Goat Scar

About Goat Scar

Perched on the undulating ridge between Kentmere and Longsleddale, this grassy Birkett offers a quieter perspective on the Far Eastern Fells. Characterised by the steep, craggy drop-offs to the east that give the hill its name, the summit provides an excellent vantage point over the remote upper reaches of Longsleddale.

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Did You Know?

• •The name follows a common Cumbrian convention where 'scar' refers to a steep, rocky face or cliff, derived from the Old Norse 'skjer'. The prefix likely refers to the feral goats that historically frequented these secluded Lakeland crags.
• •While not classified as a Wainwright, the hill is recognised by both Bill Birkett and Tim Synge as a distinct summit, making it a popular 'bag' for those looking to complete the lesser-known lists of the Lake District.
• •The summit lies just off the main ridge path connecting Shipman Knotts to Kentmere Pike. A sturdy drystone wall—a characteristic feature of these eastern fells—runs along the spine of the ridge nearby, acting as a reliable navigational handrail.
• •The view to the north is dominated by the massive southern face of Harter Fell and the steep zig-zags of the Gatescarth Pass, an ancient track that historically linked the two valleys for peat and slate transport.
• •Despite the name, you are far more likely to find yourself sharing the summit with a few hardy Swaledale sheep than a mountain goat.