NY1822 : Footpath towards Hopegill Head summit

Hopegill Head

770m Elevation
97m Prominence
England Country
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NY1822 : Footpath towards Hopegill Head summit

Graham Robson Photo source

Overview

Hopegill Head

Overview

Hopegill Head stands proud at an elevation of 570 meters, beckoning hikers with its rolling beauty and rugged terrain. Nestled within the Lake District, this charming fell is a gem for both seasoned walkers and those looking to dip their toes into Welsh waters—well, metaphorically speaking!

Geology

Formed from volcanic activity, Hopegill Head’s andesitic structure tells tales of ancient geological forces. Wander around, and you’d be forgiven for thinking you were stumbling through a time capsule where every stone has a story to tell.

Routes

Buttermere to Hopegill Head
  • Distance: 8.5 km
  • Time: Approximately 3.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate
    This trail begins at Buttermere, offering a gentle ascent through some of the most picturesque scenery you can imagine. Bring your camera—but keep an eye on the path for the odd sheep!
Grasmoor from the North
  • Distance: 10.0 km
  • Time: 4 hours
  • Difficulty: Challenging
    This route provides a more strenuous workout, perfect for those looking to flex their muscles. Grip onto those trekking poles and prepare for a good old-fashioned leg burn.

Summit Features

When you reach the summit, the prominent cairn welcomes you like an old friend. Take a breather, admire the views, and revel in your achievement—perhaps snapping a selfie to capture your moment of glory!

Terrain

Expect rocky outcrops and grassy knolls, along with a few cheeky boggy patches that likes to catch you unawares. Waterproof shoes are a topic worth considering before you embark on your adventure.

Views

Highlights

From the summit, sights extend over the High Stile ridge, Grasmoor, and the breathtaking Buttermere valley. It’s a veritable feast for the eyes!

Best Seasons

Spring and autumn are prime times for the best vistas, though summer promises a delightful display of wildflowers.

Hazards

Bask in the beauty of Hopegill but keep alert. Wet conditions can make paths slippery, and the weather can change quicker than you can say ‘welly boots’.

Nearby Summits

  • Grasmoor (852 meters) is just a stone's throw away (just a very big stone, mind you).
  • Sand Hill (582 meters), another lovely neighbour to explore.

Access

Nearest Parking

You can park at the National Trust car park in Buttermere. It’s a hotspot for hikers but be sure to arrive early to snag a good spot!

Public Transport

Buses from Keswick regularly trot over to Buttermere, especially in summer.

Nearest Town

Keswick is your go-to town for supplies, cheese scones, or just spotting a few fellow adventurers.

Facilities

Buttermere is equipped with delightful cafes to refuel after your trek, and don’t worry—there are toilets at the car park to give you peace of mind!

History

Name Meaning

'Etymology-lovers rejoice!'—the name Hopegill combines old English terms for 'hope' and 'gill', a fitting tribute to the awe-inspiring ravines.

Significance

A beloved spot within walking guides, Hopegill Head’s majesty has made it a part of Lake District’s celebrated hiking heritage.

So gear up, lace those boots, and get ready for an unforgettable experience on Hopegill Head! Make it a habit to laugh in the face of nature—but with respect!

Explore routes near Hopegill Head

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

Whinlatter dark skies walk

View route

Whinlatter dark skies walk

View route

Derwentwater Walk: full lakeside circuit from Keswick

15.9 km ~5h Moderate

View route

Steeple, Scoat Fell and Haycock from Ennerdale

View route

Route planning notes

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

Classic Grisedale Pike and Hopegill Head Circular

Starting from the car park in Braithwaite, this popular circular route takes you up Grisedale Pike via its well-trodden ridge path before heading to Hopegill Head. The ascent offers stunning views of the surrounding fells and the Vale of Keswick. From Hopegill Head, descend via the Coledale Hause and return along the Coledale Beck valley path.

11.5 km ~5 hours Moderate

Hopegill Head via Whiteside

This linear ridge walk starts from Lanthwaite Green near Crummock Water. Ascend Whiteside, a sharp and rewarding ridge with dramatic views of Grasmoor and the Buttermere valley. From Whiteside, continue to Hopegill Head along the exhilarating ridge path, then return the same way or descend to Coledale Hause for a loop.

8 km ~4.5 hours Challenging

Grasmoor and Hopegill Head Horseshoe

Begin at the car park near Lanthwaite Green and ascend Grasmoor via Lad Hows. From Grasmoor, descend to Coledale Hause and continue the ridge to Hopegill Head, enjoying expansive views across the Lakes. Return via the Whiteside ridge for a spectacular horseshoe route.

12 km ~6 hours Challenging

Hopegill Head from Coledale

A shorter walk starting from the Coledale Bridge parking area. Follow the valley path to Coledale Hause and then ascend directly to Hopegill Head. This route offers a relatively quick and direct approach to the summit, ideal for those looking for a shorter outing.

6.5 km ~3 hours Moderate

Hopegill Head via Force Crag Mine

Starting at the Force Crag Mine car park in the Coledale Valley, this route follows a rugged path up to Coledale Hause and then ascends to Hopegill Head. The route passes through fascinating industrial heritage sites and offers a quieter alternative to the more popular approaches.

7 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Simm Hewitt Nuttall Subhump Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

770m

2,525 ft

Prominence

97m

Coordinates

54.5881, -3.2617

NY185221

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL4S

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a prominent cairn and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding fells.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some boggy patches in lower areas.

Hopegill Head is primarily composed of andesite, a type of volcanic rock formed from lava flows. The surrounding area features a mix of slate and sedimentary deposits, providing an intriguing geological tapestry.

Views & Scenery

Notable landmarks include the High Stile ridge, Grasmoor, and the picturesque Buttermere valley.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Hopegill' is believed to derive from the old English words for 'hope' and 'gill' (a narrow, steep ravine) reflecting the landscape's character.

Historical Significance

Hopegill Head is often recognised in walking guides and has a prominent place in the outdoor heritage of the Lake District.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at the National Trust car park in Buttermere, which has limited spaces and is well-situated for starting hikes.

Public Transport

Regular bus services run to Buttermere from Keswick, especially during the summer months.

Nearby Facilities

In Buttermere, there are cafes for refreshments, and toilets are available at the car park.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Care should be taken on wet or slippery paths. Visibility can rapidly change due to weather conditions.

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 Hopegill Head?

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

Are there other walkers around Hopegill Head?

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 Hopegill Head search or of course create your own walk for Hopegill Head

Can I organise a walk to Hopegill Head?

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 Hopegill Head.

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 Hopegill Head?

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 Hopegill Head here

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

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Location

Hopegill Head location map

Grid reference: NY185221

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Crag Hill [Eel Crag]

839m

Grisedale Pike

790m

Grasmoor

852m

High Stile [Grey Crag - High Stile]

806m

Fleetwith Pike

649m
See 5 more nearby hills