Elterwater
Elterwater Hostel
Hostel · Elterwater — Shared dorms, private bunk rooms and a self-catering kitchen in Langdale.
Peaks & fells / Great End
LAKE DISTRICT FELL GUIDE
Great End
Great End marks the northern end of the Scafell range, with impressive crags above the approaches to Esk Hause. Reaching its high summit involves a substantial journey into rough mountain country.
Last updated: 25 October 2026
Approx. height
About 910 m / 2,986 ft
Area
Southern Fells · Esk Hause
Walking character
Remote, rough high mountain walking
Why visit Great End?
The fell rises to about 910 metres. Its northern face looks formidable from the valley approaches, while walking routes reach the upper fell from the Esk Hause side.
Great End can be an objective in its own right or part of a longer circuit. It should not be treated as a negligible extra simply because Scafell Pike is nearby: the approach, navigation and return still require time and judgement.
Route choices
Choose a complete route for your starting point, including the descent. Use a current map and the full route description when planning your walk.
From Seathwaite and Grains Gill
A Borrowdale approach can climb from Seathwaite along Grains Gill towards Esk Hause, then reach Great End’s upper slopes. Use a detailed description to distinguish walking paths from the mountain’s steep gullies and crag faces.
Longer circuits from other valleys
Great End can be included in a researched Wasdale or Scafell-range circuit. These routes involve long approaches and rough high ground. Assess every connection and the return to your actual starting valley before adding neighbouring summits.
Terrain and exposure
Expect stony paths, boulders and an open summit area beside serious crags. The northern gullies are not ordinary walking descents. Cloud, snow and ice make identifying a suitable line particularly important.
Great End in photos
These photographs show the fell and its surroundings. Weather, visibility and ground conditions can be very different on the day of your walk.
Getting there
Seathwaite, Wasdale and Great Langdale are separate approaches to this mountain area. Check the route’s actual start and current parking arrangements. Keep farm access and narrow roads clear, and allow enough time for the long return from the high fells.
Plan for the conditions
Build your day around your party’s experience, the forecast and the daylight available. Carry suitable clothing and navigation equipment, know how to use them, and keep a shorter alternative in mind.
Useful questions
Is Great End the same as Scafell Pike?
No. It is a distinct summit at the northern end of the range.
Can I use the northern gullies as a shortcut?
Do not assume so. They form steep crag terrain, with additional winter hazards. Follow a researched walking route.
Is it a quick extra on a Scafell Pike day?
It adds navigation and time on rough high ground. Include it only when the complete route, daylight and conditions allow.
Explore nearby fells
Places to stay for your walking break
Choose a base for the valley where your walk starts. Open a property to compare its location, photos and facilities, then check availability for your dates.
Borrowdale
YHA Borrowdale
Hostel · Borrowdale — Riverside setting, shared and private rooms, a self-catering kitchen and facilities for walking and cycling breaks.
Wasdale
YHA Wasdale Hall
Hostel · Wasdale / Wastwater — Lakeside historic house, shared and private rooms, and a self-catering kitchen.
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