SD1592 : Burn Moor cairn and Whitfell

Whitfell

573m Elevation
223m Prominence
England Country
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SD1592 : Burn Moor cairn and Whitfell

David Brown Photo source

Explore routes near Whitfell

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Scafell Pike via Brown Tonge and Hollow Stones

8.1 km ~4h Hard

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Tarn Hows Fast Route

4.1 km ~1h Moderate

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Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

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Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

View route

Route planning notes

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

Whitfell from Gillfoot

A pleasant loop starting at Gillfoot, passing through lush valleys before making a gentle ascent towards the summit.

8 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Whitfell via Whinfell Common

A more challenging route leading from Whinfell Common with stunning views over the surrounding fells.

6.5 km ~4 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Dewey Wainwright Outlying Fell Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

573m

1,881 ft

Prominence

223m

Coordinates

54.3255, -3.2949

SD158929

OS Map

96

Explorer: OL6N

At the Summit

The summit features a small cairn and a fantastic panoramic view that makes for the best selfie spot in the Lake District. If you can make it to the top, don't forget to enjoy your victory snack!

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops offering a bit of everything for the adventurer's feet.

Whitfell is primarily composed of Skiddaw Slate, a formation that has undergone severe metamorphic processes. This geological contrast offers a fascinating insight into the region's tumultuous past.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see Skiddaw, Blencathra, and the rolling hills of the Lake District beneath your feet.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Whitfell' is derived from the Old Norse word for 'white hill', likely referencing the light-coloured stones found in the areas surrounding the summit.

Historical Significance

Whitfell has been a lesser-known gem for hikers in the Lake District, offering a quieter alternative to the more popular peaks while still delivering breathtaking views.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is free parking available at Gillfoot, which is a short walk from the start of most routes.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service operates from Keswick, which is the main transport hub for the area.

Nearby Facilities

There are several cafes in Keswick where you can grab a bite to eat or a hot drink before or after your hike. Public toilets are also available in the town.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of sudden changes in weather, which can occur frequently in the Lake District. Also, slippery stones in wet conditions can lead to an unintended slide down the hill!

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 Whitfell?

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

Are there other walkers around Whitfell?

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 Whitfell search or of course create your own walk for Whitfell

Can I organise a walk to Whitfell?

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 Whitfell.

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 Whitfell?

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 Whitfell 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: SD158929

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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 Scafell

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 Scafell Pike

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Dow Crag

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