NY4198 : Ellson Fell

Ellson Fell

537m Elevation
163m Prominence
Scotland Country

Good walks are even better shared.

NY4198 : Ellson Fell

Rude Health Photo source

Overview

Ellson Fell: A Lake District Gem

Ellson Fell is a delightful fell nestled within the picturesque Lake District, known for its moderate elevation and stunning views.

Geology

The mountain is composed primarily of sedimentary rocks, including mudstone and sandstone, revealing the region's rich geological history. It offers a unique perspective on how erosion over time has shaped the stunning landscapes we see today.

Routes

The most popular route starts in the charming village of Patterdale. This 7.5 km walk takes about 3.5 hours and offers moderate difficulty, making it accessible to a wide range of walkers. It's a scenic journey weaving through verdant valleys and lush landscapes that leave you pinching yourself at the sheer beauty of it all.

Summit Features

Upon reaching the summit, hikers will be greeted by a small cairn and a trig point. These are the perfect spots to rest, take in the surroundings, and capture some memorable photos.

Terrain Type

The terrain consists of grassy slopes interspersed with rocky outcrops, gradually steepening as one approaches the peak. A well-placed foot can mean the difference between breath-taking views and a tumble, so tread carefully!

Views

Once at the top, the views are nothing short of spectacular! Watch the horizon unveil Ullswater to the east and, if fortunate, spot the majestic Helvellyn rising to greet you from the south. The best times to enjoy these sights are in spring and autumn when the colours are vibrant and the air is crisp.

Hazards

As is the nature of the Lake District, be prepared for sudden weather changes. The sun may be shining one moment, and the next, you might find yourself tiptoeing in a rainstorm. It’s advisable to carry a waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear; after all, slipping can be more than a little embarrassing!

Nearby Summits

Ellson Fell is surrounded by other stunning peaks, including Place Fell and Angle Tarn Pikes, both worth a visit if you fancy extending your adventure.

Access

The nearest parking is at the Patterdale Hotel, but make sure to arrive early to secure a space! Public transport options are available, with local buses connecting Patterdale to Penrith. The village itself is very quaint and offers several facilities:

  • Cafes and Pubs: Perfect for refueling.
  • Toilets: Available at the village hall or various hotels.

History

The mountain's name, 'Ellson', likely derives from Old Norse, suggesting it has deep-rooted connections to the area’s historical Norse settlements. Over the years, it has become a cherished hiking destination, woven into the folklore and culture of the Lake District.

Now that you have the lowdown on Ellson Fell, it’s time to lace up your boots, pack some sandwiches, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in one of England's finest natural spaces!

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Ellson Fell

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Patterdale to Ellson Fell

Starting from the picturesque village of Patterdale, this route winds through lush valleys and offers stunning views.

7.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Donald Dewey

Elevation

537m

1,762 ft

Prominence

163m

Coordinates

55.2771, -2.9297

NY410985

OS Map

79

Explorer: 324

At the Summit

At the summit, you will find a small cairn and a trig point, perfect for a celebratory selfie or elevenses.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops gradually steepening towards the summit.

Ellson Fell primarily consists of sedimentary rocks, particularly mudstone and sandstone, which provide a rich glimpse into the geological history of the Lake District. The fell is a great example of how erosion has shaped the landscape over millennia.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of Ullswater to the east, and on a clear day, you might catch sight of Helvellyn to the south.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ellson' may derive from Old Norse meaning 'Ellis's hill', suggesting a historical connection to Norse settlers.

Historical Significance

Ellson Fell has served as a popular hiking destination for generations and is significant in local folklore.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is available at the Patterdale Hotel, with a small parking fee. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Public Transport

The closest bus stop is in Patterdale, accessible via local services from Penrith.

Nearby Facilities

Patterdale has local cafes and pubs where one can refuel after a hike, with facilities available. Toilets can be found at the village hall or hotels.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of sudden weather changes; the Lake District is notorious for its capricious climate. Also, loose stones can cause slips, so watch your step.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Ellson Fell?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Ellson Fell through the maps

Are there other walkers around Ellson Fell?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Ellson Fell search or of course create your own walk for Ellson Fell

Can I organise a walk to Ellson Fell?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Ellson Fell.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Ellson Fell?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Ellson Fell here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NY410985

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.