Scafell Pike in the Lake District

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Scafell Pike is the highest peak in England, and the third highest in Great Britain, lower only than Ben Nevis in Scotland and Snowdon in Wales. It is one of the peaks in the 'Three Peaks Challenge' in which walkers try to get to the top of the three highest peaks in Great Britain, ie., Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scafell Pike, in the shortest possible time, most impressively within 24 hours.

Broad Crag Tarn, on the slopes of Scafell Pike, is claimed to be the highest body of water in England, although nearby Foxes Tarn, on Sca Fell, has a rival claim. Geologically, Scafell Pike's igneous rock is part of the group known as Borrowdale Volcanic Rock.

There are several different routes to the top of Scafell Pike and the walker should choose the route which is, realistically, best suited to their own capabilities and level of fitness. The most popular route is that from Wasdale Head and is a steep but relatively uncomplicated walk. Physically more challenging, but with fantastic views along the way, is the route out of Borrowdale via Styhead Tarn. A longer but easier route takes the walker from Borrowdale, Seathwaite, via Grains Gill and Esk Hause to the summit. Other routes set out from Langdale (the Old Dungeon Ghyll hotel) or from Eskdale. All of these routes can be varied slightly to make the walk longer, shorter, easier or more arduous.

Once the top is reached you realise why you've made the effort. From this boulder strewn plateau, at the top of the mountain, can be seen a fabulous vistas of mountains and valleys stretching as far as the eye can see in all directions.