Yoke, Ill Bell, & Froswick From Troutbeck | Lake District Walks
This circular walk from the village of Troutbeck encompasses three high fells that sit along a ridge with views to Windermere and the surrounding Far Eastern Fells. This near 10-mile route can be completed in either direction, however the route that I describe in this guide has the more mellow ascent so it is perhaps the easier way to complete the walk.
View Across To Yoke, Ill Bell, and Froswick along the ridge on the right
WATCH THE VIDEO
The benefit of this walk is that once upon the main ridge, the fell tops of Yoke, Ill Bell and Froswick all stand above 700m. Therefore each summit is able to provide a unique viewpoint to admire the surrounding fells and lakes with 360-degree panoramas. At 726m in height, Ill Bell is the highest point of this walk over 600m higher than the starting point of the village of Troutbeck. This walk ensures fantastic views of Lake Windermere, Kentmere Reservoir, Kentmere Pike, Shipman Knotts, Troutbeck Tongue, and Wansfell among many other points of interest.
My complete route is listed on OS Maps and can be seen HERE
WALK OVERVIEW
Start - Jesus Church, Troutbeck Village
This walk begins at Jesus Church in the Village of Troutbeck where free parking is available on the road, and via the turn nearest the bridge. There has been a church on this site for centuries with the current building being constructed in 1736. With such history, the church is worth exploring if the time allows.
View of Blencathra from outside the Church
Distance - 15.85km / 9.85 miles
Duration - 5-6hrs.
Difficulty - Moderate
Total Ascent - 803m
Map - You can find my full route here on Ordnance Surveys website
Yoke, Ill Bell, & Froswick Circular Walking Route From Troutbeck
STARTING YOUR YOKE, ILL BELL, & FROSWICK WALK
Leaving the church, head across the wooden footbridge walking away from the church. Shortly after the bridge, you will notice a bridleway on the opposite side of the road. This is the start of the Garburn Pass. The Garburn Pass is the path you will stay on all the way until you turn off near Yoke to start your ascent of the ridge.
FACILITIES
The village of Troutbeck is small and quiet with a few local facilities like pubs and places of interest. Jesus Church does have access to a toilet although whether this is open can be hit or miss, as it is really intended for the sole use of church occupants. Near to the church is Limefitt Holiday Park where you can use the toilet in the local pub.
View Towards Windermere From Yoke
WALKING ROUTE
The initial section of this walk runs along the Garburn Pass. The Garburn Pass is a well-maintained path that is popular with mountain bikers riding between Kentmere and Ambleside. The path itself was in good condition and made for fairly easy walking.
The walk along this path could easily be combined with Sour Howes and Sallows if you were looking to add extra miles to your walk. In the case of my route, I walked below Sour Howes and headed toward Buck Crag pictured below. It is here that you leave the Garburn Pass and head on your ascent towards Yoke.
Yoke as seen from the Garburn Pass
Upon leaving the Garburn Pass, the path becomes a little less even but still remains in good condition as seen below. The path winds its way towards the summit of Yoke. The walk to this point is fairly mellow and unchallenging, however, the final 100-200m ascent towards Yoke had me breathing a little heavier.
Walking Path Towards Yoke
Upon reaching the summit of Yoke, you will find a Cairn ontop of a rocky outcrop. From here, looking forwards long the route you will see Ill Bell, the routes highest point. The summit of Yoke is 706m and is a sizeable achievement for many Lake District walkers.
Walking the ridge approaching High Rigg
Leaving Yoke towards Ill Bell, the path resembles a camel’s back and you will need to descend shortly before reascending to Ill Bell Summit. It is here where views of Kentmere Reservoir begin to show to the right of the path. Looking behind you views towards Windermere, Troutbeck Tongue, and Wansfell are prominent.
View Towards Ill Bell with Kentmere Reservoir In View
The summit of Ill Bell is marked by two large cairns and one smaller cairn. This distribution of these cairns made Ill Bell stand out as completely contrasting to the other Far Eastern Fells summits.
Ill Bell Summit
This unique fell top offered my favourite views of the walk with stunning views in all directions. The view pictured below looking back towards Yoke and Windermere goes some way to demonstrating how far you will have walked to reach this point.
View From Ill Bell Towards Yoke and Windermere
Next comes the most frustrating part of this walk with close to 100m of descending before around 100m of ascending straight to the summit of Froswick. The first section of descent from Ill Bell can be rocky if leaving the summit from close to the second cairn so choose your route wisely.
View from Ill Bell towards Froswick
Once back on the path, the route from between Ill Bell and Froswick is simple with little chance of making an error. To the left of this image is Stoney Cove Pike and the ridge to the right leads towards Harter Fell.
The summit of Froswick stands at 720m and offers views towards Windermere in one direction and towards Thornthwaite Crag in the other.
View towards Windermere from Froswick
View towards Thornthwate Crag from Froswick
From Froswick fell top you head in the direction of Thornthwaite Crag, however turn left at a small cairn to descend via Scot Rake. Scot Rake leads down into the valley towards Troutbeck Park and Troutbeck Tongue.
Cairn to mark the turn down Scot Rake
The path along Scot Rake down into the valley is less well-defined and there are areas where running water can make the path slippery so beware of your footing. From here it is a simple descent into the Troutbeck Valley where you will want to end up on the left side of Troutbeck Tongue.
The path from here alongside Troutbeck Tongue is 3.5miles back to the village. You will walk past farms and end up near the Limefitt Holiday Park which is a couple of hundred metres from the starting point at Jesus Church.
My complete route is listed on OS Maps and can be seen HERE
FIND NEARBY ACCOMMODATION
YOKE, ILL BELL, & FROSWICK GALLERY
TOP TIPS FOR WALKING THIS ROUTE
Get to the parking area early, especially on weekends or during school holidays. Although the area isn’t as busy as many other main Lakeland towns, the parking can fill up quickly.
This is a long route with nearly 10 miles of walking and 800m of total ascent. Allow yourself time to complete the walk and come well prepared.
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MORE FROM THE FAR EASTERN FELLS
Walking Ullock Pike, Long Side, Carl Side and Dodd from Dodd Wood | Lake District Walks
This Route takes in four summits from Alfred Wainwrights fifth book in the Northern Fells; Ullock Pike, Long Side, Carl Side and Dodd. The Northern Fells is famous for some of its larger summits like Skiddaw and Blencathra, however this walk alongThe Edge delivers stunning views of Bassenthwaite and Derwentwater as well as views across to Skiddaw.
The walk can begin in the Dodd Wood visitor centre, however I opted to park in lay-by which some extra steps to the walk. I will provide links to both options below. Parking at the visitor centre also adds the convienience of a cafe should you require grabbing some snacks or a tea on your way up or down.
From Dodd Wood, this route takes a mellow route through the woodland until you begin your ascent up Ling How and onto The Edge. This first section is the most challenging with 300m+ ascent from Ling How onto Ullock Pike. The route however is fairly moderate and ascends slowly as the well trodden path meanders its way up to Ullock Pike.
WALK OVERVIEW
Start - Dodd Wood
Parking at Dodd Wood visitor centre or in public lay-by nearby.
Distance - 6.14 miles
Duration - 4-5hrs
Difficulty - Moderate
Total Ascent - 914m
Map - You can find my full route below on Ordanance Survey’s website.
Route from Lay-by parking with more challenging descent from Dodd to Finish here
Route from Dodd Wood visitor centre with more challenging descent from Dodd here
Route with easier descent of Dodd back through Dodd Wood here
PREPARING FOR YOURWALK
NAVIGATION
As with all good walk preparation, you will need a way to navigate on your walk. I use the OS Maps App on my phone and you can find my route here
If you are navigating using your phone be sure to do the following;
Download the map before you leave wifi - you CANT guarantee you will have signal in the mountains.
Bring a battery pack or way to charge your device.
Print a copy of the walk before you leave from the Ordance Survey Website as a back up.
I also use my Suunto Watch as a backup navigation tool, however, if you are not confident that your technology will last you should purchase the Ordnance Survey Map for your walk.
WEATHER
If there is one thing that is for certain when walking in the British Mountains is that you can never be sure of the weather. Even on days that are forecast glorious sunshine, it is best to be prepared for the worst, as conditions can change rapidly.
Check the latest weather for this walk here
WHAT TO WEAR
When hiking in the UK it is important to remain flexible and with this in mind layers are certainly your best option. Mountain environments can be unforgiving and weather can change quickly. It is normal to see winds increasing and temperatures dropping as you reach your chosen summit. Make sure to pack a spare layer for the summit.
Suitable footwear in the form of walking boots or shoes is advised, especially when conditions are less than ideal. A good pair of walking boots will offer your ankles support, keep your feet dry and ensure you have grip, especially on those wet days. Yes, you probably could make it to the top in that old pair of tennis trainers… but will your feet thank you?
WHERE TO START
The start of this walk is 10 minutes in a car from Keswick and 30 minutes from Penrith. This walk is accessible with parking facilities at Dodd Wood but equally can be done with free parking in nearby lay-bys.
FACILITIES
The base of Dodd Wood has a cafe which is open daily. You can check the relevant opening times here. The are also toilet facilities available in the Dodd Wood Car Park.
To park at Dodd Wood you will need to ‘Pay on Exit’ and you will find the pay station beside the toilet block. The car park is a 24 hour car park. All-day maximum charge is £10 and you can find other relevant parking information here.
WALKING GUIDE
The start of this walk through Dodd Wood is mellow and along well trodden paths. You will be able to enjoy the sounds of the woodlands as you are overshadowed by the large trees that stand here. The path through the sections of Dodd Wood is well-maintained and makes for an easy start to this walk.
Looking across to The Nab from under Heck Crag
As you leave the woodland and begin to head up towards The Edge you will be greeted with some fantastic views across Bassenthwaite to your left. It is here on this section where you start to gain height as you approach Ling How and the start of the ascent to Ullock Pike.
View back towards Bassenthwaite Lake.
The path to Ullock Pike is well-trodden so is clear throughout. For me this was the most challenging section of the walk but a steady amble along the winding path was more than manageable. If legs get weary on this section be sure to take a moment to look back towards Bassenthwaite or across to Skiddaw.
Once atop Ullock Pike it a mere stroll along Longside edge before you will have ticked off three of the Wainwrights on this walk. Ullock Pike, Long Side and Carl Side all reside along the short stretch and makes for and fine reward for the effort to reach the ridge.
Looking back to Ullock Pike from Longside Summit
Looking across to Dodd and Derwentwater from Longside
The descent from Carl Side is sharp but along a decent gravel path. The views from here are towards Keswick and Derwentwater.
After the aptly named White Rocks, the path bares right where a rocky section leads you down to meet Dodd Wood again. This section should be taken carefully, but offers a great sight towards the remaining goal, Dodd. It is worth noting that you can exclude Dodd from this walk if your legs are tired and take the route through the Woods back to your car. Those with the energy will meet a winding path to the summit which offers so spectacular vies.
Looking across to Dodd on the Carl Side descent.
From Dodd Summit, you have two options, the route I took (here), which has a steeper, less well-trodden path or the kinder route (here) back along the maintained route to Dodd Wood visitor centre. Whichever route you decide upon, take your time to enjoy the views from Dodd, the lowest summit on this walk with the best views.
Dodd Summit
WALK GALLERY
FIND KESWICK ACCOMMODATION HERE
ANY QUESTIONS?
Be sure to leave any questions in the comments and I will try my best to help you with your Angletarn Route. If you found this post useful and want to support me to make future content consider using the QR code to Buy Me A Coffee. All proceeds go towards supporting this website.
Thanks for stopping by and while you are here why don’t you check out some related posts below.
Branstree | Wainwrights Far Eastern Fells
BRANSTREE
Branstree is a remote and tranquil fell that offers a sense of wilderness and isolation. The ascent to Branstree usually begins from Mardale Head, following a path that skirts the shores of Haweswater before climbing steadily through grassy slopes. The terrain is less rugged than some of the other Far Eastern Fells, but the sense of remoteness adds to its charm. As you approach the summit, marked by a trig point, the surrounding landscape unfolds with wide, sweeping views. To the west, the imposing High Street range comes into view, while to the east, the rolling moorlands stretch out towards the Pennines. The summit plateau is expansive, offering plenty of space to sit and soak in the serene atmosphere. Branstree may not be the most challenging fell, but its quiet beauty and the sense of solitude it provides make it a rewarding destination for those looking to escape the crowds.
Branstree Fell Summit
Rising to a height of 713m Branstree is a child summit of High Street. Found in the Far Eastern Fells, Branstree is one of the 214 Wainwrights listed in the books by Alfred Wainwright. The summit of Branstree is of little interest with a fairly flat top, however, the views of surrounding fells and across Haweswater make it worth the journey.
BRANSTREE INFORMATION
HEIGHT IN METRES 713m
HEIGHT IN FEET 2339ft
RANGE Far Eastern Fells
GRID REFERENCE NYNY478099
Have you walked Branstree Fell? Let me know what you thought of the views below.
Branstree and Selside Pike Walk
BRANSTREE VIDEO
BRANSTREE MAP
BRANSTREE WALK SUGGESTIONS
BRANSTREE GALLERY
RELATED POSTS
Angletarn Pikes Walk | Lake District Walks
This circular route to Angletarn Pikes can be completed in one day or combined with an overnight camp at the tarn. Honestly, if the weather is right it makes total sense to stay up there and take a dip!
This walk to Angletarn Pikes approaches the tarn from a less travelled direction, Martindale. Most people approach Angletarn from either Hartsop or Patterdale with a number of viable routes. I enjoy the route from Martindale for its more steady approach with only a short steep section towards the end.
WALK OVERVIEW
Start - Martindale
Park at St Martins Church in Martindale. There is parking at St Peters nearby if this area is full.
Distance - 7.37 miles
Duration - 4-5hrs
Difficulty - Moderate
Total Ascent - 592m
Map - You can find my full route here on Ordnance Surveys’ website
PREPARING FOR YOUR ANGLETARN PIKES WALK
NAVIGATION
As with all good walk preparation, you will need a way to navigate on your walk. I use the OS Maps App on my phone and you can find my route here
If you are navigating using your phone be sure to do the following;
Download the map before you leave wifi - you CANT guarantee you will have signal in the mountains.
Bring a battery pack or way to charge your device.
Print a copy of the walk before you leave from the Ordance Survey Website as a back up.
I also use my Suunto Watch as a backup navigation tool, however, if you are not confident that your technology will last you should purchase the Ordnance Survey Map for your walk.
WEATHER
If there is one thing that is for certain when walking in the British Mountains is that you can never be sure of the weather. Even on days that are forecast glorious sunshine, it is best to be prepared for the worst, as conditions can change rapidly.
Check the latest Angletarn Pikes weather here
WHAT TO WEAR
When hiking in the UK it is important to remain flexible and with this in mind layers are certainly your best option. Mountain environments can be unforgiving and weather can change quickly. It is normal to see winds increasing and temperatures dropping as you reach your chosen summit. Make sure to pack a spare layer for the summit.
Suitable footwear in the form of walking boots or shoes is advised, especially when conditions are less than ideal. A good pair of walking boots will offer your ankles support, keep your feet dry and ensure you have grip, especially on those wet days. Yes, you probably could make it to the top in that old pair of tennis trainers… but will your feet thank you?
WHERE TO START
Getting to the start of the walk involves driving down some narrow country roads towards Howtown and Martindale from Pooley Bridge. Be careful as traffic can be busy at peak times and there are few places to pass. It is important to keep an eye out for the last passing place as it is not uncommon for you to need to reverse back down the road.
The postcode for Howtown if you are using your Sat Nav is CA10 2LZ and this should lead you to the Howtown Pier. Parking is possible by the Pier on the roadside but this is limited.
If you fancy a cool alternative to access Howtown consider taking a trip on the Ullswater steamers.
Parking is also possible by St Peter’s Church in Martindale. The church sits at the base of the paths to Hallin Fell and Steel Knotts so is ideally located. This area can become busy so be sure to head up early or late to guarantee a parking spot.
Parking in both Howtown and Martindale is free but be sure to be considerate of other road users. The road is used by farm vehicles and blocking it could result in your car getting ‘bumped’ by a tractor.
FACILITIES
Unlike more popular areas of the Lake like Keswick and Windermere there are no facilities in Howtown and Martindale, besides the Howtown Hotel. To me this is a positive as it draws less people but it is worth noting you should be prepared for a wild wee if you get caught short.
Parking is also possible by St Peter’s Church in Martindale. The church sits at the base of the paths to Hallin Fell and Steel Knotts so is ideally located. This area can become busy so be sure to head up early or late to guarantee a parking spot.
Parking in both Howtown and Martindale is free but be sure to be considerate of other road users. The road is used by farm vehicles and blocking it could result in your car getting ‘bumped’ by a tractor.
FACILITIES
Unlike more popular areas of the Lake like Keswick and Windermere there are no facilities in Howtown and Martindale. To me this is a positive as it draws less people but it is worth noting you should be prepared for a wild wee if you get caught short.
MARTINDALE TO ANGLETARN PIKES CIRCULAR WALK
Starting your walk in Martindale, you should take the road that leads towards Beda Fell and away from St Martins Church. You will be keeping to this road for a while as it winds its way alongside Bannerdale Beck. Keeping Steel Knotts to your left and Beda Fell to your right the road leads towards The Nab as it stands imposingly in the Deer conservation area. This walk is a fantastic one for spotting the local deer grazing as you approach the end of this road.
Looking across to The Nab from under Heck Crag
When you reach the farm at Dale Head, take the path to the right which leads up towards Heck Crag. This part of the walk can be overgrown in the summer, check this video (5:06) however the path is still well defined. From Dale Head there is a steady incline as you follow the stone wall all the way to the base of Heck Crag. The final approach gets a bit steeper as you earn your approach to Angletarn, don’t worry the scenery at Angletarn is worth it.
View of my tent pitch at Angletarn
If you have the time and the weather stopping the night at Angletarn makes perfect sense. The opportunity to spend the evening by the tarn and take a wild swim is a must. However all good things come to an end and when it is time to descend back to Martindale you can complete this circular route by leaving Angletarn towards Boredale Hause. Boredale Hause is somewhat of a crossroads and from here you can descent to Patterdale or head up towards Place Fell. If you are continuing my route back towards Martindale you will descend through Boredale keeping the Boredale Beck on your right this time.
Similar to your route up you will eventually find yourself doing some road walking until you head up and over Howstead Brow at the base of Beda Fell. From here it will be a short amble back to your car.
When walking the path up it is essential to take time to turn around and look at the scenery behind you. The views back towards the Martindale Horseshoe are impressive, letting your mind run away with the many possibilities of walking routes in the area. It was on this part of the walk that I decided to make Beda Fell Episode 2 in #mywainwrightsproject
ANY QUESTIONS?
Be sure to leave any questions in the comments and I will try my best to help you with your Angletarn Route. If you found this post useful and want to support me to make future content consider using the QR code to Buy Me A Coffee. All proceeds go towards supporting this website.
Thanks for stopping by and while you are here why don’t you check out some related posts below.
High Rigg from St John's Church | Lake District Walks
What High Rigg lacks in height it certainly makes up for in views. This diminutive fell in the English Lake District offers some incredible views towards Blencathra, Helvellyn, and Thirlmere. This walk itself is perfect for those beginning their fell walking adventures or those who like a slow amble to warm their legs before the ascent.
High Rigg Summit View To Thirlmere
WATCH THE VIDEO
Despite its name High Rigg, this small Wainwright is only 357m in height. This walk to High Rigg leads you around the base of the fell before ascending Wren Crag onto a undulating ridge. Once on the ridge you are able to benefit from extensive panoramas in every direction. This High Rigg walks ensures that you will be able to admire; Blencathra, Helvellyn, Skiddaw and Thirlmere.
WALK OVERVIEW
Start - St John’s In The Vale, Church
The church of St John’s in the Vale ( Grid Reference - NY 307225) is the starting point for this walk. Be aware that the church asks you to respect its parking and that you do not use the spaces associated with the church itself. There is parking available on the verge just past the youth centre. The church of St John’s in the Vale is a Grade II listed building and is well worth taking a look around either before or after your walk.
View of Blencathra from outside the Church
Distance - 7.72km / 4.8 miles
Duration - 3 hrs.
Difficulty - Easy
Total Ascent - 363m
Map - You can find my full route here on Ordnance Surveys website
High Rigg Circular Walking Route
STARTING YOUR HIGH RIGG WALK
Views back towards Blencathra
Heading down the hill and keeping the church on your right-hand side, you will see a gate which marks the real start of this walk. Heading through the gate will take you onto a path that leads around the base of High Rigg. On this path, there will be ample opportunity to take in views towards Blencathra, Clough Head and Helvellyn.
FACILITIES
There are no facilities available at the start of this walk however there is a fantastic Tea Room at Low Bridge End Farm available before the ascent. The Tea Room is open between 10:30 and 16:30.
HIGH RIGG ROUTE
The initial section of this walk stays low and leads you around the base of High Rigg towards Wren Crag. This gentle path meanders alongside St John’s Beck which runs between High Rigg and Great Dodd. The valley of St John’s in the vale is stunning and acts as a frame for views back towards Blencathra.
Following this path during the day can be rewarded with a stop at Low Bridge End Farm, who serve tea and cakes.
St John’s in the Vale
Looking back towards Helvellyn and the Dodds
After Low Bridge End Farm you continue around to the base of Wren Crag. It is from here that the ascent really starts with the path quickly heading up to 311m. The path to Wren Crag, heads up through tightly packed trees, however, the path remains well-defined.
You are rewarded for the quick ascent with some excellent viewpoints including the one below looking towards Thirmere.
View of Thirlmere from Wren Crag.
Path towards Branstree with Harter Fell in the background.
Once at Wren Crag, the majority of the hard work is done with you already on the ridgeline to approach High Rigg. This section of the walk is where you get the rewards for your earlier endeavour with views in every direction.
Walking the ridge approaching High Rigg
Keeping Blencathra in front of you, follow the rolling path as it weaves along the ridge towards High Rigg summit. This was how Wainwright himself intended you to experience this walk commenting ‘The journey should be made from south to north so that the fine view of Blencathra is in front.’
Walking the ridge with Blencathra in front.
Eventually, you will reach a stile which needs to be crossed before the final push towards the summit. This area was full of bracken but a clear path cuts its way through the middle.
Crossing the Stile - High Rigg
The summit at High Rigg is marked with a cairn that sits upon a rocky outcrop. From here the views are the best throughout the whole walk. Regardless of the direction of gaze there is something of interest with; Bassenthwaite, Thirlmere, Skiddaw, Blencathra, Helvellyn, and Clough Head all in view.
The final approach to High Rigg
HIGH RIGG GALLERY
TOP TIPS FOR WALKING HIGH RIGG
Avoid walking High Rigg on a Sunday if you are intending to park near the church of St John.
There are shorter walks directly from the church if you are looking to save time on your High Rigg walk.
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MORE FROM THE CENTRAL FELLS
Branstree and Selside Pike From Haweswater | Lake District Walks
This Branstree and Selside Pike walk allows for a circular route from Mardale Head which looks down upon the fantastic Haweswater Reservoir and tramples the Old Corpse Road. If you are looking for a quieter region of the Lakes then the Far Eastern Fells do a great job of delivering on adventure and views, but staying away from the crowds.
Looking back over Haweswater Reservoir
WATCH THE VIDEO
Starting this walk on the banks of Haweswater is impressive. In fact, the drive towards the car park at Mardale Head provides excellent insight into the views you can expect from this walk. From the car park, you are surrounded by fells, overseen by the imposing Harter Fell and looking back towards Kidsty Pike and High Raise, this really is a beautiful part of the Lakeland.
WALK OVERVIEW
Start -Mardale Head Car Park
There is ample parking to be found at Mardale Head car park. This car park is free and works on a first come first served basis. Although I have not experienced issues with parking here I can image during the height of summer that an earlier is better rule is best applied.
Distance - 9.5km / 5.9 miles
Duration - 3hr 20 mins - 4hrs.
The initial section from Mardale head along the Gatescarth pass is steep but once at Branstree the route ambles along an easy (if somewhat boggy) path.
Difficulty - Easy-Moderate
Total Ascent - 563m
Map - You can find my full route here on Ordnance Surveys website
Branstree and Selside Pike Circular Walking Route
STARTING YOUR BRANSTREE AND SELSIDE PIKE WALK
Gatescarth Path
The car park marks the end of the road alongside Haweswater at Mardale Head. From here a gate indicates the start of the ascent along the Gatescarth Pass. The path is well-maintained and makes for an easy-to-navigate route.
FACILITIES
At the car park there are no toilet or shop facilities so ensure you are prepared for your walk in advance. The car park is free of use at the time of writing.
BRANSTREE AND SELSIDE PIKE ROUTE
From the car park, the initial section follows the well-maintained Gatescarth Pass which winds its way from 252m to an intersection around 500m. The intersection is your cue to turn left and start the mellow path along Branstree.
Start of the Gatescarth Pass
Looking back towards Haweswater from the Gatescarth Pass
The path itself is well-defined and starts mellow before hitting a steeper section. At a moderate pace and with a few rest stops this part of the route took around 30 - 40 minutes before reaching the intersection. Plenty of walkers were flying up it, so just judge this section based on your fitness levels.
The Gatescarth Pass dissects Branstree on the left and Harter Fell on the right as can be seen in the photo below.
The Gatescarth Pass cutting between Branstree and Harter Fell.
When you leave the well defined Gatescarth Pass towards Branstree the path is less clear. The next section will involve walking on grass as pictured below. This may be the first section where you require navigation, you can find my route here.
The path up Branstree remains rather mellow and makes for a nice change from the initial steep ascent from the Mardale Head car park.
Path towards Branstree with Harter Fell in the background.
The summit of Branstree is pretty unremarkable with a small marker on the floor of a fairly flat fell top. Slightly further on from the summit is a large cairn that can make for a good wind cover in adverse conditions. The summit of Branstree is the highest section of this walk at 713m meaning that from here you are on a gradual descent.
The walk between the summits of Branstree and Selside Pike can get quite boggy in wetter weather. The reward for your endeavour is fantastic views back down towards Haweswater. This section of the path hugs a long fence, if you keep this on your right hand-side you cant go wrong.
The summit at Selside Pike is marked with a Cairn that makes the perfect shelter from the conditions. See video (5:58). Even in good conditions, the Cairn makes for a great spot to sit, rest and have some grub.
This walk finishes by connecting with the Old Corpse Road. This historic part of the route, leads you back down the fell side and towards the banks of Ullswater. The old shepherd hut pictured is a great spot to get some photos of Haweswater form an elevated position.
BRANSTREE AND SELSIDE PIKE GALLERY
TOP TIPS FOR WALKING BRANSTREE AND SELSIDE PIKE
If your intention is to park at Mardale Head, be sure to get an early start during peak weeks.
Take your time on the way up the Gatescarth Pass. Despite feeling steep, this was actually a highlight of this walk.
Consider wearing gaiters if the weather has been wet recently. There are a few sections of this walk that can be quite boggy.
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MORE FROM THE FAR EASTERN FELLS
Selside Pike | Wainwrights Far Eastern Fells
SELSIDE PIKE
Selside Pike is a summit 655m high in the Far Eastern Fells of the Lake District national park. Categorised as one of the Wainwrights Selside Pike can be combined with nearby Branstree if you are out peak bagging. Selside Pike is a child summit of High Street .
Looking back over Haweswater
SELSIDE PIKE INFORMATION
HEIGHT IN METRES 655m
HEIGHT IN FEET 2149ft
RANGE Far Eastern Fells
GRID REFERENCE NY490111
Have you walked Selside Pike? Let me know what you thought of the views below.
APPROPIATE MAP
WAINWRIGHT’S GUIDES
SELSIDE PIKE VIDEO
SELSIDE PIKE MAP
SELSIDE PIKE WALK SUGGESTIONS
SELSIDE PIKE GALLERY
RELATED POSTS
Beda Fell Circular Route from Martindale | Lake District Walks
Nestled in the picturesque Lake District National Park, the stunning landscapes of Martindale offer a plethora of breathtaking hiking trails to explore. Among the many scenic routes, Beda Fell stands out as a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its tranquil surroundings, sweeping vistas, and a sense of solitude, Beda Fell presents a perfect hiking adventure for nature enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will delve into the beauty of Beda Fell and guide you through a mesmerizing walking route from Martindale
Beda Fell
This Beda Fell walk, begins and finishes in Martindale, a small village on the southeast of Ullswater. Access to Martindale is an adventure in itself. Option one is a narrow country lane from Pooley Bridge via multiple campsites and Howtown. When driving this road, please be aware of the last passing lane… you may need to reverse some way to access it. Option two involves taking the Ullswater Steamer from Pooley Bridge to Howtown. Howtown Jetty is a short walk from Martindale so won’t add much time to your walk however the boat will add some excitement to accessing the walk.
The walk to Beda Fell straggles the valleys of Boredale and Bannerdale and as such offers so great views across both valleys. It is possible when walking this loop to see many deer running in the conversation area surrounding The Nab.
WALK OVERVIEW
Start -ST Martin’s Church Martindale
You can park directly at the church in Martindale but be sure not to block any gates or farm traffic. Outside the church there is space for a few cars, however further parking is available near the base of Hallin Fell and the Church of St Peter if spaces are full.
Tip - Park in Pooley Bridge and take the Ullswater Steamer to Howtown. The lake crossing certainly adds something special to any Howtown adventure.
Distance - 7.9km / 4.9 miles
This distance is calculated on a return circular loop walk to St Martins Church. If you take the Ullswater Steamer to Howtown you will need. to add an additional 1.6 miles to this route.
Duration - 2hr 40 - 3hrs 30 mins.
This is a fairly moderate walk with. a couple of steeper sections. Depending on your fitness levels you can expect around 3 hours of walking for this route.
Difficulty - Easy-Moderate
Total Ascent - 390m
Map - You can find my full route here on Ordance Surveys website
Beda Fell Circular Walking Route
PREPARING FOR YOUR BEDA FELL WALK
NAVIGATION
As with all good walk preparation, you will need a way to navigate on your walk. I use the OS Maps App on my phone and you can find my route here
If you are navigating using your phone be sure to do the following;
Download the map before you leave wifi - you CANT guarantee you will have a signal in the mountains.
Bring a battery pack or way to charge your device.
Print a copy of the walk before you leave from the Ordnance Survey Website as a backup.
I also use my Suunto Watch as a backup navigation tool, however, if you are not confident that your technology will last you should purchase the Ordnance Survey Map for your walk.
WEATHER
If there is one thing that is for certain when walking in the British Mountains is that you can never be sure of the weather. Even on days that are forecast glorious sunshine, it is best to be prepared for the worst, as conditions can change rapidly.
Check the latest Beda Fell weather here
WHAT TO WEAR
When hiking in the UK it is important to remain flexible and with this in mind, layers are certainly your best option. Mountain environments can be unforgiving and weather can change quickly. It is normal to see winds increasing and temperatures dropping as you reach your chosen summit. Make sure to pack a spare layer for the summit.
Suitable footwear in the form of walking boots or shoes is advised, especially when conditions are less than ideal. A good pair of walking boots will offer your ankles support, keep your feet dry and ensure you have grip, especially on those wet days. Yes, you probably could make it to the top in that old pair of tennis trainers… but will your feet thank you?
STARTING YOUR BEDA FELL WALK
This Beda Fell walk begins from St Martins Church in Martindale. You can access the church using the following Postcode CA10 2NF. Parking by the church is free and on a first come first served basis. If there are no available spaces then it is possible to park near the base of Hallin Fell.
FACILITIES
With Martindale being more of a rural village than a tourist hotspot there are no facilities, shops, cafes toilets etc. Your nearest opportunity to get supplies is in Pooley Bridge. Personally, this is a positive as it draws fewer people but it is worth noting you should be prepared for a wild wee if you get caught short.
BEDA FELL FROM MARTINDALE ROUTE
Starting your walk from Martindale means that you are already in the heart of the valley. From the parking spot you will already be taking in some pretty epic views of the surrounding fells. Walking across Christy Bridge in the direction of Winter Crag, you will see a farm on your right hand side. Walk past this farm and on the bend of the road you will see a path leading up Winter Crag. This is your entry point to the Beda Fell walk.
Bannerdale Valley Views
The path slowly leads up towards Howstead Brow, where you will get your first viewpoint from a bench on Howstead Brow. Although early in the walk, this viewpoint makes a fantastic spot to adjust any layers or just take in the view of Ullswater.
Viewpoint At Howstead Brow
From Howstead Brow the path winds its way along the tongue splitting the valleys of Bannerdale and Boredale. There is little to go wrong in terms of navigation here with the path to Beda Fell well-trodden. There is a false summit at Low Brock Crags a mere 60m below the summit of Beda Fell at Beda Head 509m.
The Path to Beda Head
The route to Beda Head is meandering and you will need to account for the odd small rocky approach. Although there is a little clambering required to navigate the rocks, nothing technical or challenging stands in the way of your approach.
There is a false summit and Cairn at Low Brock Crags which offers some exceptional views across the Lake District Fells. Don’t be fooled though, I have seen people reach this cairn and then begin their decent as if the goal had been achieved.
As you climb higher, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape of rolling fells, heather-clad slopes, and huge valleys. Beda Fell offers a relatively quiet and less crowded experience compared to some of the more popular peaks in the Lake District, allowing you to truly connect with nature and enjoy moments of solitude. One of the highlights of the Beda Fell walking route is the breathtaking views that unfold as you reach higher ground. From the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the surrounding fells, including the iconic Helvellyn range, Place Fell, and the shimmering expanse of Ullswater. On a clear day, the views stretch as far as the eye can see, providing ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs
Looking across to Place Fell from the summit of Beda Fell
View back to Ullswater from Beda Fell.
WATCH EPISODE 3 BELOW
From the summit, you can retrace your steps back down to Martindale however this route leads you on a decent through the Bannerdale valley. I like taking this decent as it offers the opportunity for some wildlife viewing near the Nab which. is home to many deer.
Leaving the summit of Beda Fell you should continue along the path towards Beda Fell Knotts where a left turn will take you on a path down into the valley. The path hugs the side of Beda Fell as you descend towards Dale Head, the meeting point for Bannerdale Beck and Rampsgill Beck. It is here where looking towards The Nab across the farmland you have the opportunity to spot deer within the conservation area.
Sadly, the final part of this walk is fairly mundane road walking although it is banked by fells on either side. The road, leads past the local farms until you again return to the Church at Martindale.
BEDA FELL GALLERY
TOP TIPS FOR WALKING BEDA FELL
Set off early at peak times. During weekends, evenings and holiday periods Martindale and Howtown are popular so plan accordingly. With this in mind if you arrive in Howtown or Martindale and find there is no parking don’t be that person who blocks the road by parking in a passing place!
Completing Beda Fell as a circular walk allows you to take in the conservation area, however, if time is of the essence Beda Fell can be completed as a quick point-to-point walk.
Come prepared, unlike busier Kewick, there is little in Martindale so you will be unable to purchase last minute supplies.
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MORE FROM THE FAR EASTERN FELLS
Bonscale Pike and Arthurs Pike Walk | Lake District Walks
The town of Howtown on the Eastern shores of Ullswater is a fantastic access point for walking the Far Eastern Fells. These quieter, less accessed walking routes are away from the humdrum of Keswick and Kendal making the valley of Fusedale perfect for avoiding the crowds.
View From Bonscale Pike Towards Hallin Fell
My Bonscale Pike and Arthur’s Pike walk is a circular route that encompasses two Wainwrights whilst also passing over Swarth Fell.
This post covers the route that I took to walk Bonscale Pike and Arthur’s Pike, however as with all outdoor activities caution should be taken and you should ensure you have the correct equipment, knowledge and understanding to complete your walk. With this in mind, other routes are available and may be more suitable, so proceed with caution. For example, my route up Swarth Fell is steeper than alternative paths. Other more subtle paths are available and should be considered.
This route offers exceptional views across Ullswater towards Hallin Fell and Beda Fell as well as towards Pooley Bridge and Dunmallard Hill in the distance.
WALK OVERVIEW
Start - Howtown Pier
Parking is available at Howtown Pier on the roadside. Be sure not to park in the passing places as these are vital to ensure traffic can flow. If the roadside parking is full or you fancy a shorter walk, you can also park at the Church in Martindale.
OS Grid Ref: NY 443 198
Distance - 9.5km / 5.9 miles
Duration - 3hr- 4 hrs
There are plenty of opportunities to extend this walk so if you are looking for a longer walk consider adding in stops at Loadpot Hill and Wether Hill.
Difficulty - Moderate
The route I have chosen does include a section that I consider to be steep (going up Swarth Fell). I enjoyed this part of the route but it also gave me plenty of opportunity to stop, catch my breath and take in the views of Ullswater.
It is possible to do this route in reverse which will give you a mellower walk up however a steeper descent.
Total Ascent - 523m
Map - You can find my full route here on Ordance Surveys website
Arthurs Pike and Bonscale Pike Route
BONSCALE PIKE AND ARTHUR’S PIKE WALK VIDEO
PREPARING FOR YOUR BONSCALE PIKE & ARTHUR’S PIKE WALK
NAVIGATION
As with all good walk preparation, you will need a way to navigate on your walk. I use the OS Maps App on my phone and you can find my route here
If you are navigating using your phone be sure to do the following;
Download the map before you leave wifi - you CANT guarantee you will have signal in the mountains.
Print a copy of the walk before you leave from the Ordnance Survey Website as a backup.
WEATHER
If there is one thing that is for certain when walking in the British Mountains is that you can never be sure of the weather. Even on days that are forecast glorious sunshine, it is best to be prepared for the worst as conditions can change rapidly.
Check the latest Arthur’s Pike weather here
WHAT TO WEAR
When hiking in the UK it is important to remain flexible and with this in mind, layers are certainly your best option. Mountain environments can be unforgiving and weather can change quickly. It is normal to see winds increasing and temperatures dropping as you reach your chosen summit. Make sure to pack a spare layer for the summit.
Suitable footwear in the form of walking boots or shoes is advised, especially when conditions are less than ideal. A good pair of walking boots will offer your ankles support, keep your feet dry and ensure you have grip, especially on those wet days. Yes, you probably could make it to the top in that old pair of tennis trainers… but will your feet thank you?
WHERE TO START
Arriving at the start of the walk you will need to drive down some narrow country roads towards Howtown from Pooley Bridge. If possible, try to avoid peak times as traffic can be bad with few places to pass. It is important to keep an eye out for the last passing place as it is not uncommon for you to need to reverse back down the road.
The postcode for Howtown if you are using your Sat Nav is CA10 2LZ and this should lead you to the Howtown Pier. Parking is possible by the Pier on the roadside but this is limited.
As an alternative access to Howtown, consider taking a trip on the Ullswater steamers.
Parking in Howtown is free but be sure to be considerate of other road users. The road is used by farm vehicles and blocking it could result in your car getting ‘bumped’ by a tractor. It is not uncommon during peak times to see cars parked in passing places, don’t be that person.
FACILITIES
Unlike more popular areas of the Lake District, like Keswick and Windermere, there are no facilities in Howtown. To me, this is a positive as it draws fewer people but it is worth noting you should be prepared for a wild wee if you get caught short. There is a bar at the Howtown Hotel which is great for a post-walk pint.
HOWTOWN PIER TO BONSCALE PIKE AND ARTHURS PIKE ROUTE
Beginning your walk from Howtown Wyke, you will need to take the access gate to the left of the Outward Bound facility entrance. This gate will give you access to a field often home to sheep who don’t worry are more than used to company. Follow the trodden path through the centre of this field towards the upper corner near the houses. Here you will find a small set of steps and another gate that will lead you out onto the public footpath.
There are two options here, left for the mellow route or right for the direct route up Swarth Fell. The path up Swarth Fell follows a steeper path that zig-zags its way to the top at 504m. From here the hard work is done with 361m of ascent already being gained.
Hallin Fell as seen from Bonscale Pike
There is a path, not shown on OS maps, that links Swarth Fell and Bonscale Pike with only around 500m of walking between the two summits. The summit of Bonscale Pike is marked with a small Cairn with two towers, Bonscale Towers, slightly further along.
At Bonscale Pike it is worth taking in the views of Ullswater and the surrounding Fells. From here you have a clear view of Hallin Fell which is one of my favourite Lake District Fells.
From Bonscale Pike you will need to descend slightly and cross Swarth Beck. You will notice and old stone building that has seen better days, this is an ideal place to cross the waterway and refill any water bottles. Onwards and upwards from here for the final push towards Arthurs Pike.
Arthur’s Pike Cairn
The path from here is well-trodden and clear leading the way to a small cairn that sits atop Arthur’s Pike. Although it is possible to continue your walk from here I would advise finding the larger Cairn atop Whinny Crag as the perfect spot to take in the views. On a clear day, this viewpoint offers unobstructed views of Ullswater Lake and is an ideal place to watch the steamers.
It is this spot that I chose to cook my breakfast and enjoy the views during Episode 3 of #mywainwrightsproject
Cairn at Whinny Crag
When you decide it is time to head down from Arthur’s Pike, you will follow the path between Arthur’s Pike and White Knott. The walk down to White Knott is mellow with the path descending 100m over 1.5km of walking.
Similarly to the previous summits, White Knott also has impressive views across Ullswater. The path extends past White Knott before cutting back on itself just before Aik Beck. Keeping Barton Park on your right, follow the path past Ravencragg back towards Howtown.
Path back to Howtown
Once atop Swarth Fell this walk offers incredible continuity in the views of Ullswater and the surrounding fells. Although the walk up Swarth Fell can be considered hard work, the rest of this walk is much more mellow. Whether atop; Swarth Fell, Bonscale Pike, Arthur’s Pike or White Knott the views across the Lake stretch from Pooley Bridge to Aira Point, before disappearing behind the prominent Fells.
TOP TIPS FOR WALKING BONSCALE PIKE & ARTHUR’S PIKE
Parking in Howtown can be limited so set off early at peak times. During weekends, evenings and holiday periods Howtown are popular so plan accordingly. With this in mind if you arrive in Howtown and find there is no parking don’t be that person who blocks the road by parking in a passing place!
There are steep sections on this walk so do some forward planning and allow for rest breaks. Hiking poles are a godsend on steeper pitches and can help relieve backspin if carrying a pack.
Pack for a change in weather. This walk should take a moderately fit individual two-three hours. Weather wise a lot can change in that time so consider packing some layers in your backpack.
Having the ability to navigate is essential, especially in incremental weather. You can follow my route on the OS Maps App here on any smartphone.
If you are relying on your phone for navigation, bring a battery pack or a way to charge your device.
Take some lunch with you! There are so many nice spots to stop, eat and enjoy the views.
Thanks for reading this post. If this post provided value for you then you can support me in making future content by using the link below to Buymeacoffee
Alternatively you can use the tip jar: https://paypal.me/sjburgess87?locale
View back towards Beda Fell
MORE FROM THE FAR EASTERN FELLS
Hallin Fell | Wainwrights Far Eastern Fells
HALLIN FELL
Hallin Fell Summit offers potentially the best views for the least amount of effort. At 388 metres high, Hallin Fell is diminutive but don’t let that put you off. Hallin Fell summit is marked by a large Obelisk. Popular with visitors in the summer, a Hallin Fell Wild Camp can present some pretty incredible views of Ullswater Lake. Hallin Fell is a Wainwright in the Far Eastern Fells. You can find my Hallin Fell walking routes below.
Hallin Fell Summit
HALLIN FELL INFORMATION
HEIGHT IN METRES 388m
HEIGHT IN FEET 1273ft
RANGE Far Eastern Fells
GRID REFERENCE NY 433198
Have you walked Hallin Fell? Let me know what you thought of the views below.
APPROPIATE MAP
WAINWRIGHT’S GUIDES
HALLIN FELL VIDEO
HALLIN FELL MAP
HALLIN FELL WALK SUGGESTIONS
Follow this walk that takes in Hallin Fell and Steel Knotts from Howtown.
HALLIN FELL GALLERY
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RELATED POSTS
Hallin Fell and Steel Knotts Walk | Lake District Walks
If you are looking for a short walk that offers exceptional views, it really is hard to beat Hallin Fell. In Wainwright’s own words Hallin Fell is “beautifully situated overlooking a curve of Ullswater and commanding unrivalled views“. Combining Hallin Fell with Steel Knotts makes for a beautiful circular walk that takes in some of the best views in the Far Eastern Fells.
This Hallin Fell and Steel Knotts walk ensures scenic views of lakes, valleys and distant peaks whilst ticking two Wainwrights of your list.
This post covers the route that I took to climb Hallin Fell and Steel Knotts, however as with all outdoor activities caution should be taken and you should ensure you have the correct equipment, knowledge and understanding to complete your walk. With this in mind, other routes are available and may be more suitable, so proceed with caution. An example being my route up Birkie Knotts was the most direct route. Other more subtle paths are available and should be considered.
That being said, this route is popular amongst Lake District walkers as it is fairly simple, short, but offers substantial rewards in regards to the views.
WALK OVERVIEW
Start - Howtown Pier
Parking is available at Howtown Pier on the road side. Be sure not to park in the passing places as these are vital to ensure traffic can flow. If the roadside parking is full or you fancy a shorter walk, you can also park at the Church in Martindale.
Tip - Park in Pooley Bridge and take the Ullswater Steamer to Howtown. The lake crossing certainly adds something special to any Howtown adventure.
Distance - 7.2km / 4.5 miles
You can reduce this by parking in Martindale, however, the stroll past Ullswater and Howtown Pier is nice and that’s why I included it in my walk.
Duration - 2hr 40 - 4 hr
Depending on fitness levels and how often you are stopping to take photos of the stunning Ullswater.
Difficulty - Moderate
It is hard to justify difficulty for me as everyone’s boundaries are different. That being said this walk is very achievable to the majority of people. You can ensure the route is easier by taking a more subtle path up Birkie Knotts which could be quite steep to some.
Total Ascent - 512m
Map - You can find my full route here on Ordance Surveys website
PREPARING FOR YOUR HALLIN FELL & STEEL KNOTTS WALK
NAVIGATION
As with all good walk preparation you will need a way to navigate on your walk. I use the OS Maps App on my phone and you can find my route here
If you are navigating using your phone be sure to do the following;
Download the map before you leave wifi - you CANT guarantee you will have signal in the mountains.
Bring a battery pack or way to charge your device.
Print a copy of the walk before you leave from the Ordance Survey Website as a back up.
I also use my Suunto Watch as a backup navigation tool, however if you are not confident that your technology will last you should purchase the Ordnance Survey Map for your walk.
WEATHER
If there is one thing that is for certain when walking in British Mountains is that you can never be sure of the weather. Even on days that are forecast glorious sunshine it is best to be prepared for the worst, as conditions can change rapidly.
Check the latest Hallin Fell weather here
WHAT TO WEAR
When hiking in the UK it is important to remain flexible and with this in mind layers are certainly your best option. Mountain environments can be unforgiving and weather can change quickly. It is normal to see winds increasing and temperatures dropping as you reach your chosen summit. Make sure to pack a spare layer for the summit.
Suitable footwear in the form of walking boots or shoes is advised, especially when conditions are less than ideal. A good pair of walking boots will offer your ankles support, keep your feet dry and ensure you have grip especially on those wet days. Yes, you probably could make it to the top in that old pair of tennis trainers… but will your feet thank you?
WHERE TO START
Getting to the start of the walk involves driving down some narrow country roads towards Howtown and Martindale from Pooley Bridge. Be careful as traffic can be busy at peak times and there are few places to pass. It is important to keep an eye out for the last passing place as it is not uncommon for you to need to reverse back down the road.
The postcode for Howtown if you are using your Sat Nav is CA10 2LZ and this should lead you to the Howtown Pier. Parking is possible by the Pier on the roadside but this is limited.
If you fancy a cool alternative to access Howtown consider taking a trip on the Ullswater steamers.
Parking is also possible by St Peter’s Church in Martindale. The church sits at the base of the paths to Hallin Fell and Steel Knotts so is ideally located. This area can become busy so be sure to head up early or late to guarantee a parking spot.
Parking in both Howtown and Martindale is free but be sure to be considerate of other road users. The road is used by farm vehicles and blocking it could result in your car getting ‘bumped’ by a tractor.
FACILITIES
Unlike more popular areas of the Lake like Keswick and Windermere there are no facilities in Howtown and Martindale. To me this is a positive as it draws less people but it is worth noting you should be prepared for a wild wee if you get caught short.
HOWTOWN PIER TO HALLIN FELL VIA STEEL KNOTTS ROUTE
Starting your walk from Howtown Pier is nice as it means you begin your walk at water level with a scenic stroll along the edge of the lake. Parking by the pier in Howtown can be tough to come by during peak times. Consider setting of early to ensure a parking space. Alternatively, use the Ullswater Steamers boats from Pooley Bridge to drop you in Howtown. You can find the timetable here.
Taking the footpath along the Lake leads to a set of narrow steps that lead you onto the base of Hallin Fell. Taking a right at the top of the steps leads you on a beautiful walk around the base of Hallin Fell, but I will save that for another day. Turn left and follow the path up towards Martindale. The path overlooks a winding road that leads to Martindale and the path meets the road at the top by St Peter’s Church.
When you reach the Church of St Peter in Martindale it is likely you will see cars parks along the road. This is an alternative starting point to your walk.
Wherever you choose to start your walk you will need to follow the footpath behind the Church towards Birkie Knott. The path up Birkie Knotts is steep but well trodden with a clear footpath to follow. I prefer taking the steeper route up, however if you prefer, it is possible to take a more mellow route to the right of Birkie Knott.
A brief stop at the top of Birkie Knott will be well deserved and rewarding with views looking back towards Pooley Bridge and Dunmallard Hill. This is also a pretty decent spot to watch the steamers pulling into Howtown.
Steel Knotts Pikeawassa Summit
Continue onwards towards Steel Knotts along the mellow but winding path that runs along the ridge. The rocky ridge of Steel Knotts is unmistakable with a imposing summit name Pikeawassa. The ridge itself is around two miles in length and overlooks the steep valley of Fusedale. On a clear day you will be able to take in some beautiful views of the Martindale Horseshoe and the Helvellyn range from Pikeawassa. At 432m, Steel Knotts Pikeawassa is achievable for many and has to this point been one of my favourite Lake District summits.
To continue onwards to Hallin Fell take the path towards Brownthwaite Crag before meeting a stone wall. From the wall you will be able to see a path that loops back towards the church at Martindale. Running above Nettlehowe Crag, with some uninterrupted views of Beda Fell on the opposite side of the valley, this path is a really enjoyable aspect of this walk.
As mentioned, this path will lead you back to the church at Martindale and all you have to do is cross the road onto Hallin Fell. There are various paths up Hallin Fell with the most popular potentially being one of the steepest. You will see the wide, well trodden path leading its way up Hallin Fell and your only job is to follow it.
As seen from Hallin Fell
When walking the path up it is essential to take time to turn around and look at the scenery behind you. The views back towards the Martindale Horseshoe are impressive, letting your mind run away with the many possibilities of walking routes in the area. It was on this part of the walk that I decided to make Beda Fell Episode 2 in #mywainwrightsproject
WATCH EPISODE 2 BELOW
One of the most impressive parts of this route up Hallin Fell is just how well the path hides the views of Ullswater until, at the last minute, revealing stunning views of the lake on three sides of the fell. As you round the final bend at the top of the path the Obelisk reveals itself and it is hard not to feel blown away, and not by the Cumbrian wind. The views from Hallin Fell rival many places in the world where hills and mountains meet lakes or water. And it is this, combined with the simplicity of the walk, that makes Hallin Fell popular with walkers from all over the UK.
Incredible views from atop Hallin Fell
After you have filled your camera roll with the many epic panoramas visible from atop Hallin Fell it is time to descend. Again you have options here, however a personal favourite of mine is the steep route to the east leading back to Waternook. This route should be avoided in adverse whether as the gradient can make it difficult to maintain footing. In fair weather or for those experienced and prepared this pathway drops away towards the banks of the lake allowing the scenery to open up around you. It is from this descent that you will find your way back onto the original path leading to the staircase and Howtown.
Path back down Hallin Fell looking back towards Pooley Bridge and Dunmallard Hill
TOP TIPS FOR WALKING STEEL KNOTTS AND HALLIN FELL
Whether you are planning to park in Howtown or Martindale be prepared to set off early at peak times. During weekends, evenings and holiday periods Martindale and Howtown are popular so plan accordingly. With this in mind if you arrive in Howtown or Martindale and find there is no parking don’t be that person who blocks the road by parking in a passing place!
There are steep sections on this walk so do some forward planning and allow for rest breaks. Hiking poles are a godsend on steeper pitches and can help relieve backspin if carrying a pack.
Pack for a change in weather. This walk should take a moderately fit individual a two-three hours. Weather wise a lot can change in that time so consider packing some layers in your backpack.
The paths are fairly clear but bring some navigation to help you if adverse weather should arise. You can follow my route on the OS Maps App here.
If you are relying on your phone for navigation, bring a battery pack or a way to charge your device.
Take some lunch with you! There are so many nice spots to stop, eat and enjoy the views.
Preparing for breakfast on Hallin Fell
Are you planning a Steel Knotts & Hallin Fell Walk? Feel Free to ask me any questions in the comments!
Thanks for reading this post. If this post provided value for you then you can support me in making future content by using the link below to Buymeacoffee. T
Alternatively, you can use the tip jar: https://paypal.me/sjburgess87?locale
Views from atop Steel Knotts
Yad Moss Ski Resort Guide
Nestled in the North Pennines, Yad Moss is a far cry from the French Alps but retains a certain charm. The locally run ski resort relies on the support of volunteers but has developed a thriving ski community in the north of England. Yad Moss is proud to have England’s longest ski lift.
YAD MOSS FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Arriving at Yad Moss, a short 5-minute walk follows roadside parking to the ski tow. The tow and the ticket office (shed) can be seen from the road and you soon realise that you are a world away from modern amenities, not that this is a bad thing. The single tow has been providing lift-served skiing in the Pennines for the last 40 years, I couldn’t wait to try it out.
YAD MOSS SKI AREA
Yad Moss has an optimistic piste map that includes 7 runs and 4km of pistes. I say pistes because Yad Moss actually has a piste basher! This means that when the conditions are right the skiing can consist of some epic groomers.
The ski area at Yad Moss relies on fences to ensure that drifted snow remains in the resort and isn’t swept across the Moors. The resort itself offers 120m of vertical descent with the highest point being at 720m.
LIFTS AT YAD MOSS
Yad Moss has a single poma lift which serves the ski area. This button lift has a claim to fame, it is England’s longest. It might also contest for England’s bumpiest with conditions along the lift tow being variable. Ensure you are comfortable riding a button lift before heading to Yad Moss. The Yad Moss Poma is 600m in length.
YAD MOSS SNOW RECORD
Unlike skiing and snowboarding in the Alps, the snowfall at Yad Moss is incredibly variable. The team of volunteers are reactive to changes in weather and does a great job of running the tow as and when it is possible.
RAISE LIFT TICKETS
MEMBER LIFT TICKETS
A new adult member season pass at Yad Moss costs £55. Renewing your membership is reduced to £40. Find more information on membership here.
DAY PASSES
A day of skiing at Yad Moss will cost £20 for non-members
TRAVEL TO YAD MOSS
WHERE IS YAD MOSS?
Yad Moss is located in Cumbria, England, just a few miles from the small town of Alston. While it may not be as well-known as some of the other ski resorts in the UK, it is still easily accessible by car.
If you’re driving, it’s about a two-hour drive from both Newcastle and Manchester, and there is ample parking available along the roadside at Yad Moss.
YAD MOSS PROS
Yad Moss is a Ski resort in England so gives us the chance to ski at home.
There is a great community feel at Yad Moss.
You can ski all winter as a member for £55 which is great value… if the snow comes.
Yad Moss is a spectacular setting with great views across the Pennines.
YAD MOSS CONS
Yad Moss has unreliable snowfall so you have to react rather than plan
Yad Moss has runs that are mellower than Raise in the Lake District.
YAD MOSS SKI RESORT INFO
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Raise Ski Resort Guide
When I first heard about Raise I thought it was a joke. Being from the south of England and growing up wishing for just one white Christmas I just hadn’t considered that further north the conditions would be in place to run a ski tow. Older and wiser Raise, now my local ski resort, is the home to the Lake District Ski Club who operate the tow at Raise.
RAISE FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The ski tow at Raise is a good one hour walk from the car park. I arrived on the Glennridding side and parked up by YHA Helvellyn. From the moment I parked up I began to get a feel for Raise. Welcomed by another enthusiastic skier, I was getting my first impressions of the community feel. We began the walk in the sun with snow a distant sight, but gradually ascended towards the snow line. It dawned on me that there will be no apres crowd here. Everyone at Raise is there for the skiing, this left me even more excited to meet other like minded souls.
As we reached the snow line, the members hut and the tow lift became visible and everything was feeling more real!
RAISE SKI AREA
The ski area at Raise is small but offers 9 ungroomed runs. Snow fences are used to trap the majority of the snow and ensure that the Cumbria’s windy conditions don’t spoil all the fun! The ski area offers opportunity to explore further with backcountry routes possible on The Dodds and Helvellyn. The longest run at Raise is nearly a mile long, which pails in comparison to the 16km offering at Bansko but I know where I had more fun.
Two runs of note are Savages Gully and Presidents Run. Savages Gully was the original run at Raise dating back to the use of a tractor tow whereas Presidents Run is the easy route back down to the base, named after a former ski club president who wasn’t very capable.
The views from the ski area are impressive with views across Ullswater and Thirlmere. From the top of Raise you can see across to Helvellyn which is impressive covered in snow.
LIFTS AT RAISE
There is one lift at Raise ski resort. A simple button tow lift that runs 360m up to the top of Raise. The Lake District Ski Club was founded in 1936 and has run a tow maintained by the club members ever since. The lift operates around 60 days during a good winter with maintenance meetings taking place during the summer to ensure everything is in working condition.
RAISE SNOW RECORD
Unlike skiing and snowboarding in the Alps the annual snowfall at Raise is unlikely to be massive. But a little bit of snow can offer up some fantastic conditions. Depending on the year the amount of days Raise is open can vary greatly but good years offer the potential for 40-60 days of lift assisted snowboarding in the Lakes!
SEASON DATES
Although never consistent it is possible for the season to start at Raise in November. There will be periods throughout the winter without enough snow to run but as the video above shows… good years can offer snow in May!
RAISE LIFT TICKETS
MEMBER LIFT TICKETS
Member season passes are £50 and allow for unlimited use of the lift tow on Raise.
DAY PASSES
A day of skiing at Raise will cost £30 for non members although depending on conditions and time of arrival discounts are offered.
TRAVEL TO RAISE
WHERE IS RAISE?
The easiest route up to Raise is from the village of Glenridding. There is a car park at the end of a long road between Glenridding and the YHA Helvellyn. This road is more gravel then road and when covered in snow would require winter tyres and snow chains for non 4x4 vehicles. The car park is reserved for hostel guests and ski club members so if you are neither of these things you will need to walk the track from Glenridding.
HOW TO GET TO RAISE
Getting to Raise will require a one hour walk up hill to the tow. The route follows a winding track up to raise. You should be well equipped with correct footwear and if you can carry your ski’s/board on a rucksack you will be happier. I walked up day one in snowboard boots which was fine, but day two I opted for walking shoes and was much more comfortable.
Depending on the amount of snow it is possible to skin up from the snow line. If you have touring gear this will make your ascent much quicker.
RAISE PROS
Ski resort in England
Really nice community run ski resort
Ski all winter as a member for £50
Spectacular setting with awesome views of the Lake District Fells
RAISE CONS
Unreliable snow.
GET IN TOUCH
Thanks for reading this Raise ski resort review and I hope it has answered many of your questions. I’ve given my opinion but I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via the socials. Have you been to Raise ski resort? What were your opinions? Are there better ski resorts in the UK?
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IF YOU FOUND THIS POST USEFUL AND YOU THINK IT MAY ALSO HELP OTHERS, PLEASE LIKE, SHARE AND COMMENT TO PROMOTE IT TO OTHERS
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