Combe Door Top

Perched on the rugged northern shoulder of the Glaramara ridge, this rocky top overlooks the impressive hanging valley of The Combe. It offers a wild character typical of the Borrowdale volcanics, providing a grandstand view straight down the length of Borrowdale towards the shimmering waters of Derwentwater and Skiddaw beyond.

• •The 'Combe' in the name derives from the Old English 'cumb', referring to the deep, bowl-shaped valley below, while 'Door' signifies the narrow opening or pass through the crags at the head of the hollow.
• •Though often overlooked in favour of the higher ground to the south, it was categorised as a distinct summit by Tim Synge, who valued its position as a fine viewpoint over the lower Borrowdale fells.
• •Looking north, the summit offers a classic perspective of the 'Jaws of Borrowdale', where the fell-sides of King's How and Castle Crag constrict the valley into a narrow, wooded gateway.
• •The approach from Rosthwaite via the 'nose' of the ridge is a steep, pathless pull through heather and crag, rewarding those who prefer a more visceral, unmanicured experience than the main highway provides.
• •It is the ideal spot to sit and watch the crowds on the main Glaramara path; you get the same view they do, but without the soundtrack of their conversation.