Great Mell Fell

Great Mell Fell

Great Mell Fell Group Walks | Join a Walk

537m Elevation
201m Prominence
England Country

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Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Dewey Wainwright Birkett Sy Fellranger

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Elevation

537m

1,760 ft

Prominence

201m

Coordinates

54.6199, -2.9356

NY396253

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn and a small trig point that offers a perfect selfie spot for those who’ve made the trek.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops gentle slopes and occasional boggy patches.

Great Mell Fell is primarily composed of volcanic rock, specifically andesite, which is a remnant of volcanic activity from the early Pleistocene epoch. Its rugged slopes and distinctive shape are characteristic of this type of geology.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy expansive views over Ullswater, as well as the magnificent peaks of Helvellyn and the surrounding fells.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Mell' is derived from the Old Norse word 'mell', meaning hill or mound, indicating its homely status among the hills.

Historical Significance

The fell holds local historical importance with roots tracing back to agricultural practices and ancient trading routes.

Popular Routes

Great Mell Fell Circuit

Moderate

A loop starting from the village of Matterdale, this route takes you around the base of the fell before ascending the gently sloping summit.

5 km 2.5 hours

Direct Ascent from Dockray

Challenging

A steeper challenge that starts at the small hamlet of Dockray, taking a direct path to the summit. It provides a work-out for those who fancy a bit of a sweat.

2.5 km 1.5 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park at Dockray, which is often busy during weekends. Alternatively, parking is available at Matterdale Church.

Public Transport

The nearest bus stops are in Dockray, served by local buses from Penrith, although services may be infrequent.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities on Great Mell Fell itself, but Dockray and nearby Matterdale have a few tea shops and quaint pubs for refreshments post-hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of sudden weather changes common in the Lake District. The paths can be slippery when wet, and mist can obscure visibility.

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

Find Walking Companions

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Great Mell Fell?

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

Are there other walkers around Great Mell 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 Great Mell Fell search or of course create your own walk for Great Mell Fell

Can I organise a walk to Great Mell 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 Great Mell 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 Great Mell 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 Great Mell 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