High Stile

High Stile stands on the north-west ridge of Great Gable, part of the Buttermere fells in the Lake District. It is the highest of three fells that overlook Buttermere village and lake, the others being Red Pike and High Crag. The fell rises to 807 metres and has steep northern slopes with high crags and deep combes. A small tarn, Bleaberry Tarn, lies in one of these combes, shaded for months each winter. The ridge between the three fells is narrow and rocky, with fine views down to the lake. The fell is worth the journey for its dramatic scenery and well-known routes. Alfred Wainwright considered the main ridge top to be the summit, though the highest point lies a little further out on a northern spur. The view from the top includes Ennerdale Water, Crummock Water and the North Western Fells. The remains of a small copper-mine near the shore of Buttermere show past industry in the area. A rock avalanche scar from 11,000 years ago is unique in the Lake District. Visitors find a narrow ridge with two main cairns marking the summit. The northern spur offers the highest point, while the main ridge top is only three feet lower. Paths lead up from Buttermere village to Bleaberry Tarn and Birkness Comb. The tarn itself is shallow and holds trout, though it lies in shadow for much of winter. The surrounding crags and combs give close-up views of the fell’s rough terrain. From the summit, the lakes and fells stretch out in all directions.