The steep pyramid of The Nab

The Nab

Height576m (1,890ft)

Prominence61m (200ft)

RegionFar Eastern Fells

Climbed1 Time

The Nab stands out as a true character of the landscape, often compared to the iconic "Dodds" found near Kirkstonefoot. From the pastures of Martindale, it is seen as a striking, steep-sided wedge that splits the valley into two distinct branches, rising in symmetrical, slender lines toward its summit.

"The Nab is a character, akin to the three Dodds around Kirkstonefoot. Very steep-sided, soaring in symmetrical lines to a slender cone, it appears from the pastures of Martindale as a lofty wedge splitting the valley into two branches." — A. Wainwright

For many years, this area—once part of the Martindale Deer Forest—remained strictly out of bounds to the public. Today, it is fully accessible under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. Because it is somewhat awkward to reach and occupies a quieter corner of the eastern fells, it is most often visited by those dedicated to completing their full set of "Wainwright" summits.

The modest cairn on the summit

While the summit's southern outlook is partially restricted by higher ground, the fell offers a rewarding, end-to-end perspective of the Helvellyn range, which can be seen unfolding impressively above the Angletarn Pikes.

Trip Reports

The East Martindale Fells05/04/2014

Return to Far Eastern Fells