Mellbreak [South Top]

Mellbreak stands as a steep-sided island of Skiddaw slate between Crummock Water and the marshy Mosedale valley. While the North Top is the more famous viewpoint, this South Top is the true summit, offering a quieter, expansive outlook toward the High Stile range.

• •The name Mellbreak likely derives from the Old Norse words 'muli', meaning a bold headland or brow, and 'brekka', signifying a hill slope or brink.
• •Geologically, the fell is composed of Skiddaw Slates, which creates its distinctive, sheer profile and the steep scree slopes that fall directly into the depths of Crummock Water.
• •Although the North Top is the most popular destination for its dramatic position, the South Top is the fell’s true highest point, standing roughly five metres taller and situated about half a mile further south.
• •The fell is almost entirely encircled by a 'moat' of low-lying boggy ground and water, which isolates it from the neighbouring Grasmoor group and gives it the character of a standalone mountain.
• •The direct ascent from the north is a notorious lung-buster up loose scree where you'll frequently find yourself taking two steps forward and one slide back toward the Kirkstile Inn.