Andrew Chick Ecology

Grassmoor is one of the major fells of the north-western Lake District, rising to 852 metres (2,795 feet) above the western shore of Crummock Water. Its broad, imposing profile dominates the landscape around Buttermere and Lorton and, despite its name, much of the fell is characterised by steep rocky slopes, crags and extensive areas of upland heath and grassland.

The fell forms the highest point of a substantial group of hills that includes Whiteless Pike, Wandope and Hopegill Head. Several routes lead to the summit, with approaches possible from Lanthwaite Green, Buttermere and the surrounding valleys. The ascent can be steep, particularly from the Crummock Water side, but the broad summit provides extensive views across the western Lake District, towards the Solway Firth and, in clear conditions, southern Scotland.

Grassmoor is also of considerable natural-history interest. Its mixture of crags, scree, upland grassland, heath and wetter flushes provides habitats for a range of characteristic Lakeland wildlife. The higher ground supports typical upland plants, while the crags and less accessible slopes provide opportunities for specialist montane vegetation. Birds associated with the surrounding fells can include Raven (photo below), Peregrine, Ring Ouzel, Wheatear and, during the summer, Meadow Pipit and Skylark.

Although overshadowed in popularity by some of the better-known central Lakeland peaks, Grassmoor has a distinctly wild character. Its combination of height, steep western slopes and relatively remote upland plateau makes it one of the most impressive fells overlooking the Buttermere and Crummock Water valleys.