Walla Crag
experience incredible views over Keswick and Derwentwater
Borrowdale Road, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5UP
Visit WebsiteWalla Crag is one of the smaller Wainwrights. At 379m, it’s practically diminutive compared to the heights of Scafell Pike (978m), England’s highest peak and also a Wainwright. But there’s something special about this little fell just south of Keswick.
- Children Welcome
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
Walla Crag is one of the more ‘dog friendly’ Wainwrights, with woodland covering the lower slopes which is perfect to let your dog have a run off lead: a rarity in the Lake District, where many of the open fell sides are grazed by sheep, cattle, or even the elusive fell ponies (the Back O’ Skiddaw is where we’ve spotted them before).
The real reason you’ll want to head up Walla Crag, however, is the outstanding view from the summit. It’s nothing short of panoramic. For a reasonably steady climb, you are rewarded with an incredible vista over Keswick and Derwentwater, with the central fells across the water providing a dramatic mountain vista to top it all off.
From the summit, you can descend back through the woods to the car park (steep in places), or continue on to Bleaberry Fell to bag another Wainwright (once you’ve done one, we guarantee you’ll want to do them all – it’s addictive).
After your walk, head into Keswick, one of the most dog friendly towns in the UK. It’s even been awarded the accolade of ‘most dog friendly town’ three years in a row by the Kennel Club! Jasper’s Coffee House is a great dog friendly café where you can pick up lunch, or head into one of the many, many outdoor shops (lots of which are dog friendly) to treat yourself (and your pooch) to some new gear for your next adventure.
For The Dogs
Bring leads, poop bags and water.
Opening Hours
There are no opening hours as such but daylight hours are recommended.
Parking
Park at the National Trust Great Wood car park, Borrowdale Road, Keswick, CA12 5UP. It’s a pay & display car park but free for National Trust members.
The Area
Despite the millions of visitors every year, it’s not hard to find peace and quiet in the Lakes. Head up a hill and chances are, within twenty minutes there won’t be a person in sight (although there may be plenty of sheep). Some of our favourite walks for getting away from it all are Lanty’s Tarn near Glenridding, Dodd Fell near Keswick, and Nether Wasdale in the remote western valleys of the Lakes. All of these walks are relatively short and achievable for anyone with a basic level of fitness. If you want more of a challenge, set your sights on Great Gable, Pillar or the Langdale Pikes.
For more walks, pubs and places to stay, see our guide to dog friendly Cumbria & the Lake District.