Mountain Weather

High Crag (Buttermere) weather forecast.

745 m summit in Lake District. 8 forecast days covering wind, cloud, rain and temperature, updated 20 September 2026 at 16:08 UTC.

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Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather47/100Poor
Wind15-35 mph westerly Gusts40-50 mph Feels like-2 to 2°C PrecipitationLittle or none Cloud-free summit estimate50% Cloud base through day500-1,100 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 06:54 · Sunset 19:17 · 12.4 hours daylight

The day on the hill

On High Crag (Buttermere): summit wind broadly 15-35 mph, with gusts 40-50 mph at times (strong winds).

Wind & exposure

Much calmer lower down - generally 10-20 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.

Cloud & views

Cloud base around 500–800 m in the morning, lifting to 800–1100 m around midday. The top is likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a view from late afternoon into the evening.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Cloud may hang lower on western slopes and lift somewhat on the eastern side, but local terrain can differ. Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud.

Rain & temperature

The ground is likely to be wet after recent rain. Little or no rain is forecast.

Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 4 to 8°C, feeling around -2 to 2°C in the wind.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. A windproof layer will help, with an extra warm layer for stops.

Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud, even where forecasts agree on the wider cloud cover.

Cloud-free timing: Around 30% early, improving to around 75% later.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 1.1 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Early
0 h
Midday
Less than 1 hour
Later
1 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Poor Summit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges.
30/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Mixed Summit winds around 15-25 mph. Gusts around 25-35 mph are possible on exposed ground.
64/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA broadly promising night on a well-chosen pitch. 85/100Excellent · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Sunday 20 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Open-hillside camping looks promising overall around 600 m (85/100). It may be breezy on open ground, with gusts near 25 mph. Little overnight rain is forecast. Some condensation is possible overnight.

Overnight rain0.2 mm Open ground · 600 m13 mph · gusts 23 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 6°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waxing gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
70%
Moonrise
17:24 BST
Moonset
00:01 next morning BST

Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 20 Sep, 17:00 BST to 21 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

Elevation reference (open ground)

300 m87/100 · promising
Wind / gust
11 mph / 19 mph
Typical / low
9.3°C / 9.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m85/100 · promising
Wind / gust
13 mph / 23 mph
Typical / low
9.3°C / 9.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 6°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaRock may be damp or still drying. Gusts near 40 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. Poor38/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look poor (38/100). Some rock may still be damp or drying, especially on polished slabs and vegetated sections. The mapped summit rock is Andesite (Birker Fell Andesite Formation). Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Granophyric granite, Mudstone and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 40 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious.

Rock surfaceDamp or dryingPeak gust40 mphRain0.0 mm
Main factorsgusts around 40 mphdamp or incompletely dried rock possible
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Low confidence
View the summit BGS record

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Wainwright High Stile Ridge

granite, gneiss or gabbro, slate or mudstone, volcanic rock, sandstone or gritstone

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

4 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation 629–718 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Granophyric granite Ennerdale Intrusion 283–530 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Mudstone Buttermere Formation 100–359 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often positive when dry, but smooth, polished or slabby sections can become markedly more slippery when damp.

BGS record
Route sample Volcaniclastic rocks (both pyroclastic and reworked volcanic rocks Eagle Crag Sandstone Member Around 804 m Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Usually rough and grippy when dry. Damp sandstone and gritstone can feel greasy, and saturated sandstone may be weakened, so let the rock dry fully.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about High Crag (Buttermere) on Sunday 20 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather44/100Poor
Wind10-25 mph southwesterly Gusts20-30 mph Feels like4 to 8°C PrecipitationUp to around 2 mm Cloud-free summit estimate40% Cloud base through day600-900 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 06:55 · Sunset 19:15 · 12.3 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Frequent summit cloud on High Crag (Buttermere): summit wind broadly 10-25 mph, with gusts 20-30 mph at times (a fresh breeze). Hill cloud may make navigation difficult, with very poor visibility in wetter spells.

Cloud & views

Cloud base mostly around 600–900 m through daylight. Summit cloud is likely, but brief clear spells remain possible if the cloud sits higher than expected.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Cloud may hang lower on southwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the northeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Very little direct sunshine is likely, with extensive cloud.

Drizzle is forecast for much of the day. The forecast total is up to around 2 mm, but local amounts will vary.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud, even where forecasts agree on the wider cloud cover.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 0 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Early
0 h
Midday
0 h
Later
0 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Poor Summit winds around 15-25 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
47/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Poor Summit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
42/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaAbout 1 mm is forecast, with rain liable to affect both pitching and packing up. 64/100Mixed · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Monday 21 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Open-hillside camping looks reasonable overall around 600 m (64/100). It may be breezy on open ground, with gusts near 20 mph. Around 1 mm is forecast, with rain liable to affect both pitching and packing up. Condensation risk is high near 300 and 600 m, so a wet pack-up is possible. Ventilation will matter.

Overnight rain1.0 mm Open ground · 600 m13 mph · gusts 20 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 10°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waxing gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
78%
Moonrise
17:45 BST
Moonset
01:19 next morning BST

Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 21 Sep, 17:00 BST to 22 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

Elevation reference (open ground)

300 m64/100 · reasonable
Wind / gust
11 mph / 17 mph
Typical / low
13.0°C / 12.7°C
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m64/100 · reasonable
Wind / gust
13 mph / 20 mph
Typical / low
13.0°C / 12.7°C
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 2-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 10°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Poor25/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look poor (25/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Andesite (Birker Fell Andesite Formation). Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Granophyric granite, Mudstone and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust27 mphRain1.7 mm
Main factorswet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Low confidence
View the summit BGS record

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Wainwright High Stile Ridge

granite, gneiss or gabbro, slate or mudstone, volcanic rock, sandstone or gritstone

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

4 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation 629–718 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Granophyric granite Ennerdale Intrusion 283–530 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Mudstone Buttermere Formation 100–359 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often positive when dry, but smooth, polished or slabby sections can become markedly more slippery when damp.

BGS record
Route sample Volcaniclastic rocks (both pyroclastic and reworked volcanic rocks Eagle Crag Sandstone Member Around 804 m Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Usually rough and grippy when dry. Damp sandstone and gritstone can feel greasy, and saturated sandstone may be weakened, so let the rock dry fully.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about High Crag (Buttermere) on Monday 21 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather51/100Mixed
Wind10-20 mph southwesterly Gusts20-30 mph Feels like8 to 12°C PrecipitationUp to around 2 mm Cloud-free summit estimate40% Cloud base through day600-900 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 06:57 · Sunset 19:12 · 12.2 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Frequent summit cloud on High Crag (Buttermere): summit wind broadly 10-20 mph, with gusts 20-30 mph at times (a moderate breeze). Hill cloud may make navigation difficult, with very poor visibility in wetter spells.

Cloud & views

Cloud base mostly around 600–900 m through daylight. Summit cloud is likely, but brief clear spells remain possible if the cloud sits higher than expected.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Cloud may hang lower on southwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the northeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Any sunshine may be confined to lower ground or breaks away from the summit.

Drizzle is forecast at times. The forecast total is up to around 2 mm, but local amounts will vary.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud, even where forecasts agree on the wider cloud cover.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 2.5 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.

Early
0 h
Midday
Less than 1 hour
Later
0.8 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Poor Summit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
46/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Mixed Summit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground.
56/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaAbout 7.4 mm is forecast, with rain possible around pack-up. 59/100Mixed · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Tuesday 22 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Open-hillside camping looks mixed overall around 600 m (59/100). It may be breezy on open ground, with gusts near 20 mph. Roughly 7.4 mm is forecast overnight, including rain around pack-up. Condensation risk is high near 300 and 600 m, so a wet pack-up is possible. Ventilation will matter.

Overnight rain7.4 mm Open ground · 600 m13 mph · gusts 22 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 8°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waxing gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
86%
Moonrise
18:00 BST
Moonset
02:40 next morning BST

Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 22 Sep, 17:00 BST to 23 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

Elevation reference (open ground)

300 m59/100 · mixed
Wind / gust
11 mph / 18 mph
Typical / low
11.9°C / 11.7°C
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m59/100 · mixed
Wind / gust
13 mph / 22 mph
Typical / low
11.9°C / 11.7°C
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 2-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 8°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Poor34/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look poor (34/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Andesite (Birker Fell Andesite Formation). Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Granophyric granite, Mudstone and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust20 mphRain0.9 mm
Main factorswet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Low confidence
View the summit BGS record

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Wainwright High Stile Ridge

granite, gneiss or gabbro, slate or mudstone, volcanic rock, sandstone or gritstone

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

4 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation 629–718 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Granophyric granite Ennerdale Intrusion 283–530 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Mudstone Buttermere Formation 100–359 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often positive when dry, but smooth, polished or slabby sections can become markedly more slippery when damp.

BGS record
Route sample Volcaniclastic rocks (both pyroclastic and reworked volcanic rocks Eagle Crag Sandstone Member Around 804 m Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Usually rough and grippy when dry. Damp sandstone and gritstone can feel greasy, and saturated sandstone may be weakened, so let the rock dry fully.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about High Crag (Buttermere) on Tuesday 22 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather28/100Poor
Wind10-25 mph northwesterly Gusts20-30 mph Feels like2 to 6°C PrecipitationAround 20-40 mm Cloud-free summit estimate60% Cloud base through day600-1,600 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 06:59 · Sunset 19:10 · 12.2 hours daylight

The day on the hill

On High Crag (Buttermere): summit wind broadly 10-25 mph, with gusts 20-30 mph at times (a fresh breeze). Visibility may drop briefly in showers.

Things to watch

Severe spate risk through much of the day and into the evening, with forecast rain and subsequent runoff. Timings are approximate, not a guarantee of safe crossings afterwards. Burns and unbridged crossings may become difficult or impassable. Turn back if a crossing looks unsafe.

Cloud & views

Cloud base around 600–900 m through the morning, lifting to 1300–1600 m by late afternoon. The top is likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a view from late afternoon into the evening.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Cloud may hang lower on northwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the southeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud.

Rain & temperature

Rain and drizzle are forecast for much of the day, with some passing showers too. Some showers could be heavy.

The forecast total is around 20-40 mm, but local amounts will vary. Forecast models differ on summit wind strength: around 16-25 mph at walker height, with gusts 22-36 mph.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Exposed tops may feel chilly in the wind.

A windproof layer will help, with an extra warm layer for stops. If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly.

Keep a dry warm layer protected. Forecast models differ on whether meaningful rain reaches the hills during the morning.

Cloud-free timing: Around 35% early, improving to around 95% later.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 4.2 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Early
0 h
Midday
Less than 1 hour
Later
3 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Poor Summit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is forecast during the morning, but models differ considerably on the amount.
26/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Poor Summit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later. Rain is forecast during this period. Some forecast models bring rain during the afternoon, while others keep it mostly dry.
30/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaConditions look very good, but forecast uncertainty caps the grade at 88/100. 88/100Excellent · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Wednesday 23 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Open-hillside camping looks very good overall around 600 m (88/100). It may be breezy on open ground, with gusts near 25 mph. Little overnight rain is forecast. Forecast models are not closely enough agreed for an exceptional grade. The grade is capped at 88/100.

Overnight rain0.0 mm Open ground · 600 m9 mph · gusts 24 mph Morning pack-upNo wet signal Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 4°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waxing gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
92%
Moonrise
18:12 BST
Moonset
04:01 next morning BST

Views of the Moon may come and go through cloud breaks. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 23 Sep, 17:00 BST to 24 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

Elevation reference (open ground)

300 m88/100 · very good
Wind / gust
8 mph / 20 mph
Typical / low
8.1°C / 7.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Low
600 m88/100 · very good
Wind / gust
9 mph / 24 mph
Typical / low
8.1°C / 7.3°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Low

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Poor15/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (15/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Andesite (Birker Fell Andesite Formation). Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Granophyric granite, Mudstone and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust27 mphRain23.8 mm
Main factorswet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Low confidence
View the summit BGS record

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Wainwright High Stile Ridge

granite, gneiss or gabbro, slate or mudstone, volcanic rock, sandstone or gritstone

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

4 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation 629–718 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Granophyric granite Ennerdale Intrusion 283–530 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Mudstone Buttermere Formation 100–359 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often positive when dry, but smooth, polished or slabby sections can become markedly more slippery when damp.

BGS record
Route sample Volcaniclastic rocks (both pyroclastic and reworked volcanic rocks Eagle Crag Sandstone Member Around 804 m Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Usually rough and grippy when dry. Damp sandstone and gritstone can feel greasy, and saturated sandstone may be weakened, so let the rock dry fully.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about High Crag (Buttermere) on Wednesday 23 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather62/100Mixed
Wind20-40 mph southwesterly Gusts45-55 mph Feels like0 to 4°C PrecipitationLittle or none Cloud-free summit estimate95% Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:01 · Sunset 19:07 · 12.1 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Strong gusts on High Crag (Buttermere): summit wind broadly 20-40 mph, with gusts 45-55 mph at times (strong winds).

Wind & exposure

Much calmer lower down - generally 0-10 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind.

Cloud & views

Cloud base around 1000–1300 m in the morning, then around 1600–1900 m around midday and 1400–1700 m by late afternoon. The summit is likely to stay mostly clear.

Rain & temperature

The ground is likely to be saturated after recent rain. Expect boggy paths and rapid runoff if more rain arrives.

Little or no rain is forecast. Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 4 to 8°C, feeling around 0 to 4°C in the wind.

Forecast models differ on summit wind strength: around 22-42 mph at walker height, with gusts 30-60 mph. A windproof layer will help, with an extra warm layer for stops.

Forecast confidence

Summit wind could be roughly 22-42 mph, which changes how difficult exposed walking may feel.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 7.9 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Early
0.8 h
Midday
4 h
Later
1.1 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Good Summit winds around 5-15 mph early in the morning, strengthening to 15-25 mph later. Gusts around 25-35 mph are possible on exposed ground.
70/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Mixed Winds strengthen compared with the morning. Summit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges.
53/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 600 m: gusts may reach about 45 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 35 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. 19/100Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Thursday 24 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Exposed camping is not recommended near 600 m: gusts may reach about 45 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 35 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Open-hillside camping looks very poor overall around 600 m (19/100). Peak gusts range from about 40 mph at 300 m to 45 mph at 600 m. Wind direction may change substantially during the night. Shelter that works at dusk may be less effective later. Roughly 9.3 mm is forecast overnight, including rain around pack-up. Pitches near 600 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 300 and 600 m. Ventilation will matter.

Overnight rain9.3 mm Open ground · 600 m29 mph · gusts 46 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 6°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waxing gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
97%
Moonrise
18:21 BST
Moonset
05:22 next morning BST

Cloud at the reference camping height may hide the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 24 Sep, 17:00 BST to 25 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

Elevation reference (open ground)

300 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
24 mph / 38 mph
Typical / low
10.8°C / 7.8°C · a brief spell
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m19/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
29 mph / 46 mph
Typical / low
10.8°C / 7.7°C · a brief spell
In cloud
67% of modelled night
Condensation
High

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 6°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

The ground is likely to be very wet after recent rain. Expect boggy approaches and choose a durable pitch carefully.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaRock may be damp or still drying. Gusts near 45 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. Poor19/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (19/100). Recent rain may leave seepage and damp rock, especially on shaded sections. The mapped summit rock is Andesite (Birker Fell Andesite Formation). Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Granophyric granite, Mudstone and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 45 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious.

Rock surfaceDry overhead; seepage uncertainPeak gust46 mphRainPossible · 48%
Main factorsgusts around 45 mphdamp or incompletely dried rock possible
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Low confidence
View the summit BGS record

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Wainwright High Stile Ridge

granite, gneiss or gabbro, slate or mudstone, volcanic rock, sandstone or gritstone

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

4 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation 629–718 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Granophyric granite Ennerdale Intrusion 283–530 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Mudstone Buttermere Formation 100–359 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often positive when dry, but smooth, polished or slabby sections can become markedly more slippery when damp.

BGS record
Route sample Volcaniclastic rocks (both pyroclastic and reworked volcanic rocks Eagle Crag Sandstone Member Around 804 m Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Usually rough and grippy when dry. Damp sandstone and gritstone can feel greasy, and saturated sandstone may be weakened, so let the rock dry fully.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about High Crag (Buttermere) on Thursday 24 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather55/100Mixed
Wind10-20 mph westerly Gusts15-25 mph Feels like0 to 4°C PrecipitationAround 2-5 mm Cloud-free summit estimate30% Cloud base through day500-800 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:03 · Sunset 19:05 · 12.0 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Frequent summit cloud on High Crag (Buttermere): summit wind broadly 10-20 mph, with gusts 15-25 mph at times (a moderate breeze).

Cloud & views

Cloud base mostly around 500–800 m through daylight. Summit cloud is likely, but brief clear spells remain possible if the cloud sits higher than expected.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Cloud may hang lower on western slopes and lift somewhat on the eastern side, but local terrain can differ. Any sunshine may be confined to lower ground or breaks away from the summit.

Drizzle is forecast for much of the day. The forecast total is around 2-5 mm, but local amounts will vary.

Rain & temperature

The ground is likely to be wet after recent rain.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Exposed tops may feel chilly in the wind.

A windproof layer will help, with an extra warm layer for stops. If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly.

Keep a dry warm layer protected. Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud, even where forecasts agree on the wider cloud cover.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 9.3 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.

Early
1.6 h
Midday
3.1 h
Later
2.7 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Mixed Summit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
55/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Mixed Rain eases compared with the morning. Summit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
55/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaConditions look promising, but forecast uncertainty caps the grade at 82/100. 82/100Good · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Friday 25 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Open-hillside camping looks promising overall around 600 m (82/100). Light winds are expected on open ground, though local shelter and exposure still matter. Little overnight rain is forecast. Some condensation is possible overnight. Forecast models are not closely enough agreed for an exceptional grade. The grade is capped at 82/100.

Overnight rain0.2 mm Open ground · 600 m9 mph · gusts 19 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 4°C or lower

Moon overnight

Near-full moon

Illuminated disc
99%
Moonrise
18:29 BST
Moonset
06:45 next morning BST

Clear spells may allow a view of the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 25 Sep, 17:00 BST to 26 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

Elevation reference (open ground)

300 m82/100 · promising
Wind / gust
8 mph / 16 mph
Typical / low
8.7°C / 7.6°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m82/100 · promising
Wind / gust
9 mph / 19 mph
Typical / low
8.7°C / 7.6°C · much of the night
In cloud
7% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Poor25/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look poor (25/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Andesite (Birker Fell Andesite Formation). Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Granophyric granite, Mudstone and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust22 mphRain3.3 mm
Main factorswet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Low confidence
View the summit BGS record

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Wainwright High Stile Ridge

granite, gneiss or gabbro, slate or mudstone, volcanic rock, sandstone or gritstone

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

4 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation 629–718 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Granophyric granite Ennerdale Intrusion 283–530 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Mudstone Buttermere Formation 100–359 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often positive when dry, but smooth, polished or slabby sections can become markedly more slippery when damp.

BGS record
Route sample Volcaniclastic rocks (both pyroclastic and reworked volcanic rocks Eagle Crag Sandstone Member Around 804 m Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Usually rough and grippy when dry. Damp sandstone and gritstone can feel greasy, and saturated sandstone may be weakened, so let the rock dry fully.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about High Crag (Buttermere) on Friday 25 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Unavailable
Overall hill weather92/100Excellent
Wind5-20 mph southerly Gusts15-25 mph Feels like2 to 6°C PrecipitationLittle or none Cloud-free summit estimate95% Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:05 · Sunset 19:02 · 12.0 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Little rain and limited summit cloud on High Crag (Buttermere): summit wind broadly 5-20 mph, with gusts 15-25 mph at times (a moderate breeze).

Cloud & views

Cloud base around 900–1200 m in the morning, lifting to 1300–1600 m around midday. The summit is likely to stay mostly clear.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Rain & temperature

The ground is likely to be wet after recent rain. Little or no rain is forecast.

Forecast models disagree markedly on summit wind strength. Check again nearer the time.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Overall confidence is unavailable: insufficient comparable wind, rain guidance.

Cloud-free timing: Around 75% early, improving to around 95% later.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 10.9 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Early
2 h
Midday
4 h
Later
2.9 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Excellent Summit winds around 5-15 mph. Gusts around 10-20 mph are possible on exposed ground.
89/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Excellent Summit winds around 5-15 mph. Gusts around 10-20 mph are possible on exposed ground.
95/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 600 m: gusts may reach about 45 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 35 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. 19/100Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Saturday 26 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Exposed camping is not recommended near 600 m: gusts may reach about 45 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 35 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Open-hillside camping looks very poor overall around 600 m (19/100). Peak gusts range from about 40 mph at 300 m to 45 mph at 600 m. Around 4.3 mm is forecast, including rain around pack-up. Some condensation is possible overnight.

Overnight rain4.3 mm Open ground · 600 m21 mph · gusts 47 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 6°C or lower

Moon overnight

Near-full moon

Illuminated disc
100%
Moonrise
18:37 BST
Moonset
Outside this window

Views of the Moon may come and go through cloud breaks. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 26 Sep, 17:00 BST to 27 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

Elevation reference (open ground)

300 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
18 mph / 39 mph
Typical / low
9.3°C / 9.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m19/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
21 mph / 47 mph
Typical / low
9.1°C / 8.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
13% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 6°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaRock may be damp or still drying. Good82/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look good (82/100). Recent rain may leave seepage and damp rock, especially on shaded sections. The mapped summit rock is Andesite (Birker Fell Andesite Formation). Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Granophyric granite, Mudstone and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain.

Rock surfaceDry overhead; seepage uncertainPeak gust18 mphRain0.0 mm
Main concerndamp or incompletely dried rock possible
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Low confidence
View the summit BGS record

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Wainwright High Stile Ridge

granite, gneiss or gabbro, slate or mudstone, volcanic rock, sandstone or gritstone

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

4 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation 629–718 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Granophyric granite Ennerdale Intrusion 283–530 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Mudstone Buttermere Formation 100–359 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often positive when dry, but smooth, polished or slabby sections can become markedly more slippery when damp.

BGS record
Route sample Volcaniclastic rocks (both pyroclastic and reworked volcanic rocks Eagle Crag Sandstone Member Around 804 m Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Usually rough and grippy when dry. Damp sandstone and gritstone can feel greasy, and saturated sandstone may be weakened, so let the rock dry fully.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

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Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about High Crag (Buttermere) on Saturday 26 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

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Confidence: Unavailable
Overall hill weather20/100Poor
Wind25-40 mph southwesterly Gusts45-55 mph Feels like2 to 6°C PrecipitationAround 10-20 mm Cloud-free summit estimate50% Cloud base through day700-1,000 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:07 · Sunset 19:00 · 11.9 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Strong gusts on High Crag (Buttermere): summit wind broadly 25-40 mph, with gusts 45-55 mph at times (strong winds). Visibility may drop briefly in showers.

Things to watch

Possible spate risk through the day and overnight, with forecast rain and subsequent runoff. Risk may continue beyond the daytime period shown. Timings are approximate, not a guarantee of safe crossings afterwards. Burns and unbridged crossings may rise quickly. Turn back if a crossing looks unsafe.

Wind & exposure

Much calmer lower down - generally 10-20 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind.

Cloud & views

Cloud base mostly around 700–1000 m through daylight. Summit cloud is extensive early, becoming less frequent later.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Cloud may hang lower on southwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the northeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud.

Rain & temperature

Rain and drizzle are forecast for much of the day, with some passing showers too. The forecast total is around 10-20 mm, but local amounts will vary.

Forecast models differ on summit wind strength. Treat the wind figures as a guide.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Exposed tops may feel chilly in the wind.

A windproof layer will help, with an extra warm layer for stops. If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly.

Keep a dry warm layer protected. Overall confidence is unavailable: insufficient comparable wind, rain guidance.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 2.6 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Early
Less than 1 hour
Midday
1.2 h
Later
Less than 1 hour

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Poor Summit winds around 30-40 mph. Gusts around 45-55 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later. Rain is forecast during this period.
10/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Poor Summit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 40-50 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind. Rain is forecast during this period.
30/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaGusts near 30 mph make meaningful shelter important. 39/100Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Sunday 27 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Open-hillside camping looks poor overall around 600 m (39/100). Open-ground gusts may reach about 30 mph. Seek meaningful shelter. Peak gusts range from about 25 mph at 300 m to 30 mph at 600 m. Roughly 14.6 mm is forecast overnight, with rain liable to affect both pitching and packing up. Condensation risk is high near 300 and 600 m, so a wet pack-up is possible. Ventilation will matter.

Overnight rain14.6 mm Open ground · 600 m21 mph · gusts 32 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 6°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waning gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
98%
Moonrise
18:47 BST
Moonset
Outside this window

Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 27 Sep, 17:00 BST to 28 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

Elevation reference (open ground)

300 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
17 mph / 26 mph
Typical / low
10.0°C / 9.6°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
21 mph / 32 mph
Typical / low
10.0°C / 9.6°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 6°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

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Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 50 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. Poor2/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (2/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Andesite (Birker Fell Andesite Formation). Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Granophyric granite, Mudstone and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 50 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust50 mphRain13.0 mm
Main factorsgusts around 50 mphwet rock likely
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Low confidence
View the summit BGS record

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Wainwright High Stile Ridge

granite, gneiss or gabbro, slate or mudstone, volcanic rock, sandstone or gritstone

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

4 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Andesite Birker Fell Andesite Formation 629–718 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often grippy when dry, but volcanic rocks vary widely; wet lichen, smooth holds and local seepage can still make them slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Granophyric granite Ennerdale Intrusion 283–530 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Mudstone Buttermere Formation 100–359 m samples Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Often positive when dry, but smooth, polished or slabby sections can become markedly more slippery when damp.

BGS record
Route sample Volcaniclastic rocks (both pyroclastic and reworked volcanic rocks Eagle Crag Sandstone Member Around 804 m Seen on Wainwright High Stile Ridge

Usually rough and grippy when dry. Damp sandstone and gritstone can feel greasy, and saturated sandstone may be weakened, so let the rock dry fully.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about High Crag (Buttermere) on Sunday 27 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Weather data: Open-Meteo (CC BY 4.0). Adapted by Mountain Weather.

Forecast run: 2026-09-20

Keep exploring

Weather around High Crag (Buttermere).

Compare the summit forecast with the wider regional picture and nearby peaks before choosing a route.

Regional mountain forecastLake DistrictView area →
High Stile806 m · 1.3 km awayForecast →High Stile806 m · 1.5 km awayForecast →Haystacks597 m · 1.5 km awayForecast →Pillar892 m · 2.1 km awayForecast →

A forecast is part of the decision.

Mountain weather can differ sharply from conditions in the valley. Check official warnings, carry appropriate navigation and clothing, and be ready to change the plan. Read how Mountain Weather forecasts are produced and where their limits lie.

Choose another summit