10/10/2025
Castle Crag is a neat little hill tucked at the southern tip of Derwentwater, and it’s one of my go-to walks when visitors are up. It’s short, scenic, and packed with atmosphere — think mossy woodland, slate stacks from old mines, dripping caves, and wide-open views that feel much bigger than the hill itself.
We parked in Grange, where there’s easy access to the track leading up. It’s a gentle start, tree-lined and looking properly autumnal, with leaves underfoot and golden light through the canopy. The climb itself isn’t long, but it’s slatey and a bit slippy in places, so take it steady, especially with a mixed group.
As you zigzag your way up, the views open up in every direction, back over Derwentwater, across to Catbells, and down the Borrowdale valley. We took a detour off the main path to explore the cavernous mine entrances, where water drips through the slate and the echo makes it all feel a bit like a secret hideout.
The descent eventually loops back to the same path you came up on. Back in Grange, there’s a great little café that does proper ice cream and cake, essential post-walk recovery, obviously... even in October.
