Underrated Fells in the Lake District’s Far East

Where solitude, skylines, and old paths await

When most visitors think of the Lake District, their minds go to Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, or Catbells. But head east of Ullswater and Haweswater, and you’ll find a very different Lake District — one where the summits are quieter, the ridges longer, and the rewards just as rich.

The Far Eastern Fells might lack the crags and drama of the central ranges, but what they offer is something many walkers crave: space, solitude, and sky. These underrated hills are perfect for long-legged walks, sunrise hikes, or peaceful peak bagging.

Here are five lesser-known fells in the Lake District’s Far East that are worth your time — especially if you’re seeking a break from the crowds.

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1. Loadpot Hill (672 m)

• Start Point: Askham or Helton
  
  
• Why go: A gentle giant. This grassy whale-back of a fell rises steadily above Ullswater’s quiet south end. You’ll walk past old Roman roads, stone pillars, and enjoy big-sky views across to the Pennines. Ideal in winter for a safe, navigable ridge.

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2. Beda Fell (509 m)

• Start Point: Howtown or Martindale
  
  
• Why go: Nestled between Place Fell and the Nab, Beda Fell gets far fewer visitors but has one of the best ridge walks in the district. The path from Boredale Hause is clear, undulating, and utterly peaceful — with lake views almost the whole way.

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3. Selside Pike (655 m)

• Start Point: Mardale Head
  
  
• Why go: Often walked as part of the High Street circuit, Selside Pike deserves more attention on its own. The route from Haweswater via the Old Corpse Road is steeped in history, and the summit provides expansive views down the drowned valley of Mardale.

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4. Arthur’s Pike (533 m)

• Start Point: Roehead or Pooley Bridge
  
  
• Why go: A perfect short walk with serious rewards. From the summit you get a balcony view over Ullswater’s northern end and across to Blencathra. Combine it with Bonscale Pike for a satisfying half-day loop.

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‍5. The Nab (576 m)

• Start Point: Martindale
  
  
• Why go: The Nab has a quiet, wild character that makes it feel more remote than it is. Its association with deer watching and its proximity to the Martindale red deer sanctuary means you may well spot wildlife. Not always easy to access due to private land, so check routes in advance.

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Tips for Exploring the Far East

Use OS Explorer OL5 — paths are less trodden, and navigation is key.

Access points are fewer — villages like Askham, Pooley Bridge, and Martindale make good bases.

Pack for remoteness — these fells are quieter and less serviced. Mobile signal is patchy.

Link-ups are rewarding — many of these fells connect via ridges, making them perfect for longer horseshoe walks.

The Far Eastern Fells might not have the celebrity status of their central cousins, but that’s exactly the point. If you want space to think, skies that stretch for miles, and the kind of solitude that makes you fall in love with hillwalking all over again — this is your patch.

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Photo credit: Jonny Gios