

Explorer: OL4S

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn and a stunning view looking out over Buttermere and Crummock Water, framed by the dramatic skyline of the surrounding peaks.

Terrain & Geology

Rugged and rocky interspersed with grassy patches typical of the Lake District landscape.

High Stile is primarily composed of Borrowdale volcanic rock, renowned for its ruggedness and dark colours, giving it a robust character that is both striking and intimidating. There are also interesting formations of slate found here.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can feast your eyes on the stunning vistas of Buttermere, Crummock Water, and beyond to the mystical Scafell Range.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'High Stile' refers to the mountain's elevated position, with 'stile' often relating to a fence or boundary.

Historical Significance

High Stile has been a popular trekking destination for generations, featured in many famous walking books, including those by Alfred Wainwright.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is parking available at the Buttermere car park, but spaces can fill up quickly during peak season.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service runs from Keswick to Buttermere, with limited frequencies, so plan accordingly.

Nearby Facilities

In Buttermere, you'll find a few cafes and public toilets, perfect for a pit stop before or after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose stones and wet conditions can make footing uncertain, especially after rain. The ridge can also be subject to sudden weather changes, so it's wise to keep an eye on the sky.

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 Stile?

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

Are there other walkers around High Stile?

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 Stile search or of course create your own walk for High Stile

Can I organise a walk to High Stile?

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 Stile.

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 Stile?

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 Stile 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

High Stile location map

Grid reference: NY167147

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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