Glaramara

Glaramara is a fell in the English Lake District in Cumbria. It stands as part of a long ridge stretching over six kilometres from Stonethwaite in Borrowdale up to Esk Hause. The summit at 783 metres forms the central point of this ridge, which separates the valleys of Langstrath and Grains Gill. The ridge includes two additional fells, many subsidiary tops and several small tarns. Its name comes from Old Norse and means ‘hill with the mountain hut by a chasm’. The fell’s unusual name now applies to the whole feature rather than just the summit rocks. Glaramara is worth the journey for its dramatic landscape and challenging walks. Alfred Wainwright noted the only natural cave in the Lake District here, the Dove Nest Caves, partly covered by a rock slip. Combe Gill on the northern slopes is a classic hanging valley formed by glacial erosion in the last ice age. The fell’s steep rocky slopes and scree on east and west flanks add to its rugged appeal. The annual Glaramara Fell Race covers eight kilometres with 640 metres of ascent, won in around 47 minutes. Visitors find a ridge rich in summits and views. From the top there is a fine all-round panorama, especially north down Borrowdale towards Skiddaw. Most walkers continue south along the ridge towards Allen Crags, passing subsidiary tops such as Looking Steads and High House Tarn Top. The route from Rosthwaite or Seatoller offers choices of ridges and passes over tops like Combe Door Top and Combe Head. The steep direct ascent from Seathwaite provides a tougher alternative. The fell’s varied terrain and clear paths make it a rewarding destination for walkers.