Where is this walk?

Hen Comb from Buttermere

March 26, 2018

The climb of Hen Comb from Buttermere is an interesting walk to a rarely visited Lakeland fell hidden between Crummock Water and Ennerdale. The return via the beautiful west shores of Crummock water is lovely.

The Walk

This is one of those rare breeds, a remote walk which is full of interest but right in the heart of the Lake District. Whilst the crowds stopping at Buttermere are heading up Red Pike, Haystacks or Grasmoor (all steep but rewarding climbs) the solitary walkers looking for some peace heads north west in to Mosedale. Hen Comb is a graceful fell which is probably only ever be climbed by Wainwright baggers. However it is well worth climbing by more discerning walkers. The walk is best combined with a return via Crummock Water. The shoreline here is quiet and most enjoyable.

I climbed Hen Comb and completed the walk in rapidly deteriorating weather conditions. I am afraid this explains the generally poor photography. The approach to the foot of Hen Comb was wet and trackless. From here it is a steady climb alongside a fence to the small summit plateau. Unfortunately at the summit of Hen Comb driving rain dampened my enthusiasm (the photos of Crummock Water are from a previous walk). From the foot of Hen Comb it is a short crossing on a good path to the lakeside. The only danger is becoming distracted by the excellent pub at Loweswater.

Recommend

A few additional temptations, Scale Force on the first climb, a peep over to Ennerdale from Floutern Tarn and a packed lunch on the summit of Hen Comb.

Navigation Tips on Hen Comb from Buttermere

On approaching Hen Comb from Crummock Water on the bridleway wait till you arrive at a fence. The path up Hen Comb starts here and coming this far avoids the worst of the wet ground.

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