The Far Eastern Fells of the Lake District are a hidden gem, offering a serene and less-crowded alternative to the more popular areas of Lakeland. Nestled in the Cumbrian Mountains, this region boasts a unique blend of rugged landscapes, challenging hikes, and breathtaking vistas that are sure to captivate any outdoor enthusiast.
Highest Point: High Street
The highest point in the Far Eastern Fells is the majestic High Street, standing tall at 828 meters (2,718 feet) above sea level. This iconic fell is a popular destination for hikers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding fells and valleys.
Wainwright Fells: 36 Gems to Explore
The Far Eastern Fells are home to 36 Wainwright fells, named after the renowned author Alfred Wainwright, who divided the Lake District into seven distinct geographical areas. These fells are covered in volume 2 of Wainwright’s iconic guidebooks, providing a wealth of information and inspiration for those seeking to conquer them.
Unique Landscape Features
Compared to other areas of the Lake District, the Far Eastern Fells are characterized by their gentler slopes and easier walking terrain, as the fells merge seamlessly into the surrounding moorlands. However, this does not diminish their beauty, as the region is still marked by steep U-shaped valleys, rough grass, heather, and bracken, with exposed rock and deep corries on the eastern flanks.
Hiking Routes: Endless Possibilities
The Far Eastern Fells offer a variety of hiking routes and itineraries for adventurers of all skill levels. One popular route covers all 36 Wainwright fells in the area over four days, with a total distance of 99 kilometers and over 5,100 meters of ascent. Other notable routes include the Fusedale Round and the Martindale Horseshoe, each offering unique challenges and stunning scenery.
Accessibility and Camping
The Far Eastern Fells are accessible by public transport, with bus stops at Patterdale Hotel and Town Head Troutbeck. For those seeking a more immersive experience, wild camping is an option, but it is essential to follow the “Leave No Trace” principles to preserve the delicate environment.
Topographical Highlights
The higher section of the Far Eastern Fells forms a horseshoe shape around the Ullswater catchment, with fells like Stony Cove Pike, Thornthwaite Crag, High Street, Rampsgill Head, and High Raise. The western side of the ridge features steep U-shaped valleys, while the eastern side boasts deep corries and exposed rock, creating a diverse and captivating landscape.
Wainwright Bag Count: A Measure of Exploration
Rambling Man, a renowned hiking enthusiast, has documented walks in the Far Eastern Fells, with a Wainwright bag count of 17 out of the 36 fells in the region. This statistic serves as a testament to the wealth of exploration and discovery that awaits visitors to this enchanting corner of the Lake District.
Discover the Far Eastern Fells
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newcomer to the Lake District, the Far Eastern Fells offer a unique and rewarding experience. From the majestic High Street to the lesser-known gems of the region, this area promises to captivate and inspire all who venture forth to explore its captivating landscapes.
References:
– Komoot. (n.d.). All the Wainwrights in seven weekends — Far Eastern Fells. Retrieved from https://www.komoot.com/collection/1218144/-all-the-wainwrights-in-seven-weekends-far-eastern-fells
– Wikipedia. (n.d.). Far Eastern Fells. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Far_Eastern_Fells
– Rambling Man. (n.d.). The Far Eastern Fells – Walks – Rambling Man. Retrieved from https://ramblingman.org.uk/walks/wainwrights/far_eastern_fells/
– Wainwright Routes. (n.d.). The Far Eastern Fells – Wainwright Routes. Retrieved from http://www.wainwrightroutes.co.uk/fareasternfells.htm
– Striding Edge. (n.d.). The Far Eastern Fells – Striding Edge. Retrieved from https://www.stridingedge.net/fells/wainwrights/the-far-eastern-fells/