Thornthwaite Crag from Ill Bell

Thornthwaite Crag

Height784m (2,572ft)

Prominence30m (98ft)

RegionFar Eastern Fells

Climbed4 Times

Thornthwaite Crag stands as a spectacular focal point for a vast portion of the Far Eastern Fells. Positioned dramatically at the heads of several valleys, its broad, flat plateau operates as a true walker's crossroads. Thanks to the network of high-level tracks converging here, it acts as a central hub linking trails out toward the Kentmere, Troutbeck, Hayeswater, and Hartsop valleys.

"Occupying a commanding position overlooking four valleys, Thornthwaite Crag is one of the better-known fells of east Kirkstone, owing not a little of its fame to its tall pillar of stones, a landmark for miles around." — A. Wainwright

What makes this summit instantly unmistakable from almost anywhere in the eastern districts is its towering, fourteen-foot columnar stone monument. Known far and wide as Thornthwaite Beacon, this impressive pillar stands like a lone sentinel on the plateau edge. Though it has lost a small amount of its historic height to weather and time over the generations, it remains one of the most magnificent and iconic landmarks in the entire Lake District.

Thornthwaite Beacon tops the fell