The Western Fells

Great Borne

616m | 2021ft

Great Borne is a fell in the English Lake District with a height of 616 m. It is a rather secluded hill situated at the western end of the long ridge which divides the Ennerdale and Buttermere valleys.

Popular Routes

Great Borne via Ennerdale
Distance: 8.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
This route starts from Bowness Knott car park and follows a well-trodden path through the Ennerdale Forest before ascending the grassy slopes to the summit of Great Borne.
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Great Borne from Buttermere
Distance: 12km
Difficulty: Challenging
A more challenging route that begins in Buttermere, taking you over the rugged terrain of the High Stile range before reaching Great Borne.
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Great Borne Circular from Loweswater
Distance: 10km
Difficulty: Moderate
This circular walk starts from Maggie's Bridge car park, taking you through the scenic Loweswater area and ascending via Floutern Pass to reach Great Borne.
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Parking

Bowness Knott Car Park
A small car park located at the start of the Ennerdale route, providing easy access to the forest trails.
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Maggie's Bridge Car Park
A convenient car park for those starting the circular route from Loweswater.
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Buttermere Village Car Park
A larger car park in Buttermere village, ideal for those taking the challenging route over the High Stile range.
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Public Transport

The nearest train station is in Penrith, from where you can take a bus to Keswick and then a local bus towards Buttermere or Ennerdale.
Limited public transport options directly to the start points.

Closest Towns

Cockermouth
A charming market town located to the north of the Western Fells, offering a range of amenities and accommodation options.
Keswick
A popular tourist town in the Lake District, known for its outdoor shops, cafes, and proximity to many walking routes.

Pubs & Restaurants

The Fish Inn
A traditional pub offering hearty meals and a selection of local ales, perfect for post-walk refreshments.
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The Kirkstile Inn
A historic inn with a cozy atmosphere, serving delicious food and a range of local beers.
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Good to know

Weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, so be prepared for rain and wind even in summer.
Some sections of the routes can be boggy, especially after heavy rain, so waterproof boots are recommended.
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including red squirrels and a range of bird species.