Ill Crag
About Ill Crag
Ill Crag is part of the Scafell massif and England's third highest peak. It's usually climbed as part of a round from Wasdale or Borrowdale.
Height & Prominence of Ill Crag
Ill Crag stands at 935 metres (3068 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 35 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Ill Crag is part of the Lake District. The OS grid reference is NY 223072, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Ill Crag carries the classifications of Wainwright, Hewitt, Nuttall.
Location & Nearest Towns
Ill Crag is located in England, Cumbria, within Lake District National Park. It sits in the Southern Fells area.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the Lake District National Park authority.
Safety Tips
Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.
Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.
Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.
Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.
On the Mountain: Walking Ill Crag
Ill Crag is a hard walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 935m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.
After your walk, the nearest village is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands is an excellent resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ill Crag one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Ill Crag is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 935m elevation, and hard difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Ill Crag?
Ill Crag has a difficulty rating of Hard. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Ill Crag?
The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.
Why Visit Ill Crag?
Ill Crag stands at 935m (3068ft) in England, Cumbria. Classified as a Wainwright and Hewitt and Nuttall, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.
Nearby Peaks to Explore
Looking beyond Ill Crag? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
