View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water
View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water
Highlight • Viewpoint
View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water
Hiking
5.0
(520)
Running
5.0
(15)
Mountain biking
5.0
(14)
Mountaineering
5.0
(2)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Towering above magnificent Derwent Water, this tremendous, dramatic cliff-faced fell offers fantastic views in clear weather as well as being a family-friendly hike from nearby Keswick. Hiking trails up Walla Crag continue onwards too, so you can add in Falcon Crag, Castlerigg Fell and High Seat for a full day out.
Walla’s watchful gaze over Derwent Water
It’s almost absurd that you can enjoy such phenomenal views from Walla Crag’s modest 1,243 foot (379 m) flatish top. Unless the cloud has descended, the rewards far outweigh the fairly short ascent. To the north, Keswick nestles amongst trees at the head of Derwent Water with vibrant fields between and mighty Skiddaw looming behind.
West might easily occupy your attention, thanks to the lake’s beautiful, wooded islands harking back to Arthur Ransome stories. To the south west, Catbells and Maiden Moor rise behind the lake while Borrowdale wanders off to the south behind the magical woodlands adorning the shoreline.
You can hike up Walla Crag at any time of year and, in autumn and winter, the surrounding fells flourish under deep browns with dramatic clouds lumbering overhead. Paths can get muddy after wet weather so always dress appropriately and watch out for changing conditions.
Accommodation and food can be found in large quantities in charming Keswick and campsites are dotted around in most surrounding valleys including beautiful Borrowdale. Parking spots are dotted along Derwent Water’s eastern shoreline, allowing for a wide choice of starts.
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
May 7, 2021
Hiking
Along with Latrigg, this is the easiest Wainwright summit to ascend directly from Keswick. It's not far from the picturesque and historic Castlerigg Stone Circle either, a classic vantage for Blencathra. Walla Crag can be linked with Bleaberry Fell and High Seat — a nice but often boggy fell walk.
August 4, 2017
Hiking
•
July 24, 2019
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water
4.8
(261)
1,177
hikers
Embark on the Derwent Water & Walla Crag loop from Keswick, a moderate hike spanning 5.2 miles (8.4 km) with an elevation gain of 944 feet (288 metres), typically completed in 2 hours and 37 minutes. This route offers a diverse experience, winding through forested areas with cobbled paths and tree roots, transitioning to grassy tracks and dirt trails. You will encounter steep and rough sections, particularly on the ascent to Walla Crag, which rewards you with expansive views of Derwent Water, its islands, and surrounding fells like Cat Bells and Skiddaw. The return leg along the lakeshore provides a gentler, flatter finish to your walk.
Starting from Keswick, this accessible loop is a great option for a comprehensive Lake District experience, blending woodland, fellside, and lakeside environments. Due to the varied and sometimes challenging terrain, including potentially boggy sections after rain, sturdy walking boots are highly recommended for your comfort and safety. While generally considered moderate, some parts can be strenuous, so plan your visit during suitable weather conditions to fully enjoy the panoramic vistas.
The trail is particularly notable for its exceptional viewpoints, with Walla Crag offering one of the Lake District's finest panoramas, extending to Bassenthwaite Lake and even distant Scottish hills on clear days. You will also pass the iconic Ashness Bridge, a classic stone-built packhorse bridge perfect for photographs. Historically, Lady's Rake, a narrow cleft in Walla Crag, is linked to the Countess of Derwentwater's escape during the Jacobite Uprising, adding a layer of local lore to your journey.
4.7
(90)
597
hikers
14.7km
04:42
590m
590m
Embark on a moderate hiking adventure through the Lake District with the High Seat, Bleaberry Fell and Walla Crag Loop. This route spans 9.1 miles (14.7 km) and involves a significant climb of 1940 feet (591 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 42 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied landscapes, moving from serene woodlands to expansive open fells. From Walla Crag, you can enjoy panoramic views stretching across Derwentwater and the charming market town of Keswick. As you ascend, the trail reveals broad vistas of the surrounding fells, including the impressive Skiddaw and Helvellyn ranges.
When planning your hike, be aware that the section between Bleaberry Fell and High Seat can become quite boggy, particularly after rainfall. For a more enjoyable experience, consider tackling this part of the route during a prolonged dry spell or when the ground is frozen. It is always advisable to wear waterproof boots to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the journey. Check local weather forecasts before you set out to prepare adequately for conditions on the fells.
This loop offers a classic Lake District experience, allowing you to summit three distinct Wainwrights. The diverse terrain ensures that your hike remains engaging, from the sheltered paths through woodlands to the exposed, sweeping views from the fell tops. It provides a rewarding challenge for hikers seeking both physical exertion and stunning natural beauty in one of England's most iconic national parks.
4.7
(31)
196
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 360 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Wednesday 5 August
17°C
12°C
27 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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