“Many of the lesser fells of Lakeland make up for their lack of height by an aggressive fierceness of expression that seems more appropriate to greater mountains and an intimidating ruggedness and wildness of terrain that makes their ascent rather more formidable than their size and altitude would suggest. Middle Fell, overlooking Wastwater, comes into this category”
A Wainwright
To the north of the Wasdale Valley, high above the shores of Wastwater and with views across the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man lie the mountains of Buckbarrow and Middle Fell which rise north to the summit of Seatallan.
Although these fells are only a stones throw from the more popular Wasdale mountains of Scafell Pike, Great Gable and Pillar far fewer venture onto the slopes.
The views from these fells towards the higher summits such as Scafell Pike, Scafell and Great Gable across Wast Water are outstanding, one of the best views of the Scafell Range is from Middle Fell, looking across Wast Water.
“The most extensive views are not necessarily the finest, and here, from Middle Fell, is a charmer restricted in distance by the Wasdale Mountains, which however, compensate for the deficiency by their own striking appearance”
A Wainwright
From Greendale we will climb north, above Greendale Beck to climb the south western shoulder of Middle Fell. After a short stop at the summit to admire the spectacular views over Wastwater to the Scafell Range we will descend the northern shoulder of the fell, above Greendale Tarn.
A grassy slope will bring us to the summit of Seatallan, the highest point of the day and a fine viewpoint to the west, over the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man.
The southern shoulder of Seatallan will bring us down past the cairns of Cat Bields and Glade How to the summit of Buckbarrow, a short walk from the summit of Buckbarrow will bring us to an even better viewpoint over the Wasdale Valley, with Wast Water below our feet.
From Buckbarrow we will descend south to the roadside and walk the short distance back to Greendale.
Each participant will be required to bring suitable equipment for their chosen event, please see Kit List tab above.
Where to meet: Greendale, Wasdale
Postcode: CA20 1EU
Grid Reference: NY 144 056
Directions
Gosforth can easily be found just off the A595, to the south of Egremont, follow the road through the village, following the signs for Wasdale. Pass through the village and continue on this road to Greendale, a small collection of houses.
Parking will be found on the roadside, just past the houses, we will meet here.
Please do not park on the private car park opposite the cottages.
Bus Services
There is no bus service to Greendale.
Stagecoach bus timetables can be viewed here
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