Pike o'Stickle

In the Neolithic, people quarried stone for axes on Pike of Stickle, at one of the most important axe factories in Europe. They worked veins of greenstone, and a small cave near the summit, at the top of the Stickle Stone Shoot, was part of the workings.

Great Langdale is the place to start, at either the New or the Old Dungeon Ghyll. From the New Dungeon Ghyll National Trust car park, the main path slants across the hillside between Thorn Crag and Gimmer Crag and comes up past Loft Crag, and most walkers join the fell to Loft Crag and Harrison Stickle this way. From the Old Dungeon Ghyll, walk about 4 km towards the head of the valley and climb the zigzag path beside Troughton Beck. You can also come in from Stake Pass, from the Langdale or Borrowdale side.

The Stickle Stone Shoot is steep and badly eroded, and it is no longer recommended. The summit dome needs a short clamber on good rock with plenty of holds. Stay on the easier line beside the gully rather than the steeper ramps, which can end with an awkward move. The western face, Stickle Breast, is steep and exposed. Dogs may struggle on the final rocks.

For such a sharp profile, the top is surprisingly roomy, with a sizeable cairn on a small level area. You look across to Loft Crag and Bowfell, south to the Southern Fells and north as far as Skiddaw on a clear day. Thunacar Knott and Pavey Ark are close enough to add if the day allows.