Baystones [Wansfell]

While most walkers stop at Wansfell Pike for the classic Windermere view, the true summit lies a short, often boggy stroll northeast at Baystones. It offers a much quieter perspective on the Ill Bell ridge and the Far Eastern fells than its busy neighbor.

• •The name Wansfell likely derives from the Old Norse 'Vondr', meaning a wand or switch, though some local folklore historically linked the fell to the Norse god Woden.
• •Baystones is the definitive high point of the Wansfell massif at 487 metres, making it the official Wainwright summit despite being frequently ignored by those visiting the lower Wansfell Pike.
• •The fell is composed of Silurian siltstones and sandstones from the Windermere Supergroup, which results in a smoother, more rounded topography compared to the craggy volcanic rocks of the Scafells.
• •A popular ascent from Ambleside involves climbing the 'Thousand Foot'—a steep, relentless stone staircase that begins near the impressive 70-foot drop of Stock Ghyll Force waterfall.
• •The short stretch of ground between the popular Pike and the actual summit at Baystones is a notorious peat trap, where hikers often learn the hard way that 'green' doesn't always mean 'solid ground'.