Bowfell
Bowfell at 902 metres sits at the head of Langdale like a gatekeeper to the high western fells. It is one of the most satisfying summits in the Lake District — a genuine mountain with multiple faces, good rock architecture, and views that extend from Scafell Pike in the west to Windermere in the south-east. The Great Slab on the northern flank is a tilted sheet of volcanic rock that appears during the ascent from Langdale and is unmistakeable. The summit has two cairns and a series of rock outcrops. The view west to Scafell Pike and Scafell is as good as it gets anywhere in the Lakes. East and south-east, the Coniston Fells and Langdale spread below. The descent into the Bowfell Links, a terrace of rock and grass below the summit, is particularly fine in autumn light. Bowfell connects naturally to Crinkle Crags to the south via the Three Tarns col, making it a natural pairing for a long day from Langdale. This is one of the great full-day routes in the Lake District — two serious fells, varied terrain, and a natural circuit.
Walking
The Band from Old Dungeon Ghyll (LA22 9JU, National Trust car park) is the main approach. The Band is a long spur that rises steadily from the valley floor at Stool End Farm to the Three Tarns col. It is relentless rather than dramatic — a sustained 600-metre climb on a good path. From the col, the path swings north and climbs the rocky east face of Bowfell to the summit. Total distance is around 8 miles return with 950 metres of ascent. Allow 6 to 7 hours. The alternative approach via Rossett Gill and Angle Tarn from Mickleden is longer but passes through wilder country. Angle Tarn at 600 metres is one of the most beautiful tarns in the Lakes, and the path from the tarn to Bowfell passes through the Esk Hause junction into genuinely remote terrain. Allow an extra hour. The combination route — up The Band to Bowfell, south along the ridge to Crinkle Crags, and down via Red Tarn and Oxendale back to Langdale — is the classic big day from the valley. Around 10 miles with 1,050 metres of ascent. Start early.
Routes
The Band from Old Dungeon Ghyll
Old Dungeon Ghyll NT car park
Tips
The Band looks dull on a map and is deceptively tiring in reality — sustained ascent on a wide ridge. The Old Dungeon Ghyll hotel (LA22 9JU) is the right place to eat or drink before or after this walk. The Hikers Bar downstairs is basic, friendly, and exactly right. Combining Bowfell and Crinkle Crags in one day is how this part of the Lakes is best experienced — allow 9 to 10 hours and start by 8am.