Dollywaggon Pike

Dollywaggon Pike is a fell in the English Lake District. It stands on the main ridge of the Helvellyn range in the Eastern Fells, between Thirlmere and the Ullswater catchment. The fell is the southernmost of the ridge, with Nethermost Pike to the north and High Crag nearby. The western slopes are grassy and gentle, while the eastern side is steep and rocky. The fell’s name may come from Old Norse words meaning ‘lifted fiend’ or ‘giant’. Two spellings exist, but ‘Dollywaggon Pike’ is most widely used. The contrast between the fell’s sides makes it worth the journey. The eastern face drops into deep corries like Ruthwaite Cove and Cock Cove, both once mined for lead and copper. Grisedale Tarn, a sizeable mountain lake, lies south of the summit and drains into Ullswater. The Tongue, a rocky ridge, leads directly to the summit, offering a striking ascent. The fell’s drainage once reached three different seas, a rare feature among Lakeland fells. Remains of old mine workings can still be seen on the eastern slopes. A visitor finds a small grassy summit with a cairn and wide views. The Tongue ridge provides a dramatic climb with rocky steps and crags. To the east, Ruthwaite Cove holds a climbing hut and old mine scars. Grisedale Tarn, below the southern slopes, is home to brown trout and perch. The eastern corries and crags give a sense of rugged wildness. Walkers often continue north to Nethermost Pike or south to Fairfield via Seat Sandal. The contrast between the fell’s gentle and savage sides makes it a memorable place.