St Elmo's Summer House
Good walks are even better shared.
SJ0881 : Stile on Clwydian Way
Maggie Cox Photo source
Overview
St Elmo's Summer House
Nestled in the breathtaking Lake District, St Elmo's Summer House may not be the tallest mountain, but it offers walkers a delightful escape with its gentle slopes and stunning views.
Geology
The mountain is primarily composed of the notable Skiddaw slate, recognized for its striking grey layers and excellent drainage properties. This geology not only offers a robust hiking surface but creates fertile grounds for the diverse flora that adorns its slopes.
Routes
One of the most popular routes is the Mardale Ill Bell Route. Starting from the car park at Mardale Head, this well-trodden path leads hikers through lush valleys and grassy slopes, culminating in a rewarding 360-degree view at the summit. A round trip will take about three hours for an average hiker, making it a marvellous half-day trek, or a full day if you decide to lounge at the top and contemplate life’s mysteries, like why socks disappear in the wash.
Summit Features
Atop this noble hill, you will find a sturdy stone cairn, a landmark where many weary but satisfied walkers have paused to appreciate their accomplishment. It’s a perfect spot for a selfie, though try to avoid photobombing the unsuspecting sheep nearby.
Terrain
The terrain is mostly grassy, with rocky areas that can catch you off guard if you're not careful. Perfect for those with stable ankles and strong determination – or perhaps a good friend to hold onto if things get iffy!
Views
From the summit, you can feast your eyes on various lakes shimmering in the sunlight, surrounded by the rolling hills and rugged peaks of the Lake District. Best enjoyed during late spring and summer, when the views are unparalleled, be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment.
Hazards
Caution is advised - particularly in wet weather, as the rocks can be as treacherous as they are picturesque. Always have a reliable pair of hiking boots on hand, and perhaps avoid wearing flip-flops for safety’s sake!
Access
Getting there is straightforward. Head to Mardale Head car park, which is the gateway to this lovely hike. Public transport options are limited, so it’s often best to drive. The nearest village is Shap, just a trot away, where you can stock up on supplies and maybe even grab a cuppa before your hike.
Facilities
While St Elmo's doesn't boast its own facilities, you’ll find a smattering of cafes and conveniences in Shap. Ideal for pre-hike snacks or post-hike celebrations, make sure to pop by for a well-deserved treat!
History
The mountain carries with it the name of St Elmo, linking back to intriguing maritime legends. Whether you believe in ghostly apparitions or not, one can’t help but feel the historical weight resting upon this hill.
So lace up your boots, gather a friend or two, and venture forth to St Elmo's Summer House. A splendid day in nature just waiting to unfold!
Explore routes near St Elmo's Summer House
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Dyserth to Prestatyn: old railway walkway return
View route
Liverpool Waterfront Walk with Men Walking & Talking
View route
Chester Walk with Men Walking & Talking
View route
Llyn Crafnant: Lakeside Circuit from the NRW Car Park
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Mardale Ill Bell Route
Starting from the small car park at Mardale Head, this route winds its way up through scenic valleys and up the gentle slopes to the summit.
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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SJ0881 : Stile on Clwydian Way
Maggie Cox
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SJ0881 : St Elmo's Summerhouse (a Tumulus)
Maggie Cox
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
239m
784 ft
Prominence
95m
Coordinates
53.3251, -3.3754
SJ084817
OS Map
116
Explorer: 264N 265
At the Summit
At the summit, you will find a large stone cairn that stands testament to the many hikers who have trodden this route. On a clear day, it's a lovely place to catch a breather.
Terrain & Geology
The mountain consists predominantly of Skiddaw slate, a sedimentary rock formed in the Permian period, known for its distinct layering and rich mineral content.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can see the picturesque valleys of the Lake District, the shimmering waters of Ullswater, and the craggy outlines of nearby mountains like High Street and Kidsty Pike.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'St Elmo' is derived from the Spanish 'San Elmo,' referring to St. Erasmus, a protector of sailors, possibly linking the site’s historical significance to maritime folklore.
Historical Significance
St Elmo's Summer House is steeped in local legend, often associated with tales of ghostly apparitions during stormy nights, making it a favourite for storytellers.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Mardale Head car park is the closest, offering ample space but can be full at peak times.
Public Transport
Limited bus services run from Penrith to Haweswater, particularly on weekends during the summer months.
Nearby Facilities
There are no facilities on the mountain itself, but the nearest options in Shap include a couple of cafes and public toilets.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Some sections can be slippery, especially in wet conditions. Always watch your step, as the rocks can be as mischievous as they are beautiful.
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 St Elmo's Summer House?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around St Elmo's Summer House through the maps
Are there other walkers around St Elmo's Summer House?
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 St Elmo's Summer House search or of course create your own walk for St Elmo's Summer House
Can I organise a walk to St Elmo's Summer House?
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 St Elmo's Summer House.
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 St Elmo's Summer House?
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 St Elmo's Summer House 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
Grid reference: SJ084817
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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