Pillar

Pillar is a summit rising to 892 meters between Ennerdale valley to the north and Wasdale valley to the south in the Western Fells of Lake District. The rock formation on its slopes creates a distinctive vertical feature visible across the surrounding valleys.

The location became known to climbers from 1826 onwards following the first recorded ascent of the rock face. This climb marked the beginning of rock climbing as an organized sport in the Lake District region.

The mountain's name comes from the distinctive rock pillar visible on its slopes, a formation that has drawn attention from writers and climbers for generations. This striking feature has shaped how local people and visitors understand and describe the landscape.

The summit can be reached via several walking routes starting from different valleys, each offering varied terrain and difficulty levels. Visitors should bring waterproof clothing and navigation tools as conditions change rapidly in the mountains.

The slopes contain over 90 established climbing routes serving all skill levels from beginners to experienced mountaineers. An Ordnance Survey triangulation column stands at the summit alongside a cairn, marking its historical importance for British surveying.

Location: Cumbria

Elevation above the sea: 892 m

GPS coordinates: 54.49748,-3.28118

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:49