Looking across to the broad spine of High Spy as captured from Dale Head

High Spy

Height653m (2,142ft)

Prominence148m (486ft)

RegionNorth Western Fells

Climbed3 Times

High Spy occupies a prominent position on the high, undulating ridge line separating the quiet expanses of the Newlands Valley from the rugged trench of Borrowdale. Reaching an elevation of 653 metres, the mountain features an array of defensive crags cutting down both its eastern and western flanks, ensuring a steep and dramatic drop-off into the valley floors below. The true origin of the fell's name remains somewhat obscure to historians, but it is widely believed to translate to a “lookout post”, potentially hinting at a long-lost fortification or watchpoint that once guarded these high passes.

"The middle reaches of Borrowdale are bounded on the west by high fellsides, colourful and attractive side-curtains that contribute much to the beauty of the valley. The culminating point on a top of fairly uniform height is High Spy." — Wainwright 1957, Book Two

The true high point is marked by an exceptionally large and impressive stone monument. This iconic summit cairn has unfortunately been target to occasional vandalism over the years, yet it stands as a testament to the fellwalking community, always seemingly rebuilt to its full glory by passing walkers. Because the immediate plateau is so broad, the most spectacular perspectives look backwards along the ridge, offering a brilliant view facing the towering, broken rock faces of Dale Head and Hindscarth.

The substantial, hand-stacked stone cairn marking the true summit of High Spy

Trip Reports

The Newlands Round14/10/2018

Cat Bells, Maiden Moor, High Spy & Castle Crag03/03/2018

A Newlands Round22/08/2014

Return to Lake District – North Western Fells