Intermediate – some hands on rock Grade <1 scrambling required
Distance
3 miles
Time
4.5 hours
Elevation
2,126 ft
Starting Point
Gatesgarth Farm Carpark CA13 9XA
OS Map
OS Explorer OL4
Winter Conditions
crampons required if icy
Fleetwith Pike with the (farmer owned) carpark in the foreground.
Heather clad Fleetwith Pike, was commercially quarried in the 18th century and today stands like an imposing watchman over Buttermere. It is often included as part of a hiking circuit when ticking off neighbouring fells. But a fun and challenging alternative, is to arrive at the summit by scrambling directly up the nose from Gatesgarth Farm. Ideal if you are looking to find your feet in the scrambling world or to introduce others. While it is short and relatively easy to navigate, a map and compass are always advised.Looking up from the start of the ascent, you will see the memorial to Fanny Mercer, an 18-year-old girl who sadly slipped and fell to her death in 1887 while hiking with friends. These days the route path is hardcore and well drained.The full route from Gatesgarth Farm carpark, to the summit, down to Dubs Hut, continuing down and right towards the return path.Looking back at the farm and carpark (within the trees). Most of the path cuts within a manmade groove and maintained by the National Trust.The path takes you up the nose, known as fleetwith Edge.Halfway up, this area is a relatively flat and popular with wild campers.Looking down at Buttermere, and further in the distance Crummock Water, which hugs the bank of Mellbreak [far centre].The top section of the walk turns into a Grade 1 scramble with a few false summits before arriving on the crest.Fleetwith Summit (2,126ft) does not have a Trig but a cairn to mark the highest point.Once you arrive on the summit if you look across to your right you will see the start of the return path. At the furthest point in the distance is Scafell Pike, [front left] is Great Gable, [centre] Kirk Fell, [right] Pillar, and directly in [front] is Haystacks.Leaving the summit down the path to your right you will soon arrive at Dubs Hut, a former Miners Hut and now used as a Bothy for mountaineers who seek rest from adverse conditions.The start of the return path with High Crag [centre] in the distance.The upper return path has overhanging hawthorn along the route, is quite rocky and difficult to navigate in parts. So if you find yourself on this route in spring, take care not to let the dreamy scented blossoms distract from considered foot placement.The welcome path here now eases off in most parts.The final leg back after a wonderful relaxing day.
my heart with pleasure fills as it dances on the heather hills
Additional Notes :
If you arrive in Buttermere over Newlands Pass you will need to turn left at this sign. If you head over Honister Pass you will arrive at Gatesgarth Carpark before central Buttermere. The carpark becomes incredibly busy in summer and at the weekend, so it is useful to note that if like me you have a camper, you can park overnight. Fees are £4 per day.
