Lake District
High Spy North Top
634M
2080FT
About High Spy North Top
Situated on the broad, craggy ridge between Borrowdale and the Newlands Valley, this Nuttall offers a quieter perspective than the main summit. The terrain is typical of the North Western fells—stony paths through heather and grass—leading to a cairn with a commanding look down into the depths of Newlands.
Key Statistics
Rank
224th Highest in Region
Parent Range
North Western Fells
Prominence
?
16m
Nearest Town
Grange
Geology
You are walking over ancient volcanic lava and layers of hardened mud. This landscape was shaped by prehistoric eruptions and compressed volcanic sand.
Classifications
Find It
OS Grid Reference
NY236171
Latitude
54.5435°N
Longitude
3.1812°W
Did You Know?
- •The name 'Spy' is derived from the Middle English 'spie', meaning a lookout or watch point. Given its position overlooking two major valleys, the ridge served as a natural vantage point for shepherds and travellers alike.
- •While the main summit of High Spy is a Wainwright, this specific North Top is distinguished as a Nuttall and a Synge, sitting at 634 metres on the edge of the plateau.
- •The view north from this point provides a superior angle on the Vale of Keswick compared to the main summit, with the massive forms of Skiddaw and Blencathra framed perfectly by the narrowing of the Newlands Valley.
- •Walking between this top and the main summit involves crossing the 'Bleathwaite Post' area, which can be notoriously spongy and boggy after a typical Cumbrian downpour.
- •It is the ideal spot to stop if you find the main summit of High Spy too crowded, though 'crowded' on this high ridge usually means having to share the view with more than two sheep.