Langdale Pikes

About the Langdale Pikes

The Langdale Pikes form one of the Lake District's most recognisable and photographed mountain profiles—a dramatic skyline of rocky summits that dominate the northern side of Great Langdale Valley. These distinctive peaks represent the remnants of an ancient volcano's outer rim, created around 450 million years ago during the Ordovician period. Their steep southern faces, towering crags and perfect conical profiles create an instantly identifiable silhouette that has become synonymous with Lakeland mountaineering.

Whilst the term 'Langdale Pikes' commonly refers to the trio of Harrison Stickle, Pike of Stickle and Loft Crag, the range typically includes Pavey Ark and Thunacar Knott, with nearby High Raise and Sergeant Man often climbed in conjunction. These peaks attract both serious fell walkers and casual tourists in equal measure—a testament to their accessibility combined with genuine mountain character. The circular route linking the main summits offers some of the finest ridge walking in the Lake District, with constantly changing perspectives and dramatic valley views.

The Individual Summits

Harrison Stickle (736m) stands as the highest pike, offering superb summit views with Stickle Tarn far below and Pavey Ark's almost vertical face appearing impossibly steep from this angle. The rocky summit provides a spectacular vantage point overlooking the entire Great Langdale Valley.

Pike of Stickle (709m) presents perhaps the most distinctive profile—a perfect dome or giant molehill perched on the edge of a precipitous drop into Mickleden. Wainwright described its summit as "the perfect dome suggested by its appearance from a distance, being circular in plan and bell-shaped." The exposed, airy position offers glorious views down Great Langdale and across to Bowfell and the Scafells.

Pavey Ark (700m) impresses with its massive crag face towering above Stickle Tarn. The diagonal groove of Jack's Rake—a Grade 1 scramble—cuts dramatically across this near-vertical face, offering an adventurous alternative route for experienced scramblers.

Thunacar Knott (723m) occupies a central position, its summit offering views over Stickle Tarn with the Langdale Valley visible in the distance.

Loft Crag (680m) provides excellent retrospective views of Pike of Stickle, Bowfell and Crinkle Crags, with the path overlooking the impressive Dungeon Ghyll.

Historical and Archaeological Significance

Pike of Stickle holds extraordinary archaeological importance as the site of one of Europe's most significant Neolithic stone axe factories, dating back approximately 6,000 years. The prominent quarries situated above the scree slopes on the steep southern face exploited a vein of greenstone—an exceptionally hard volcanic rock that made superior axe heads. Evidence of axe manufacture has been found throughout Great Langdale, but Pike of Stickle's screes have yielded the most discoveries. These Stone Age axes were traded across Britain, testament to the quality of Langdale stone and the sophistication of Neolithic trade networks.

The Challenge

The classic Langdale Pikes circular walk covers approximately 9 kilometres with around 700 metres of ascent, typically requiring 5-7 hours depending on fitness and conditions. Despite the relatively modest distance, the technical, rocky terrain and undulating route create a substantial mountain day. The walk begins immediately with a steep, sustained climb up Stickle Ghyll—an hour of relentless upward progress that tests legs and lungs before the adventure truly begins.

The terrain varies dramatically: well-defined stone paths, rocky scrambles (particularly on Pike of Stickle), boggy sections requiring careful foot placement (especially between Pike of Stickle and Thunacar Knott), and exposed rocky ground. The descent from Loft Crag has gained particular notoriety for being steep, rocky and slippery—described by some walkers as "a misery" that demands concentration and sure-footedness.

Stickle Tarn

This glacially-carved tarn, perched 400 metres up the mountainside, provides one of the route's highlights—a place of rugged beauty nestled between the massive cliff face of Pavey Ark and commanding views across Great Langdale. The original tarn was enlarged by a dam built in 1838 to provide water power for gunpowder works down the valley at Elterwater. Today it offers a perfect rest stop, wild swimming opportunity and spectacular photographic location.

Starting Point and Facilities

Most routes begin from the National Trust car park at Stickle Ghyll near the New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel and Sticklebarn. The immediate area offers excellent facilities: Sticklebarn serves environmentally-conscious food including vegetarian curries and locally-sourced lamb; the Walker's Bar at New Dungeon Ghyll provides a relaxing atmosphere; whilst the traditional Climber's Bar at Old Dungeon Ghyll offers authentic Lakeland pub character with traditional ales served in former cow stalls.