These 10 Lake District fells serve up the most photogenic summit shots in the national park. Dramatic views, epic cairns, and perfect panoramas for your next hike.
You’ve slogged your way to the top. Your boots are caked in mud. Your quads are cooked. And then—just as the wind dies down and the cloud lifts—you see it. That jaw-dropping view that makes the entire climb worth it.
And of course, you want the photo. Whether it’s for Instagram, your hiking log, or just something to remember the day, a great summit shot is part of the peak bagging ritual.
The Lake District is full of fells, but not all of them are created equal when it comes to summit scenery. These 10 deliver the drama—and the backdrop—for unforgettable summit moments.
Why it’s epic:
Blencathra’s sweeping summit ridge looks incredible in any light, but what makes it pop is the view back over Sharp Edge—a narrow, photogenic arête that looks far gnarlier in photos than it feels (for confident scramblers).
Top Tip: Head up early in golden hour for side lighting on the ridge. It’s a photo magnet.
Why it’s epic:
Catbells is the Lake District’s gateway fell, and the views over Derwentwater and Skiddaw are unbeatable for the effort involved. There’s even a classic summit cairn that practically begs for a victory pose.
Top Tip: Go early morning or late evening to avoid the family crowds and get clean light on the water.
Why it’s epic:
Wainwright’s favourite—and when you stand at the top looking over Buttermere and Innominate Tarn, it’s easy to see why. Perfect for moody days or catching a burst of sun through the clouds.
Top Tip: If you’re into slower hiking, bring a camera with a zoom lens—this one rewards patience and framing.
Why it’s epic:
It’s one of the most walked fells in the Lakes for a reason. Striding Edge offers all the drama, while the summit plateau gives space to play with wide-angle shots.
Top Tip: Photograph your walking buddy on the final approach to the summit cairn with the ridge stretching behind them.
Why it’s epic:
Summit shots don’t get better than this. Stand on the edge and look down the full length of Buttermere with the fells wrapping around it. Best taken in the golden light of early evening.
Top Tip: A small tripod makes all the difference here—frame yourself with the lake behind you.
Why it’s epic:
The summit itself is sharp and craggy, and the views over Coledale and Skiddaw make for layered, expansive shots with loads of depth.
Top Tip: This one is a cloud magnet—aim for clear forecast days.
Why it’s epic:
Great Gable gives you the best seat in the house—views of Scafell Pike, Wasdale Head, and even glimpses out to the coast on a clear day.
Top Tip: Climb at sunrise for full drama, but bring a torch and know your way back.
Why it’s epic:
A perfect short hike with huge reward. Look down onto Derwentwater with the full Skiddaw massif looming behind. Ideal if you’re chasing golden hour but don’t want to hike for hours.
Top Tip: Ideal for golden hour shots with backlit water—especially in autumn.
Why it’s epic:
High Street is broad and open, but the views toward Blea Water and the eastern edges of the Lakes are striking. Feels remote and ancient—great for wild-feeling summit shots.
Top Tip: Blea Water is one of the most photogenic tarns in the Lakes. Detour for the shot.
Why it’s epic:
That knobbly summit profile makes for distinctive summit selfies, and the backdrop of Newlands Valley and Derwentwater adds drama.
Top Tip: Use the rocky summit to frame interesting foreground shots. Best in side light.
The Lake District isn’t short on fells—but if you’re after that one summit photo that makes people stop scrolling, these are the ones to head for. Dramatic ridges, perfect cairns, and wide open vistas make for the kind of summit shots you’ll want to keep forever.
📲 Don’t forget—you can log all your summit ticks and photo spots in the Peaky Baggers app, and even attach your best shots to your completed routes. Because the view deserves to live somewhere better than your phone gallery.
Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash
