Grasmoor completes the 20 largest peaks in the Lake District, occupying a position in Wainwright's North Western Fells. It is the largest of the numerous Wainwrights in the Coledale area and commands excellent views as a result. Although the name would suggest a grassy moor, Grasmoor is in fact very rocky, in particular its steep western slopes which plunge down into the valley and Crummock Water below.
From Grasmoor's top, the views are particularly fine. Looking across Crummock Water to the High Stile ridge is a particular highlight, although most of the major fell groups can be seen. Looking South East, much of the Helvellyn ridge can be seen stretching out, while the Scafells stand out too. On clear days the views stretch as far as Belfast, the Scottish mountains in Dumfries and Galloway and the Cheviots. But is undoubtedly the spread of Wainwright fells all around that steals the show.
The most direct route to complete a Grasmoor walk is to climb directly up the screes from Lanthwaite, although this is exceptionally steep and is best for very experienced Lake District walkers, with easier routes available from Braithwaite or Rannerdale. Within a days walking a number of different routes can be taken to complete various peaks from a Wainwright Tick List. A good one of these, taking in multiple peaks around Grasmoor begins and ends at Lanthwaite Green, first climbing Whiteside and Hopegill Head before moving on to Grasmoor. Further Wainwrights can be ticked off as the route continues to Eel Crag and Wandope, with Whiteless Pike the last of the Wainwright fells to be completed in this rewarding Grasmoor walk for Wainwright baggers.
More details on Grasmoor and other Wainwright walks in the region can be read about in detail in Book Six: The Northwestern Fells, by A. Wainwright, part of the Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells.
Grasmoor and Crummock water - Photograph by Stewart Smith Photography
Plan and record your progress through the Wainwright Fells of the Lake District