Hartsop Dodd | Wainwrights Far Eastern Fells
Hartsopp Dodd is a distinctive fell that offers a short but steep climb rewarded with exceptional views. The ascent typically starts from the village of Hartsop, following a path that quickly gains elevation through open fields and grassy slopes. Although the climb is relatively brief, it is quite steep, making it a good workout for the legs. Upon reaching the summit, marked by a cairn, the panoramic views unfold dramatically. To the north, the vista includes the gentle Ullswater and the rolling hills beyond. To the south, the impressive ridges of Caudale Moor and neighboring fells come into view. Hartsopp Dodd is often less crowded than some of the more famous peaks, allowing for a peaceful and contemplative experience. Its proximity to other notable fells like Gray Crag makes it an excellent addition to a longer hiking route. The combination of a brisk climb and stunning views makes Hartsopp Dodd a rewarding destination for hikers.
Driving towards Hartsop Dodd from Patterdale the Fell imposes itself quickly upon the landscape. Rising sharply from the valley floor and overshadowing the stunning village that gave the Dodd its name, Hartsop, Hartsop Dodd obscures Cauldale Moor which lays behind. Perfectly positioned for views of Brothers Water and Ullswater, on a clear day you can view the Ullswater Steamers pulling into Glennriding Harbour. The ascent to Hartsop Dodd is unrelenting in its steep approach and most route from the village remain very direct. Atop the Fell is a small Cairn, the perfect place to regain your breath before heading onwards to Cauldale Moor.
HARTSOP DODD INFORMATION
Hartsop Dodd is a fell in the Helvellyn range of the English Lake District, rising to 618 meters (2,028 feet) and offering a short climb (pretty direct). From the village of Hartsop the ascent follows a well-defined grassy ridge that leads to a rounded summit with wide, sweeping views over Deepdale, Brotherswater, and the higher Helvellyn massif; unlike its more rugged neighbors, Hartsop Dodd’s smooth contours and open slopes make it an excellent choice for a quick outing or for walkers seeking fine panoramas without technical scrambling. The lower flanks are interspersed with drystone walls and sheep pasture, and the ridge is often used as part of longer circular walks that include Stony Cove Pike and Raise.
There is parking at the foot of Hartsop Dodd where payment is made by honesty box (please contribute it is for a good cause). Alternatively, nearby National Trust Parking is available.
HEIGHT IN METRES 618m
HEIGHT IN FEET 2028ft
RANGE Far Eastern Fells
GRID REFERENCE NY 411118
OS Map Route
HARTSOP DODD GALLERY
HARTSOP DODD RELATED POSTS
HARTSOP DODD MAP
WHERE TO STAY HARTSOP DODD
For those looking for easy access to Hartsop Dodd and the surrounding fells in this area Patterdale is a great place to base yourself. The village of Patterdale is walking distance from Glenridding and Ullswater whilst being a stones throw from the start of the Hartsop Dodd ascent. If you really want to stay at the base of Hartsop Dodd consider a night at the Brothers Water Inn.
