Lonscale Fell

The eastern outpost of Skiddaw, mostly easy grass — but with one striking feature: its east face plunges in a mile-long scarp of crags to Glenderaterra Beck, with the sharp little east top (Lonscale Pike) perched above the drop. On the safe western side it's a gentle walk; the hazards are keeping clear of that eastern edge and navigating the broad ground in hill fog. Keswick Mountain Rescue Team covers this Skiddaw ground.

• The eastern crag scarp above Glenderaterra: The east face is a long line of crags falling steeply to Glenderaterra, and Lonscale Pike sits right on the edge. Keep well back from the eastern rim, especially in wind or cloud, and take care if visiting the airy east top.
• Navigation in hill fog: In clear weather the route is easy, but the broad grassy ground needs competent map-and-compass work in cloud to avoid drifting toward the eastern edge or onto the wrong line. Take a bearing before moving.
• The Cumbria Way's craggy east flank: The Cumbria Way traverses the steep, craggy eastern flank above Glenderaterra — narrow and exposed in places. Take care with footing there, particularly when wet or windy.

Most common causes: Walkers straying toward the eastern crag edge or the exposed east top in cloud · Navigation errors on the broad grassy ground in hill fog · Slips on the exposed traverse of the eastern flank · Winter ice on the eastern edge and steep flank

Local Mountain Rescue: Keswick Mountain Rescue Team (opens in new tab) · Reviewed 14 Jun 2026

Safety: Hazard guidance compiled from published Mountain Rescue reports and well-documented accident history - editorial background, not a live feed of callouts. Always check current conditions, carry proper navigation equipment, and seek qualified instruction before heading onto the fells. In an emergency, call 999, ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue.

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