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Little Man (Skiddaw) summit

Little Man (Skiddaw) summit

Highlight • Viewpoint

Little Man (Skiddaw) summit

Hiking

4.9

(211)

Running

5.0

(5)

Mountain biking

5.0

(1)

For a vista that encapsulates everything that is special about the Lake District National Park, there are few finer viewpoints than that of Skiddaw Little Man’s summit. Its green slopes give way first to patchwork pastures, then to the lovely town of Keswick backed by island studded Derwent Water. Finally, all is encircled by a tumultuous arc with layer upon layer of hill and mountain peaks stretching back to the horizon.

Most ascents to Skiddaw Little Man begin from the car park above Latrigg and follow the broad path up Jenkin Hill. From the summit, many go on to its parent peak, Skiddaw, England’s fourth highest. Quieter alternatives include routes from the ‘Back o’ Skiddaw’ at Skiddaw House, said to be England’s most remote inhabited building and home to a charming hostel.

Applethwaite and Millbeck also make good bases for adventures to Skiddaw Little Man. For those after an adrenaline rush, the southwest arête route from Millbeck offers scrambling interest of around grade I that can be avoided if it all feels like too much.

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Lake District National Park

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Location: Underskiddaw, Allerdale, Cumbria, North West England, England, United Kingdom

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Alex Foxfield

October 10, 2020

Hiking

Here is one of the finest views in the entire national park, arguably better than from its parent peak. Glistening Derwent Water is embraced by the soaring ridgelines and peaks of the southern Lake District, a tumultuous arc of legendary fells. Lakeland at its finest.

Adventurer Nic

August 8, 2020

Hiking

Often bypassed by the folks who only have Skiddaw (Big Man) in their sights but this is a cracking fell with awesome views over Derwent Water and the Lake District

Joss

April 24, 2021

Hiking

Amazing views of Derwent Water

Nearby routes

Best routes near Little Man (Skiddaw) summit

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#1.

Skiddaw loop from Keswick — Lake District National Park

16.4km

05:54

880m

890m

Embark on a challenging hike up Skiddaw, England's fourth-highest mountain, on this rewarding loop from Keswick. The trail covers 10.2 miles (16.4 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2900 feet (884 metres), typically taking around 5 hours and 53 minutes to complete. You'll follow a well-trodden, stony path, often called the Jenkin Hill Bridleway, which offers a steady gradient through rounded, grassy slopes. As you ascend, you'll experience diverse terrain and expansive panoramic views, including Borrowdale to the south and the wilder "Back o' Skiddaw" area.

This difficult hike requires good fitness, but its accessibility from Keswick makes it a popular choice. You can start directly from the town center, eliminating the need for a car. Be prepared for potentially cold and windy conditions at the summit, even on milder days in the valley, so bring suitable clothing and sturdy footwear. The route is generally straightforward, but the upper sections are exposed to the elements.

Skiddaw is known as a "gentle giant" among the Lake District's higher peaks, offering a manageable yet significant mountain climb. From the summit, you can enjoy unparalleled 360-degree views of the entire Lake District, including Keswick, Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite Lake, and other major fells. The mountain itself is formed from ancient Skiddaw slate, and a circular stone-built wind shelter from 1876 stands at the top, adding a touch of history to your achievement.

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Hard

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#2.

Castlerigg Stone Circle – Skiddaw Summit loop from Threlkeld

26.6km

08:47

1,160m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

4.5

(31)

411

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#3.