St Sunday Crag

St Sunday Crag is a mountain located in the Lake District National Park in England. It is situated in the north-east section of the park, between the valleys of Grisedale and Deepdale. The mountain is part of a ridge that runs for two miles before descending to the valley floor behind Patterdale village. St Sunday Crag is the highest point on this ridge, which stretches between Fairfield and Ullswater.

The ascent of St Sunday Crag offers stunning scenic views down to Ullswater below and across to the Helvellyn range. The mountain is a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts. There are several routes to the summit, with the most popular being via Grisedale. This 8.4-mile circular walk takes an average of 5 hours and 8 minutes to complete and is generally considered a challenging route. The best times to visit this trail are May through September.

Overview

St Sunday Crag is a mountain located in the Lake District’s Eastern Fells. It is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the region, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is named after St. Sunday (local name for St Dominic), who was a Christian saint from the 7th century AD.

Topography

St Sunday Crag is the highest peak on Fairfield’s north-eastern ridge, which stretches for two miles before dropping to the valley level beyond Patterdale settlement. A rocky slope descends from the flat Fairfield peak across the subsidiary top of Cofa Pike to the col at Deepdale Hause at c680 m (2,200 ft). This is a small ridge point that has been extensively damaged by human activity. The land rises once more to St Sunday Crag, rising over the fells on each side. Beyond the top, there is a quick descent to the lower plateau of Birks, and beyond that is Arnison Crag’s farther satellite.

St Sunday Crag’s summit is triangular in shape, with a third ridge going out to the east. This traverses a valley (The Cape) before reaching the lower peak of Gavel Pike at 784 m (2,572 ft). Although its subsidiarity is all too obvious from above, this is a shapely pyramid deserving of the ‘pike’ label from below. The farther summit of Lord’s Seat lies below Gavel Pike, before the short east ridge slopes out over difficult land to Deepdale.

The northwestern face above Grisedale is St Sunday Crag’s crowning splendour. The top’s long beautiful arc is positioned atop a half-mile-long crag wall, with the entire face precisely symmetrical. A number of steep gullies cut across the crags, providing action for scramblers and climbers together with the intervening ridges. The crags end at around 550 m (1,800 ft), and are replaced by a steep scree slope that descends to the valley floor, which is another 250 m (800 ft) below. This face is visible from Helvellyn and Birkhouse Moor across the valley.

Deepdale, which separates St Sunday Crag from Hart Crag and Hartsop above How, runs to the south-east of the mountain. This face is as steep and rugged, but there is no prolonged protrusion of rock. Cold Cove, a hanging valley cut off by Deepdale, lies between Gavel Pike and Birks. The becks from St Sunday Crag all flow into Ullswater near Patterdale.

Geology

Geologically the summit area is andesite, overlaying the St Sunday Crag Member, a 50-metre-thick layer of rhyodactic lapilli-tuff which breaks the surface on the east ridge.

Location

St Sunday Crag is located in the Patterdale valley, about 5 miles north of Windermere. It is part of the Fairfield group of mountains and is situated between the valleys of Deepdale and Grisedale. The summit of the mountain stands at a height of 841 metres (2,759 feet) above sea level.

Description

St Sunday Crag is a steep and rocky mountain that offers a challenging climb to its summit. The mountain is known for its distinctive shape, with a long ridge that extends from the summit towards the north-east. The ridge offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, including Helvellyn, Fairfield, and the Grisedale Tarn. The mountain is also home to a number of small tarns and streams.

The Summit

The top of St Sunday Crag is unexpectedly flat and green, given the sharp peaks on each side. Two cairns stand on the highest point, where rocks emerge from the ground. A cairn at the northern end of the peak area has the best view of Ullswater. A quartz cross, now hidden among the bilberry, stands above the crags that mark the summit of East Chockstone Gully. The vista encompasses much of the District, with Striding Edge and the Fairfield crags standing out. Gavel Pike offers excellent views of Deepdale’s head.

History

St Sunday Crag has a rich history that dates back to the prehistoric times. The mountain was used as a hunting ground by the Neolithic people, who left behind a number of stone tools and weapons. In the medieval times, the mountain was used as a grazing ground for sheep and cattle. The area around St Sunday Crag was also known for its lead mining industry, which flourished in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The mountain was first climbed by Alfred Wainwright, a famous guidebook writer, in the 1930s. Since then, it has become a popular hiking destination in the Lake District, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

Getting There

By Car

To get to St Sunday Crag, visitors can drive to Patterdale via the A592 road, which runs along the eastern shore of Ullswater. From Grasmere, visitors can take the A591 road northwards to reach the A592. From Pooley Bridge, visitors can take the A592 southwards. There is limited parking in Patterdale, but visitors can park at the hotel or alternatively use the car park in Glenridding, which is about ten minutes walk from the start of the route.

By Public Transport

Visitors can take the bus to Patterdale from Penrith or Windermere. The 508 bus service runs from Penrith to Patterdale via Pooley Bridge and Glenridding. The 508 bus service also runs from Windermere to Patterdale via Ambleside and Grasmere. Visitors can also take the train to Penrith and then take the bus to Patterdale. The nearest train station to Patterdale is Penrith North Lakes station.

Visitors can also take the Mountain Goat bus service, which runs from Windermere to Patterdale via Ambleside and Grasmere. The Mountain Goat bus service also runs from Keswick to Patterdale via Glenridding.

It is worth noting that public transport services in the Lake District can be infrequent, so visitors should check the timetables in advance.

Routes

Route Description

St Sunday Crag is a popular Lake District fell, located in the eastern fells. It offers a number of routes to the summit, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. One popular route starts from the village of Patterdale and follows the Grisedale valley up to Grisedale Tarn. From there, the route heads up to the summit of St Sunday Crag via Deepdale Hause. This route is approximately 11km long and takes around 5-6 hours to complete.

Another popular route starts from Glenridding and follows the path up to Grisedale Beck before heading up the steep slopes of St Sunday Crag. This route is shorter than the Patterdale route, at around 7km, but is more challenging due to the steep ascent.

Climbs and Scrambles

St Sunday Crag offers a number of challenging climbs and scrambles for experienced walkers and climbers. The Pinnacle Ridge is a popular climb, offering a challenging scramble to the summit of St Sunday Crag. This route is only suitable for experienced climbers and should only be attempted in good weather conditions.

Descent

There are a number of descent routes from St Sunday Crag. One popular route is to follow the ridge down towards Birks and then head back down to Patterdale. Another option is to descend towards Deepdale Hause and then follow the path back down to Patterdale. Both routes offer stunning views of the surrounding fells and valleys.

Overall, St Sunday Crag offers a range of routes for walkers and climbers of all abilities. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb or a leisurely walk, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful fell.

Maps and Weather

Maps

When planning a trip to St Sunday Crag, it is important to have the right maps to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. One of the most popular maps for the area is the Ordnance Survey Explorer OL5 map, which covers the Lake District North-East area, including St Sunday Crag. This map is highly detailed and includes information on footpaths, landmarks, and elevation, making it an essential tool for hikers and climbers.

In addition to physical maps, there are also a number of digital maps and GPS apps available, such as ViewRanger and OS Maps. These can be useful for tracking progress and ensuring that you stay on the right path, but it is important to have a physical map as a backup in case of technical issues or battery failure.

Weather

The weather in the Lake District can be unpredictable, so it is important to check the forecast before heading out. Clear Weather is a popular website that provides detailed weather forecasts for St Sunday Crag and the surrounding areas. The site offers information on temperature, wind speed, precipitation, and cloud cover, as well as hourly forecasts and a 7-day outlook.

It is important to note that weather conditions can change quickly in the Lake District, so it is important to be prepared for all eventualities. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and equipment, including waterproofs, warm layers, and sturdy footwear. It is also important to check the weather forecast regularly throughout your trip and adjust your plans accordingly.

Overall, having the right maps and keeping an eye on the weather forecast can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to St Sunday Crag.

Safety and Equipment

St Sunday Crag is a challenging trail that requires good scrambling skills and the appropriate safety equipment. It is important to be adequately prepared before embarking on this hike. Here are some safety tips and equipment recommendations to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

Compass

It is important to carry a compass and know how to use it. The weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, and it is easy to get disoriented in poor visibility. A compass can help hikers stay on course and avoid getting lost.

Sun

Yes, we do occasionally get some scorching hot sunny days in the Lakes! Pack some decent sunscreen to protect your skin.

Snow

During the winter months, St Sunday Crag can be covered in snow and ice. It is important to have the appropriate gear, including crampons and an ice axe, to ensure safe passage over icy sections. Hikers should also be aware of the risk of avalanches and take appropriate precautions.

Rain

The Lake District is known for its rainy weather. Hikers should be prepared for wet conditions and carry waterproof clothing and gear. Slippery rocks can also be a hazard in wet conditions, so hikers should take extra care.

Ice

Even during the summer months, there can be patches of ice on the trail. Hikers should be prepared with the appropriate gear, including crampons and an ice axe, to ensure safe passage over icy sections.

Cattle

There are often cattle on the trail, particularly in the summer months. Hikers should be aware of the risk of encountering aggressive cattle and take appropriate precautions, such as giving them a wide berth.

In addition to the above, hikers should also carry a first aid kit, plenty of water and food, and a map of the area. It is also recommended to let someone know your planned route and expected return time. By following these safety tips and equipment recommendations, hikers can enjoy a safe and memorable hike up St Sunday Crag.

Accommodation and Food

Visitors to St Sunday Crag have several options for accommodation and dining.

Camping

For those who enjoy camping, there are several campsites in the area, including Gillside Farm Campsite and Side Farm Campsite. These campsites offer basic facilities such as toilets and showers, and are located in beautiful surroundings with stunning views of the surrounding hills. If hiking to camp, check out our recommended lightweight tents.

Hotels and Inns

For those who prefer more comfortable accommodation, there are several hotels and inns in the area. The White Lion Inn, located in Patterdale, is a popular choice among visitors. The inn offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving traditional British cuisine, and a cosy bar with a selection of local ales. Another option is the Patterdale Hotel, which offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving modern British cuisine, and a bar with a selection of wines and spirits.

Restaurants

Visitors to St Sunday Crag have several options for dining out. The White Lion Inn and Patterdale Hotel both offer restaurants serving traditional and modern British cuisine, respectively. For those looking for something a bit different, there is also the Granny Dowbekin’s Tearoom in Pooley Bridge, which offers a selection of homemade cakes, sandwiches, and soups.

Overall, visitors to St Sunday Crag have a range of options for accommodation and dining, whether they prefer camping, hotels, or restaurants.

Conclusion

St Sunday Crag is a stunning peak located in the Lake District’s Eastern Fells region in Cumbria, England. It is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including the Grisedale Valley and Ullswater.

The peak is part of the Fairfield Horseshoe, a popular hiking trail that takes visitors on a scenic ridge walk through some of the Lake District’s most beautiful landscapes. St Sunday Crag is also a notable landmark on the Coast to Coast trail, a long-distance hiking route that spans the country.

With a height of 841 metres, St Sunday Crag is one of the highest peaks in the region, and its prominence makes it a popular destination for hikers seeking a challenging climb. The peak’s rocky terrain and steep slopes offer a thrilling adventure for experienced hikers, while its scenic vistas and tranquil surroundings provide a peaceful retreat for those seeking a more relaxed hiking experience.

St Sunday Crag is part of a range of peaks that offer some of the best hiking and mountaineering opportunities in the country. Its location in the Lake District National Park makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world, drawn by the area’s stunning natural beauty and challenging terrain.

In conclusion, St Sunday Crag is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a challenging and rewarding hiking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a casual hiker, the peak’s stunning vistas, challenging terrain, and peaceful surroundings make it a must-see destination in the Lake District.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the height of St Sunday Crag?

St Sunday Crag is a mountain in the English Lake District, with a height of 841 metres (2,759 feet) above sea level.

What is the difficulty level of Pinnacle Ridge?

Pinnacle Ridge is a challenging scramble that requires a good level of fitness, experience and technical skills. It is rated as a grade 3 scramble, which means that it involves steep and exposed sections, with some difficult moves that require the use of hands and feet.

What is the distance of the Wainwrights round?

The Wainwrights round is a classic walking challenge that involves climbing all 214 fells described in Alfred Wainwright’s seven-volume Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells. The total distance covered by the round is estimated at around 320 miles (515 km), depending on the route taken.

Where is Grisedale Tarn located?

Grisedale Tarn is a glacial lake located in the Grisedale Valley, between St Sunday Crag and Fairfield. It is situated at an altitude of 1,800 feet (550 metres) above sea level, and can be accessed via a well-defined path that starts from Patterdale.

What is the record time for completing the Wainwrights round?

The current record for completing the Wainwrights round is held by Paul Tierney, who completed the challenge in 6 days, 6 hours and 5 minutes in 2019. However, many walkers take several weeks or even months to complete the round, depending on their level of fitness and experience.

What is the best route to reach Hallin Fell?

Hallin Fell is a small hill located on the eastern shore of Ullswater, near Pooley Bridge. The best route to reach the summit is to follow the footpath that starts from the car park at Howtown, and climbs gradually up the eastern flank of the fell. The route offers stunning views of Ullswater and the surrounding fells, and is suitable for walkers of all abilities.