Stone Arthur

Stone Arthur

Stone Arthur is a 504-metre Wainwright above Grasmere in the Eastern Fells. Summit record.

Its rocky top sits on the south-west ridge of Great Rigg, with Greenhead Gill on one side and Tongue Gill on the other. Seen from Grasmere, the rocks stand out against the skyline while the higher ground behind them is hidden. Landscape.

Summit and views

The recorded top is an outcrop at NY 34754 09235. The survey notes that ground 25 m north, at NY 34774 09250, is at least as high. Survey details.

Grasmere lies below the summit, with the Coniston Fells on the southern skyline. Stone Arthur has its own chapter in Book One, The Eastern Fells, of Wainwright’s guides. Summit photograph and guidebook context.

Grasmere out-and-back

From Grasmere, make your way to the Swan Hotel on the A591. Follow the road behind it to the lane signed for Greenhead Gill and Alcock Tarn. Beyond the fell gate, turn left and climb beside the plantation wall. The path bends right, crosses a small gill and traverses towards the spur above Greenhead Gill. Follow the uphill path to the summit rocks. Photographic ascent guide.

Return by the same path: descend to the plantation wall and fell gate, follow the lane back to the Swan Hotel, then retrace your village approach to your starting point. This is a steep out-and-back, with rocky steps and loose gravel underfoot. Complete return route.

The ridge continues to Great Rigg, but that is a longer outing to plan separately. Ridge photographs.

Geology

Stone Arthur lies within the Ordovician Borrowdale Volcanic Group. Across the group, lava flows occur alongside material deposited by explosive eruptions and volcanic debris later reworked into sediment. Fell geology and BGS group definition.

Access and facilities

Stock Lane in Grasmere has pay-and-display parking and toilets. Check current charges and facilities before setting out. Official parking information.

Check public transport to Grasmere and the last return before travelling. Use a current map for the village approach and fell route.

Preparation and safety

Tall summer bracken can obscure parts of the lower path. Take care on loose gravel and wet rocks, particularly during the descent. Terrain notes.

Carry a map and compass, waterproofs, warm layers, suitable footwear, food and water. Check the mountain forecast, share your route and allow time to finish in daylight. Snow or ice requires winter skills and equipment; turn back if conditions exceed your experience. Mountain safety.