Caw Fell

Hill, Mountain in Cumberland Copeland

England

Caw Fell

Summit plateau of Iron Crag with view to Pillar & Haycock Credit: Colin Park

Caw Fell is a prominent hill located in the county of Cumberland in northwest England. Sitting within the scenic Lake District National Park, it forms part of the larger range of fells known as the Western Fells. Caw Fell stands at an elevation of 697 meters (2,287 feet) above sea level, making it a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The hill is characterized by its rugged and rocky terrain, with steep slopes and craggy outcrops. Its summit is marked by a cairn, providing a notable landmark for those reaching the top. From this vantage point, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the nearby Ennerdale Valley, the Sellafield nuclear power station, and the Irish Sea to the west. On clear days, it is even possible to see the Isle of Man on the horizon.

Access to Caw Fell is primarily via the neighboring fells of Haycock and Iron Crag, with various walking routes available to suit different skill levels. As part of the Lake District National Park, the area surrounding Caw Fell is rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and nature photography.

Whether taking on the challenge of its steep ascent or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll through the picturesque countryside, Caw Fell offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Lake District.

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Caw Fell Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.486246/-3.342443 or Grid Reference NY1310. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Summit plateau of Iron Crag with view to Pillar & Haycock

Colin Park

The North Top of Iron Crag

It is difficult to be sure which of the tops of Iron Crag is the higher, but the experts seem to have established that it is the South Top. What is clear is that both tops are on the east side of the Ennerdale Wall, clearly seen here.

David Purchase

The col between Caw Fell and Iron Crag

The Ennerdale Wall, a major feature of the Copeland Forest, is clearly seen here. The more distant stretches, on Iron Crag, have been renovated. The wall to Caw Fell (behind the camera) is currently being restored. I do not know who is paying for what must be a very expensive operation. There is an easy path, albeit quite long, from Heckbarley to Iron Crag and Caw Fell, which is clearly seen here. On the return, it is better to continue beside the wall rather than take the tempting short cut to the left.

David Purchase

Repairing the Ennerdale Wall

Looking towards the cairn (left of centre) at the west end of Caw Fell, a very minor top.

David Purchase

Approaching the summit of Caw Fell

Traditionally the cairn, away to the left, is assumed to mark the highest point of Caw Fell. But I wonder whether the spot at the foot of the wall ahead is actually higher.

David Purchase

The Ennerdale Wall heading for Haycock

This stretch of the wall has not yet been restored.

David Purchase

North-west ridge of Haycock

The route to the summit follows the dilapidated wall, with a few minor variations.

David Purchase

Excellent Pose

A sheep stands on the exposed top of Ennerdale Fell, with Haycock, Tewit How and Pillar in the distance.

Matthew Hatton

Plane Wreckage on Iron Crag

On the 26th June 1959 Pilot Officer R.G. Stirling (Royal Canadian Air Force) flying a North American Mk.6 Sabre of 421 Sq. crashed into Iron Crag when descending too rapidly before clearing the high ground and struck the cloud covered hilltop at 13.11. The plane disintergrated on impact leaving a trail of wreckage over half a mile in length. Most of the larger sections of the plane are to found to the north in NY1211, including almost the complete port wing, and a small section of fuselage, a section of the starboard wing, and parts of the engine. It is a beautiful place, but it must have been a terrible scene at the time.

Matthew Hatton

Ascending Haycock

Starting the climb through a misty Gowder Crag

Michael Graham

On Haycock

On the top. Alf, the Border Terrier can be seen dolefully peering at me from the stile in the Ennerdale Fence.

Michael Graham

Sign on Caw Fell

Sadly the sign reports damage to the recently renovated wall, a substantial undertaking which is part of the Wild Ennerdale project. It is difficult to understand why someone would purposefully damage the wall in this remote spot.The sign states that CCTV pictures are being taken but where is the camera?

Michael Graham