Skiddaw
About Skiddaw
Skiddaw is one of the Lake District's most prominent mountains and one of the easiest to climb. The mountain overlooks Keswick and Derwentwater.
Height & Prominence of Skiddaw
Skiddaw stands at 931 metres (3054 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 709 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Skiddaw is part of the Lake District. The OS grid reference is NY 260291, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Skiddaw carries the classifications of Wainwright, Hewitt, Nuttall, Marilyn.
Location & Nearest Towns
Skiddaw is located in England, Cumbria, within Lake District National Park. It sits in the Northern 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 Skiddaw
Skiddaw is a easy walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 931m, 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 Skiddaw one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Skiddaw is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 931m elevation, and easy difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Skiddaw?
Skiddaw has a difficulty rating of Easy. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Skiddaw?
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 Skiddaw?
Skiddaw stands at 931m (3054ft) in England, Cumbria. Classified as a Wainwright and Hewitt and Nuttall and Marilyn, 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 Skiddaw? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
