Kidsty Pike
Good walks are even better shared.
NY4412 : Path leading to Kidsty Pike
Peter S Photo source
Explore routes near Kidsty Pike
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Striding Edge, Helvellyn and Catstye Cam
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Helvellyn via Striding Edge
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Tarn Hows Fast Route
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Bannerdale Crags from Mungrisdale Wainwright
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Kidsty Pike via Haweswater
This classic route begins at Mardale Head car park near the shores of Haweswater Reservoir. From here, follow the well-defined path up along the ridge towards Kidsty Pike. The ascent provides stunning views over Haweswater and the surrounding fells before reaching the summit of Kidsty Pike. The return is via the same route, making it an out-and-back hike.
Kidsty Pike Circular via Riggindale and High Street
Starting at Mardale Head, this circular route ascends through Riggindale, following the path up to Kidsty Pike. From the summit, continue along the ridge to join the High Street Roman road before descending back to Mardale Head. This route offers a mix of historical interest and expansive views of the Lake District.
Kidsty Pike and High Raise from Burnbanks
Begin at the village of Burnbanks near the northern end of Haweswater. Follow the path around the reservoir and ascend towards Kidsty Pike via The Rigg. After summiting Kidsty Pike, the route continues to High Raise before descending back to Burnbanks. This route offers a longer and more varied experience.
Kidsty Pike via the Coast to Coast Path
Follow the Coast to Coast Path from Patterdale, passing through Boredale Hause and Angle Tarn. The trail leads to Kidsty Pike, which is a high point on this famous long-distance route. Retrace your steps for the return journey.
Kidsty Pike Ridge Walk with Rest Dodd
This ridge walk starts at Hartsop and ascends through Hayeswater Gill towards Rest Dodd. From there, the route continues along the ridge to Kidsty Pike, offering spectacular views over the surrounding valleys. Descend via the same route or create a circular loop back to Hartsop.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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NY4412 : Path leading to Kidsty Pike
Peter S
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NY4412 : Kidsty Pike summit rocks
Peter S
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NY4412 : The ridge below Kidsty Pike
Bill Boaden
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NY4412 : Kidsty Pike
Philip Halling
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NY4412 : Kidsty Pike
Peter S
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NY4412 : Twopenny Crag
Michael Graham
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NY4412 : Kidsty Pike from the tarn at Caspel Gate
Clive Giddis
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NY4412 : On Kidsty Pike
Michael Graham
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NY4412 : Summit of Kidsty Pike
John Allan
NY4412 : Kidsty Pike and Haweswater
Dave Dunford
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
781m
2,562 ft
Prominence
15m
Coordinates
54.5055, -2.8550
NY447125
OS Map
90
Explorer: OL5S
At the Summit
At the summit, you’ll find a substantial cairn marking the highest point, along with a stunning panoramic view that stretches across the surrounding peaks.
Terrain & Geology
Predominantly composed of volcanic rock, Kidsty Pike showcases the characteristic ruggedness of the Lake District but is intertwined with softer sedimentary layers. It tells a tale of a tumultuous geological past, reshaped by glaciers.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can behold a magnificent view of the High Street ridge and down towards Haweswater, with stunning sights of surrounding fells.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Kidsty' likely derives from 'Kid's hill', possibly referring to livestock that grazed in these climes.
Historical Significance
Kidsty Pike is a part of the ancient landscape of the Lake District; it's historically significant for its place in local folklore and hiking culture.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Haweswater Car Park at the end of Haweswater, with spaces available but can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Public Transport
Limited public transport, but there are buses from Kendal to Bampton and a small walk from there to the start of the routes.
Nearby Facilities
Basic facilities can be found in nearby villages, but no major facilities are available directly on the mountain.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Muddy paths can make for slippery sections, especially in wet weather. The weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for sudden fluctuations.
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 Kidsty Pike?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Kidsty Pike through the maps
Are there other walkers around Kidsty Pike?
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 Kidsty Pike search or of course create your own walk for Kidsty Pike
Can I organise a walk to Kidsty Pike?
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 Kidsty Pike.
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 Kidsty Pike?
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 Kidsty Pike 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
Community Discussion
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Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: NY447125
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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