NY4509 : The path to Harter Fell

Harter Fell (Mardale)

779m Elevation
149m Prominence
England Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NY4509 : The path to Harter Fell

David Brown Photo source

Overview

Harter Fell (Mardale)

Harter Fell is a captivating peak in the heart of the Lake District, standing at a respectable 812 meters. For those who fancy themselves as connoisseurs of the great outdoors, this Marilyn is a must-visit.

Geology

The mountain is a fascinating mix of volcanic rock, primarily composed of andesite. This geology gives Harter Fell its distinctive rugged appearance, shaped by millennia of natural processes. The remnants of ancient volcanic activity can still be seen in the rock formations today.

Routes

Mardale Head Route

This popular route begins at the Mardale Head car park. Instead of slogging through mundane flatlands, you'll meander through lush pastures, with a steep ascent that’s good for the thighs. The journey involves around 6.5 km of moderately challenging terrain, making it perfect for those looking to stretch their legs. It typically takes about 3.5 hours – ample time to ponder the meaning of life (and whether you’ll ever finish that Netflix series).

Summit Features

Once you reach the summit, you’ll be greeted by a trig point and a friendly stone cairn, both excellent for those all-important Instagram moments. It’s not every day you get to stand atop a fell with breathtaking views!

Terrain Type

Expect a rugged, rocky climb with patches of grass and the odd muddy spot, especially after a rain shower. Proper footwear is highly recommended unless you fancy a mud bath!

Views

From the summit, views stretch over the limpid waters of Haweswater Reservoir and various peaks of the Naddle Valley. On particularly clear days, you can even spot the distant shapes of the Pennines - a sight worth clambering up for. Late spring and early autumn are best for views, when the heather blooms and the skies clear, offering a visual feast that can take your breath away.

Hazards

As with many fells, Harter Fell has its share of potential hazards, including unstable rocks due to erosion. Weather changes can be sudden, so it's wise to pack an extra layer or two this time of year.

Access

Parking is available at the Mardale Head car park, but be prepared to arrive early as spots can fill quickly. For the intrepid souls relying on public transport, a bus stop in the village of Shap connects you to your hiking dreams, though it’s a trek to Mardale Head from there.

Facilities

Once you've conquered the climb, the nearby village of Shap has a few cafes and toilets to refresh the weary hiker. Don’t forget to treat yourself to some cake – you’ve earned it!

History

Relatively speaking, 'Harter' comes from the Old Norse 'herta' meaning to herd, a nod to its historic ties to sheep farming in the area.

In summary, Harter Fell is not just a climb; it's an invitation to connect with nature, enjoy panoramic views, and refresh those legs. Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Harter Fell (Mardale)

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

Striding Edge, Helvellyn and Catstye Cam

12 km ~6h 30m Hard

View route

Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

View route

Tarn Hows Fast Route

4.1 km ~1h Moderate

View route

Bow Fell from Langdale

View route

Route planning notes

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

Mardale Head Route

This route takes you from Mardale Head up through delightful pastures, leading to a steep but rewarding ascent to the summit of Harter Fell. A great way to experience the picturesque lakes and lush valleys.

6.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

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

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Simm Hewitt Nuttall Submarilyn Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

779m

2,556 ft

Prominence

149m

Coordinates

54.4764, -2.8353

NY459093

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S OL7N

At the Summit

The summit boasts a prominent trig point and a small stone cairn, making it a perfect backdrop for a celebratory selfie after the climb.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with sections of grass and heather; muddy paths can be found after rain.

Harter Fell is primarily composed of volcanic rock, particularly andesite, which lends to its rugged terrain. The rock formations are a fascinating result of ancient volcanic activity, and the area is part of the larger Borrowdale Volcanic Group.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the stunning expanse of Haweswater Reservoir, the towering peaks of the surrounding fells, and on a clear day, even the distant shape of the Pennines.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Harter' is believed to derive from the Old Norse word 'herta', meaning 'to herd'. The area surrounding the fell has a long history of sheep farming.

Historical Significance

Harter Fell is part of the traditional walking routes in the Lake District and provides insight into the region's natural and agricultural heritage.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Mardale Head car park provides ample space, but it can fill up quickly during sunny weekends; arrive early or risk having to park down the road, which is not ideal.

Public Transport

While public transport options are limited, the nearest bus stop is in the village of Shap, followed by a scenic (and hilly) walk to Mardale Head.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities on the mountain itself, but the nearest village of Shap offers a few cafes and shops, including options for a hearty brew and a slice of cake after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loosely piled rocks near the summit may be unstable, and be cautious of sudden weather changes typical in mountainous regions.

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 Harter Fell (Mardale)?

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

Are there other walkers around Harter Fell (Mardale)?

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 Harter Fell (Mardale) search or of course create your own walk for Harter Fell (Mardale)

Can I organise a walk to Harter Fell (Mardale)?

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 Harter Fell (Mardale).

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 Harter Fell (Mardale)?

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 Harter Fell (Mardale) 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

Harter Fell (Mardale) location map

Grid reference: NY459093

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

High Street

High Street

828m

Red Screes

779m

Place Fell

657m

St Sunday Crag

841m

Fairfield

873m
See 5 more nearby hills