Bowfell

Bowfell is a pyramid-shaped mountain located in the English Lake District. It is the fifth highest mountain in the Lake District, popular among hikers and fell walkers. Bowfell is situated in the Southern Fells area of the Lake District, flanked to the south by Crinkle Crags and to the north by the Langdale Pikes.

Many visitors to the Lake District are drawn to Bowfell for its challenging hiking trails and breathtaking panoramic views. The most popular route up Bowfell is via The Band, which offers a rewarding experience for those looking to push their limits. The summit provides stunning views of the Pennines to the east and the Isle of Man to the west, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

Location

Bowfell is a pyramid-shaped mountain located in the heart of the English Lake District, in the Southern Fells area. It is the fifth-highest mountain in the Lake District and one of the most popular fells for walkers.

Geography

Bowfell stands at an elevation of 902 metres (2,959 ft) above sea level and is flanked to the south by Crinkle Crags and to the north by the Langdale Pikes. The mountain is made up of several rocky ridges, including The Band, which is the most common route up Bowfell. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Pennines to the east and the Isle of Man to the west.

Access

The starting point for the ascent of Bowfell is at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel in Great Langdale. There are several car parks in the area, and visitors can also access the mountain by public transport via the Langdale Rambler bus service. The most popular route up Bowfell is via The Band, which starts at the Stool End Farm car park and follows a well-defined path up the mountain. The ascent is steep in places and requires a good level of fitness and experience.

Wainwright’s Guide To The Southern Fells covers routes up Bowfell.

Hiking Routes

Bowfell is a popular destination for hard fell walkers and offers a challenging and rewarding experience for those looking to push their limits. Here are two routes to consider:

Route 1: Bowfell via The Band

This route starts at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel car park and is 9.6km long, taking approximately 3 hours to complete. Walkers will head first along the road, then between the fields of the flat valley bottom until they reach Stool End Farm. After that, the route follows the path known as The Band, which is a wide and stony track that leads to Three Tarns. From there, walkers will head to the summit of Bowfell via the Climber’s Traverse. This is a challenging route that requires a good level of fitness and experience.

Route 2: Bowfell Circular from Great Langdale

This circular route is 7.0 miles long and takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes to complete. The starting point is at the National Trust car park in Great Langdale. Walkers will head towards Stickle Ghyll and follow the path up to Stickle Tarn. From there, the route follows the path to the summit of Bowfell via the Band. After reaching the summit, walkers will descend via the Climber’s Traverse and head towards Three Tarns. From there, they will follow the path towards Crinkle Crags before descending back to the starting point. This is a challenging route that requires a good level of fitness and experience.

History and Culture

Bowfell has a rich history and culture that dates back to the prehistoric era. The mountain was formed during the last Ice Age, around 10,000 years ago, and has since been shaped by the forces of nature.

The area surrounding Bowfell has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years, with evidence of Bronze Age settlements and mining activities in the nearby Langdale Valley. The mountain has also played an important role in the cultural and religious traditions of the local people, who have long regarded it as a sacred site.

During the Victorian era, Bowfell and the Lake District became a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Many famous writers, artists, and thinkers, such as William Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter, and John Ruskin, were inspired by the beauty of the region and helped to popularise it as a destination for nature lovers.

Today, Bowfell and the Lake District continue to attract visitors from all over the world, who come to explore its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, who can enjoy its challenging terrain and breathtaking views.

Accommodation

Hotels

Bowfell Cottage is a charming hotel located in Bowness-on-Windermere. It is situated just off A5074, Lyth Valley Road, above the eastern shore of the lake, about 1 mile south of Bowness Bay. The hotel is set in 0.5 acres of wooded ground and gardens, providing a peaceful and relaxing environment for guests.

For those looking for a hotel near Bowfell Mountain, Great Langdale, there are several options available. The closest hotels include The New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, The Herdwick Place, and The Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel. All of these hotels offer comfortable rooms, delicious food, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Campsites

For those who prefer camping, there are several campsites located near Bowfell. The Great Langdale Campsite is located at the foot of the Langdale Pikes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The site has a range of facilities, including showers, toilets, and a shop. Another popular campsite is the National Trust Campsite at Wasdale Head. This campsite is located at the foot of Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, and offers stunning views of the surrounding fells. The site has basic facilities, including toilets and a water tap. Overall, there are plenty of accommodation options available for those looking to explore Bowfell and the surrounding area. Whether you prefer hotels or campsites, there are plenty of options to choose from, all offering comfortable accommodation and stunning views of the Lake District.

Tips and Recommendations

What to Bring

When planning to hike Bowfell in the Lake District, it’s essential to pack the right gear. Here are some recommendations:

• Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Warm layers, including a hat and gloves
• Map and compass, and the skills to use them
• Plenty of water and high-energy snacks
• Mobile phone with a fully charged battery

Remember to pack light and avoid unnecessary items that will weigh you down during the hike.

Best Time to Visit

Bowfell can be hiked at any time of the year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and experience level.

Summer (June to August) is the most popular time to hike Bowfell, but it can be crowded and busy. The weather is generally warm and dry, but there can be occasional rain showers.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to pack waterproof gear and be prepared for changing conditions.

Winter (December to February) can be challenging and requires experience and proper gear. The weather can be harsh, with snow and ice on the trails. Only experienced hikers should attempt Bowfell during this time.

Whatever season you choose, make sure to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before setting out. Always follow the Countryside Code, respect the environment, and leave no trace of your visit.