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Skiddaw Middle Top

929m Elevation
10m Prominence
England Country
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Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Binsey from Binsey Lodge Direct Out and Back Wainwright

2.4 km ~1h 30m Moderate

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Brae Fell from Longlands Wainwright

8.8 km ~3h Moderate

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Mungrisdale Common and Bowscale Fell from Mosedale Valley Wainwright

13.4 km ~6h Hard

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Bannerdale Crags from Mungrisdale Wainwright

6.9 km ~2h Moderate

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Route planning notes

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

Skiddaw via the Dash Valley

A popular route starting from the picturesque Dash Valley, this trail winds up through lush valleys and alongside streams, offering a firm workout and spectacular views as you ascend.

9.5 km ~4.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Birkett

Elevation

929m

3,047 ft

Prominence

10m

Coordinates

54.6491, -3.1474

NY260288

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL4S

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a substantial cairn and a stone wind shelter, perfect for catching your breath or pretending you're summiting a peak in the Himalayas.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some boggy sections near the base.

Skiddaw Middle Top is primarily composed of Skiddaw slate, which is a sedimentary rock formed from layers of mudstone. The area's geology dates back around 500 million years, making it a fascinating spot for any rock hound.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the breathtaking sights of Keswick, Derwentwater, and the distant peaks of the Helvellyn range. On a clear day, you might even spot the Isle of Skye!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Skiddaw' is thought to come from the Old Norse word 'skidh' meaning 'shining', likely referring to its prominent, gleaming summits.

Historical Significance

Skiddaw is an iconic mountain in the Lake District, holding historical significance as one of the first to be climbed for recreation in the early 19th century.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is parking available at the Carlside car park, just off the A591 road, which provides direct access to the footpaths leading up to Skiddaw Middle Top.

Public Transport

Keswick has frequent bus services from major towns, making it fairly easy to reach without a car. The nearest bus stop is in Keswick town centre.

Nearby Facilities

Keswick offers various facilities, including cafés, restaurants, and public toilets, ensuring that you don’t have to venture too far for a slice of cake after your climb.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of slippery rocks, particularly after rain, and watch for sudden weather changes, which can occur more often than you can say 'pack the raincoat!'

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 Skiddaw Middle Top?

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

Are there other walkers around Skiddaw Middle Top?

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 Skiddaw Middle Top search or of course create your own walk for Skiddaw Middle Top

Can I organise a walk to Skiddaw Middle Top?

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 Skiddaw Middle Top.

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 Skiddaw Middle Top?

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 Skiddaw Middle Top 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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NY260288

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