Scafell Pike
Mountain England's highest mountain and popular hiking summit
England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike anchors Lake District walking routes and scrambling lines. Hikers come for summit views, stone cairns and nearby mountain pubs in Wasdale and Borrowdale.
Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England, reaching 978 metres above sea level, and is located in the Lake District in northwest England. It is a popular objective for hikers and walkers and is known for its rugged summit environment and extensive views on clear days.
The mountain is part of a compact high ground that includes nearby peaks such as Scafell and Broad Crag, and is commonly climbed from valley start points including Wasdale Head. Paths vary in steepness and exposure and the summit area is a rocky plateau typical of the central fells.
Scafell Pike was presented to the British nation in 1919 and is managed as part of national conservation efforts within the Lake District National Park. Over time infrastructure such as paths and signage has been improved to manage visitor impact and erosion.
The mountain sits in the central Lake District fells in Cumbria, with nearest small settlements including Wasdale Head and Seathwaite; the broader Lake District towns such as Keswick and Ambleside lie within driving distance.
- Elevation: Highest point in England at 978 metres above sea level, making it the summit visited by those attempting the national 'Three Peaks' challenge.
- Ownership and protection: Donated to the National Trust in 1919 to preserve the area for public enjoyment, and now lies within the Lake District National Park.
- Routes and safety: Common ascent routes begin from Wasdale Head, Borrowdale and Eskdale; weather can change rapidly so walkers should be prepared with appropriate gear.
How to Get to Scafell Pike #
Wasdale Head is the common starting point; reach Wasdale by car from the A595 or via B-road approaches from Keswick or Seascale. Public transport is limited; buses run to nearby towns but taxi transfer is often required for early starts.
Tips for Visiting Scafell Pike #
- Start from Wasdale Head if aiming for the shortest, most direct route; Stonycroft and Seathwaite routes are longer and hillier.
- Summit weather is volatile-carry a map and compass (or GPS) and know how to use them; visibility can collapse quickly.
- Avoid July-August weekend crowds if seeking solitude; weekdays are markedly quieter.
Best Time to Visit Scafell Pike #
Summer offers best access and daylight; spring and autumn are quieter but require more careful weather planning.
Weather & Climate near Scafell Pike #
Scafell Pike's climate is classified as Subpolar Oceanic - Subpolar Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -2°C to 15°C. Heavy rainfall (2501 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 2°C and lows of -2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (290 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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February
February is cold with highs of 2°C and lows of -2°C. Heavy rain (207 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -2°C. Heavy rain (227 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (148 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (139 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 5°C. Significant rainfall (133 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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July
July is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (146 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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August
August is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (174 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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September
September is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 5°C. Heavy rain (207 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Heavy rain (268 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (275 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of -2°C. Heavy rain (287 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.