NY2021 : Approaching Outerside

Outerside

568m Elevation
74m Prominence
England Country
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NY2021 : Approaching Outerside

Trevor Harris Photo source

Overview

Outerside: A Hidden Gem of the Lake District

Outerside may not be the most famous hill in the Lake District, but it certainly hides its light under a bushel. Standing at 664 metres, it offers stunning views, a pleasant hike, and a touch of local history.

Geology

Outerside's unique geology is a window to the past. Composed mainly of volcanic rock, the mountain showcases the raging activity that once defined the Lake District. Keep your eyes peeled for interesting rock formations; they make for great chat around the campfire!

Routes

The route from Applethwaite is the most popular among hikers. It's a delightful trek that starts off gently and culminates in a more strenuous finish. With a distance of just 7.5 km, it’s the perfect choice for a half-day adventure.

Summit Features

Upon reaching the summit, you'll find a grand cairn to welcome you. It's the ideal spot to take those all-important summit selfies. Don’t forget to have a look at the viewfinder to appreciate the sprawling landscape.

Terrain Type

Expect a mix of grassy trails and the occasional rocky outcrop. Throw in some boggy patches for good measure, and you've got yourself a typical Lake District experience. Wellies are a good idea!

Views

The views are the cherry on top. With Derwent Water glimmering below and peaks like Skiddaw teasing you from a distance, it’s hard not to feel like you’re on top of the world. The best views are in Spring and Autumn when the weather is clearer and the scenery is painted in vibrant hues.

Hazards

As with any trek in the Lake District, be mindful of the weather, which can change quicker than you can say 'Jack Robinson'. The rocks can get slippery in wet conditions, so make sure to tread carefully!

Access

Getting to Outerside is easy peasy. The nearest parking is in Applethwaite, a quaint village full of charm. If you're relying on public transport, buses often run to Keswick, which is just a stone's throw from the start of your adventure.

Facilities

Once you're back from your jaunt, Keswick offers a good selection of cafés. A slice of cake or a good cuppa is highly recommended to replenish those energy levels.

History

The name 'Outerside' is believed to have Norse roots, suggesting its position among the hills. Its significance goes beyond just scenic views; it resides within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a treasure not just for hikers but for all admirers of natural beauty.

So pack your bags, lace up those boots, and head off to enjoy a lovely day out at Outerside. Just remember, if you spot a sheep giving you the side-eye, it’s probably just wondering why you’re huffing and puffing while it’s perfectly at peace!

Explore routes near Outerside

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

Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

View route

Route planning notes

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

Outerside from Applethwaite

A popular route starting from the village of Applethwaite that takes you gently uphill along established paths, finishing with a steep but manageable ascent to the summit.

7.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Dodd Dewey Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

568m

1,864 ft

Prominence

74m

Coordinates

54.5822, -3.2222

NY211214

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL4S

At the Summit

The summit of Outerside features a large rocky cairn, perfect for resting your feet and contemplating life. There’s also a fine viewfinder to help you identify the surrounding peaks.

Terrain & Geology

Mix of grassy paths rocky outcrops and occasional boggy spots typical of the Lake District.

Outerside features a mix of volcanic rock and scree slopes, characteristic of the Lake District's dramatic landscape. The local geology includes andesitic lavas that once flowed here millions of years ago, giving the area a rugged charm.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of Derwent Water, Skiddaw, and the surrounding peaks of the Lake District. On a clear day, you can even spot the Solway Firth and the mountains of Scotland.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Outerside' likely originates from the Old Norse, meaning 'outer side' referring to its location relative to other nearby hills.

Historical Significance

Outerside is part of the iconic landscape of the Lake District, which is cherished for its natural beauty and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is parking available at the small car park in Applethwaite. Be mindful of local parking restrictions.

Public Transport

Regular buses serve Keswick from nearby towns, and from Keswick, you can take a short taxi ride to Applethwaite.

Nearby Facilities

A café and public toilets are available in Keswick. Be sure to fuel up with a slice of cake for the journey!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Potential for changeable weather; keep an eye on the sky. Slippery rocks can pose a risk, especially after rain.

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 Outerside?

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

Are there other walkers around Outerside?

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 Outerside search or of course create your own walk for Outerside

Can I organise a walk to Outerside?

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 Outerside.

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 Outerside?

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 Outerside 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

Outerside location map

Grid reference: NY211214

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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