Haystacks

About

This modest mountain occupies an important position at the head of the Buttermere valley and is surrounded by a diverse and interesting range of peaks. To the south is the towering crags of the Pillar range whilst to the north is the slightly friendlier, but no less grand, hills of the Newlands range and for good measure it stands shoulder to shoulder with Great Gable and High Stile. With such a close-in and extensive panorama you will not be surprised to find out, once you have stood amongst the intimate rocks of its crest, Haystacks was one of Alfred Wainwright's favorite peaks.

The height gain of this walk is not huge, so it's perfectly possible to add a bit more distance to the walk to get it up to get it up to a fuller day, and what better way to do this than a walk through the woods of Birkness and around the shores of the attractive and gentle shores of Buttermere.