Causey Pike
A distinctive fell in the Lake District with a nobbly summit, offering stunning panoramic views and challenging ridge walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Causey Pike
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A distinctive fell in the Lake District with a nobbly summit, offering stunning panoramic views and challenging ridge walks.
"One of the most distinctive fells in the north and western fells, because of the nobbly domed summit."
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking boots
Essential for steep ascents and the 'tough little finish' to the summit. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking can be limited
Arrive early or visit on a weekday to secure a spot in popular areas like Newlands Valley. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Causey Pike Summit
Summit
A distinctive, nobbly domed summit offering breathtaking panoramic views of the North Western Cumbrian mountains.
Rowling End Ridge
Ridge leading to summit
A scenic ridge walk with relief on the plateau before the final ascent, offering stunning vistas.
Coledale Horseshoe
Circular route
An iconic circular hike that includes Causey Pike, Scar Crags, Sail, and Crag Hill for a challenging day out.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking boots
Essential for steep ascents and the 'tough little finish' to the summit. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking can be limited
Arrive early or visit on a weekday to secure a spot in popular areas like Newlands Valley. :car:
🗺️ Consider the Coledale Horseshoe
A challenging but rewarding circular route including Causey Pike and other fells. :hiking_boot:
🐶 Dog-friendly options nearby
Causey Pike Cottage offers a great base for dog owners with walks on the doorstep. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking boots
Essential for steep ascents and the 'tough little finish' to the summit. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking can be limited
Arrive early or visit on a weekday to secure a spot in popular areas like Newlands Valley. :car:
🗺️ Consider the Coledale Horseshoe
A challenging but rewarding circular route including Causey Pike and other fells. :hiking_boot:
🐶 Dog-friendly options nearby
Causey Pike Cottage offers a great base for dog owners with walks on the doorstep. :dog:
📸 Capture stunning views
The summit offers 'stunning' panoramic views, especially on a clear day. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Causey Pike is celebrated for its distinctive summit and breathtaking panoramic views, offering a less crowded alternative to nearby popular fells. While the hike presents a 'tough little finish,' the rewarding vistas and scenic ridge walks make it a worthwhile adventure for many. Some visitors note the steep ascents require good fitness.
"Approaching Causey Pike in the middle distance on the left hand side of the photo . I took in Causey Pike as part of the extended Coledale Round which also included Grassmoor.
I would recommend this walk in one of the most beautiful places in the world."
Michael Black
"Great views over the Northern Lakes. Can be climbed from several locations. The route that I took was from Newlands valley Parking in the area before Stonycroft Holiday cottages. The walk then took me up, via a well graded path, keeping the Beck and Causey Pike to the left. The path then skirts round with Grizedale Pike and Sail coming into view. After a short steep section, You get to the hause between Causey Pike and Sail. Take in the view before turning left up the ridge to Causey Pike summit. The descent is either back the way you came or a scramble down the front of Causey Pike back to the Car park in Newlands"
Gary Ware
"One of the most distinctive fells in the north and western fells, because of the nobbly domed summit. Although not of great height it should not be underestimated with steep ascents and a tough little finish to reach the summit. The views on a clear day are stunning and it's well worth the effort. And it's so much quieter than Catbells!!!!"
Dean Parker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Causey Pike by taking the X4/X5 bus from Keswick to Braithwaite. Keswick itself is accessible by bus from Penrith, which has a mainline train station.
A popular parking area is in the Newlands Valley, before Stonycroft Holiday Cottages. Another option is the small car park at Grisedale Pike Path, Keswick CA12 5TL.
While not of great height, Causey Pike has steep ascents and a 'tough little finish' to the summit. It's best suited for experienced hikers.
Yes, Keswick is a good base for accessing Causey Pike. You can take a bus to Braithwaite or drive to nearby parking areas.
For parking near Causey Pike, consider CA12 5TL for the Grisedale Pike Path car park, or look for parking in the Newlands Valley.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Causey Pike is a natural mountain landscape within the Lake District National Park, so no tickets are required for entry.
There are no entrance fees to hike Causey Pike. Parking fees may apply at designated car parks.
Causey Pike is accessible at all times, as it is an outdoor natural attraction. However, hiking during daylight hours is recommended for safety.
There are several routes, including a well-graded path from Newlands Valley and the challenging Coledale Horseshoe. The summit is reached via a ridge.
Yes, guided hikes are available from local mountain guides, offering a safe and informative experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Causey Pike is considered a moderate to challenging hike due to steep ascents and a 'tough little finish' to the summit.
A hike to Causey Pike can take around 3 hours for a 7.17km route, or longer if incorporated into the Coledale Horseshoe (approx. 7 hours). 
The views are stunning and panoramic, offering vistas across the North Western Cumbrian mountains, the Northern Lakes, and valleys like Buttermere.
While families can hike it, the steep sections and 'tough little finish' might be challenging for very young children. Consider shorter routes or carrying them.
There are no facilities at the summit of Causey Pike. It is a natural mountain peak, so come prepared with all your essentials.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially on clear days. The ridge walk and the distinctive domed summit itself are also great subjects.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and enhance the landscape. Clear days are essential for maximizing the views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating distant peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan for long exposures. :camera:
The summit itself provides the most comprehensive views. The ridge leading up to it also offers excellent vantage points.
Drone usage in national parks can be restricted. Always check the latest regulations for the Lake District National Park before flying a drone. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for well-graded paths, like the one from Newlands Valley, and take plenty of breaks. The stunning views from the top will be a great motivator for kids. Alternatively, exploring the lower-lying areas around the Newlands Valley or visiting dog-friendly spots like Causey Pike Cottage can be more manageable for families with younger children.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Packing your own picnic lunch and snacks is highly recommended, as dining options directly on the mountain are non-existent. Staying in hostels or budget guesthouses in Keswick or surrounding villages can also help keep accommodation costs down.
🐶 Dog Owners
For a comfortable stay, consider dog-friendly accommodation like Causey Pike Cottage, which offers a welcoming environment for your pet and direct access to walking routes. Remember to bring plenty of water for your dog, especially on warmer days, and always clean up after them.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Coledale Horseshoe: A Classic Lake District Challenge
This horseshoe walk typically takes around 7 hours to complete, allowing for breaks and time to soak in the incredible scenery. It's a route that demands good fitness and navigation skills, but the rewards are immense. You'll traverse varied terrain, from grassy slopes to rocky ridges, with constantly evolving views.
Many hikers recommend starting this route from Braithwaite or the Newlands Valley. The ascent to Causey Pike via Rowling End is a popular approach, offering a more gradual introduction before the final push to the summit. The descent can be equally rewarding, with different perspectives of the surrounding fells.
Causey Pike's Distinctive Summit and Views
On a clear day, the vistas from Causey Pike are truly breathtaking. You can see across the North Western Cumbrian mountains, the expansive Northern Lakes, and down into picturesque valleys like the Buttermere valley. The views are often described as 'uninterrupted' and 'super,' especially when compared to more crowded nearby peaks.
Many visitors recommend using a copy of Wainwright's view compass to help identify the numerous peaks visible from the summit. This adds an educational layer to the already spectacular scenery, allowing you to put names to the impressive mountain ranges surrounding you.
Dog-Friendly Stays Near Causey Pike
The cottage even provides a welcome hamper for dogs, adding a thoughtful touch for pet owners. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding fells without leaving your furry friend behind. The proximity to excellent walking routes ensures that both you and your dog can enjoy the stunning Lake District scenery.
While the cottage itself is dog-friendly, remember that responsible dog ownership is crucial when hiking. Always keep your dog under control, especially around livestock, and ensure you clean up after them. The Lake District National Park has specific guidelines for dog owners.
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