The iconic view of Pavey Ark above Stickle Tarn

Pavey Ark

Height700m (2,297ft)

Prominence15m (49ft)

RegionCentral Fells

Climbed4 Times

"Pavey Ark is Langdale's biggest cliff. In an area where crags and precipices abound, here is the giant of them all, and, scenically, it is the best. The view of the Ark across Stickle Tarn, at its foot, is superior to all others of this type in Lakeland." — A. Wainwright

Forming the largest and most imposing rock face in Great Langdale, Pavey Ark is legendary amongst Lakeland walkers and scramblers alike. Its massive east-facing precipice drops directly into the dark waters of Stickle Tarn, providing the setting for Jack's Rake—one of the most celebrated and exhilarating Grade 1 scrambling routes in the National Park.

While the view from the tarn gives the impression of a sharp, dramatic ridge continuing toward Harrison Stickle, the rear of the fell merges smoothly into an undulating high tableland rising towards Thunacar Knott and High Raise.

The summit rocks

The high point is unadorned by a constructed cairn, marked simply by a bare rocky outcrop perched directly on the cliff edge. Positioned high above the waters of Stickle Tarn, the summit commands dramatic, plunging vistas straight down into Great Langdale and across to the Southern Fells beyond.