St Sunday Crag rises high above Patterdale and Grisedale Valley, offering one of the most scenic and adventurous scrambles in the Lake District — the famous Pinnacle Ridge. With its airy ridge climbing, mountain atmosphere, and panoramic views, this route is a favourite for mountaineers and walkers wanting something more exciting than a standard hike.
🧭 St Sunday Crag in 60 Seconds
- Location: Eastern Fells, Patterdale
- Time: 3–5 hours
- Style: Grade 3 scramble (mountaineering)
- Height: 841m summit
- Difficulty: Grade 3 Scramble
- OS Map: Explorer OL5
- Start Point: Patterdale village
- Highlight: Pinnacle Ridge
⚠️ Essential: Helmet, rope if unsure, good navigation.
Route & Access
- Start: Park in Patterdale village.
- Approach: Follow the Grisedale Valley path (45-60 mins).
- Ascent: Climb the Grade 3 scramble up Pinnacle Ridge.
- Summit: Continue to the summit for expansive views.
- Descent: Loop down via Birks or return through Grisedale Valley.
Difficulty & Terrain
- Grade: Grade 3 scramble (exposed but solid).
- Rock: Gritty and generally sound.
- Exposure: Significant — a rope is recommended for the less experienced.
- Fitness: Good hillwalking fitness and a head for heights needed.
Safety & Skills
- This is a serious mountain scramble — good skills and preparation are essential.
- A helmet is strongly advised for loose rock.
- Carry a rope if you are unsure — short-roping is common on Pinnacle Ridge.
- The ridge becomes a serious proposition in wet or icy conditions.
- Excellent navigation skills are essential, especially in mist or 'clag'.
Planning Your Trip
Best Time to Visit
Spring to Autumn: Best for dry rock and clear conditions.
Winter: The ridge can become a winter climbing route under snow and ice.
Summer mornings or evenings offer stunning light over Ullswater.
Getting There & Parking
By Car: Park in Patterdale village (pay-and-display or laybys).
Public Transport: Regular Stagecoach buses run from Penrith to Patterdale.
Facilities & Tips
The nearest toilets, shop, and pubs are in Patterdale. Pinnacle Ridge is not suitable for dogs due to its exposure and steep sections.
Photography Highlights
- Pinnacle Ridge: Classic scrambling silhouette shots.
- Summit: Views across Ullswater, Helvellyn, and Fairfield.
- Golden Hour: Soft light on the ridge for landscape photography.
Leave No Trace
Stick to existing paths to reduce erosion. Keep noise to a minimum, take all litter home, and respect the mountain environment and any nesting birds.
Useful Resources
🗓️ Plan Your Visit to St Sunday Crag
Preparation is essential for a safe and enjoyable day on this classic mountain scramble.
Essential Tips
- Check the weather forecast before heading out.
- Take a helmet, rope (if unsure), and good footwear.
- Navigation matters — the ridge can be hard to find in mist.
- Take all your litter away with you.
Before You Go
- Parking: Patterdale village.
- Facilities: Toilets, shop, and pubs in Patterdale.
- OS Map: Explorer OL5
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Important Disclaimer
Scrambling and mountaineering are hazardous activities. You are responsible for your own safety, route choices, and decisions. Always use appropriate safety equipment and have the necessary skills and experience for the grade.