Peathill Crag

Rising above the village of Boot in Eskdale, this rugged outcrop offers a quiet alternative to the high Scafell massifs. Listed by Synge for its distinct character, the craggy terrain provides a vantage point over the Esk Valley and the granite-strewn slopes of the southern fells.

• •The name derives from the Old English 'pete', referring to the dark, organic soil found in the surrounding bogs, which was historically harvested by Eskdale locals for fuel.
• •Tim Synge included this summit in his guide to the Lake District, identifying it as a distinct peak worthy of attention despite its proximity to the more dominant mass of Scafell.
• •The crag sits near the ancient corpse road that runs between Boot and Wasdale Head, a historic route once used to transport the deceased for burial at St Catherine's Church in the valley below.
• •From the summit, the view south-west follows the River Esk as it winds towards the Ravenglass estuary, while the bulky profile of Harter Fell dominates the skyline across the valley.
• •In an area dominated by 900-metre giants, Peathill Crag manages to feel substantial mainly because of the significant amount of bog you must negotiate to reach it.