Watch Hill

About Watch Hill

Often called Cockermouth's fell, Watch Hill is a lovely little ramble and one of Wainwright's Outlying Fells. It's a perfect leg-stretcher if you're in the area, offering surprisingly wide-ranging views for such a modest climb, stretching all the way to Scotland.

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Did You Know?

• •The name 'Watch Hill' gives a hefty clue to its historic purpose as a lookout post, likely for Cockermouth Castle. Its strategic position offered clear views over the town and surrounding lands, making it an ideal spot to spot any approaching trouble.
• •This modest hill holds a special place in the hearts of many walkers as it's featured in Wainwright's 'The Outlying Fells of Lakeland'. Bagging this one is a great way to start your journey into completing all of Wainwright's lesser-known, but equally charming, summits.
• •Don't be fooled by its low altitude; the panorama from the top is genuinely impressive on a clear day. You can gaze north across the Solway Firth to the hills of Dumfries and Galloway in Scotland, and south to the mighty Grasmoor and Skiddaw ranges.
• •The summit area can be a bit of a puzzle, with a few different tops vying for your attention. The official summit is marked by a trig point, but the adjacent top, Setmurthy Common, is actually a few metres higher, though Wainwright chose the trig point for his guide.
• •Being so close to Cockermouth, this is very much a local's hill, popular with dog walkers and families out for a bit of fresh air. It feels a world away from the busy central fells, offering a slice of quiet Lakeland life just a stone's throw from the town.