Ullock Pike

Ullock Pike is the first prominent peak on the celebrated Longside Edge ridge. It offers one of the most exhilarating and airy approaches in the Northern Fells, providing a sharp, defined climb that serves as a far more interesting alternative to the slog up Skiddaw’s main tourist path.

• •The fell is primarily composed of Skiddaw Slate, which is among the oldest rock in the Lake District, dating back approximately 500 million years to the Ordovician period.
• •The name 'Ullock' likely originates from the Old Norse 'ulfr-clocc,' which translates to 'wolf-hill' or 'howl-place,' hinting at the historical presence of wolves in these fells.
• •Most hikers reach the summit via 'The Edge,' a narrow and steep ridge from High Side that provides continuous, unobstructed views across Bassenthwaite Lake toward the North Western fells.
• •From the summit, you can clearly see the nesting sites used by Ospreys near the shores of Bassenthwaite; these birds of prey famously returned to breed here in 2001 after a 150-year absence.
• •While the ridge feels like a major achievement, reaching the top of Ullock Pike often delivers a blow to the ego as you realize Skiddaw’s massive, scree-covered summit still looms 240 meters higher, looking down on you like a judgmental schoolmaster.