Join us for a superb mountain walk in one of the quieter corners of the Lake District as we explore the beautiful Mardale valley and ascend two magnificent Far Eastern Fells: Harter Fell (778m) and Mardale Ill Bell (760m). This route combines remote mountain scenery, dramatic ridges, hidden tarns, ancient packhorse routes and some of the finest views over Haweswater.
Starting from Mardale Head at the southern end of Haweswater Reservoir, we climb via historic mountain passes into the heart of the Far Eastern Fells. Despite being less frequented than many Lakeland summits, these mountains offer a wonderfully wild character and a real sense of solitude.
The waters below conceal a fascinating history. In the 1930s, the original village of Mardale Green was abandoned and later submerged when Haweswater was expanded to create a reservoir supplying water to Manchester. During periods of exceptionally low water, remnants of the old village, walls and roads can still occasionally be seen emerging from beneath the reservoir.
The historic passes crossed during today’s walk, including Nan Bield Pass, were once important trading routes linking the communities of Mardale, Kentmere and Longsleddale. Stone shelters located near the pass are reminders of the route’s importance to travellers crossing these remote mountains in difficult weather.
Standing proudly above the head of Haweswater, Harter Fell is one of the finest viewpoints in the Far Eastern Fells. At 778 metres (2,552 feet), the summit occupies a strategic position overlooking three valleys: Mardale, Kentmere and Longsleddale. The views back along the full length of Haweswater are simply breathtaking and improve with every metre of ascent.
Our route continues to Mardale Ill Bell (760m), a beautiful fell situated between High Street and Harter Fell. Beneath its craggy northern face lies Blea Water, a spectacular corrie tarn and the deepest tarn in the Lake District at approximately 63 metres (207 feet). Its perfectly formed glacial basin provides one of the most impressive mountain landscapes in Lakeland.
Nearby, the peaceful waters of Small Water nestle beneath the cliffs of Harter Fell, offering another stunning example of glacial landscape formation and a perfect rest stop during the walk.
Throughout the walk we enjoy panoramic views across:
Meeting Time: 09:30
Meeting Point: Mardale Head Car Park, Haweswater, CA10 2RP
Parking is available at Mardale Head Car Park, located at the head of Haweswater Reservoir. A voluntary parking donation may apply to help support the maintenance of the area.
Combining fascinating local history, glacially carved landscapes, hidden mountain tarns and two superb Wainwright summits, this walk offers a wonderful opportunity to discover the wild beauty and tranquillity of the Far Eastern Fells above Haweswater.
