Sheffield Pike

Sheffield Pike

Sheffield Pike is a 676.1-metre Wainwright in the Eastern Fells. Summit record.

The fell divides Glencoyne from Glenridding and connects westwards to Green Side across Nick Head. Its top is a rough plateau of heather, grass, small pools and rocky knolls. Steep crags guard both flanks, so its modest height does not make it an easy stroll. Landscape.

Summit and views

A cairn stands on a rock outcrop at NY 36911 18181. It is also the Wainwright top. An old estate boundary stone sits within the cairn. Survey record and summit photographs.

Look south-west towards Catstycam and Helvellyn, with Raise to the right. Sheffield Pike is included in Book One, The Eastern Fells, of Wainwright’s guides. Views and guidebook context.

Glenridding circuit

This circuit from Glenridding is about 9.2 km, with 611 m of ascent.

From the main car park, follow the Helvellyn path to Greenside Road. Climb past the cottages to The Rake and the col below Glenridding Dodd. Visit its summit, then retrace your steps to the col. Circuit guide.

Climb the south-east ridge via Heron Pike, then follow the broad, heather-covered upper ridge to Sheffield Pike’s cairn. Ridge photographs.

Descend west towards Nick Head. Beyond the boundary post, turn left before the col. Cross the footbridge by the quarry heaps and descend the zigzags to Greenside Mine. Cross Glenridding Beck below the buildings and turn left onto the higher valley-side path. Before Mires Beck, descend beside the enclosure wall. Return via Gillside Farm and the path below the campsite to Glenridding’s car park. Descent details.

Keep to the ridge: its craggy flanks are not escape routes. Route precautions.

Geology

The summit is mapped as Birker Fell Andesite Formation, in the Ordovician Borrowdale Volcanic Group. Its rocks are mainly successive lava flows; the formation also includes basalt, dacite and deposits of volcanic fragments. Summit geology and BGS definition.

Access and facilities

Glenridding’s main pay-and-display car park has toilets. Check current charges and signs. Official parking information.

Check current public transport to Glenridding and the last return before travelling.

Preparation and safety

Expect steep climbing, wet ground and rocky steps. Carry a map and compass, warm waterproof clothing, suitable footwear, food and water. Check the mountain forecast, share your plan and leave time to finish in daylight. Snow and ice require winter skills and equipment. Mountain safety.