NY4307 : Cairn on Ill Bell

Ill Bell

757m Elevation
124m Prominence
England Country
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NY4307 : Cairn on Ill Bell

Michael Graham Photo source

Overview

Ill Bell: A Hiker's Haven

Elevation: 838 meters
Location: Lake District, UK

Ill Bell might sound a bit ominous at first, but don’t be fooled by its name! This splendid peak is a cherished spot among hikers who appreciate both a good challenge and extraordinary views. Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Ill Bell is often regarded as a hidden gem for those wanting to escape the bustling tourist trails.

Geology

The rocky summit of Ill Bell is part of the Lakeland slate geology. Its unique volcanic stones provide not just a backdrop of rugged beauty but also carry the stories of ancient Earth's history. Don’t worry, there’s no exam on rocks at the top—unless you count the rock that just tried to trip you!

Routes

There are a couple of popular routes to the summit. The Nan Bield Pass Route is the go-to for many, stretching around 8.5 km. This moderate trek offers a nice balance of challenge and scenic beauty. Meanwhile, the Windermere Trail Route gives a more gradual ascent, perfect for a leisurely day out, stretching approximately 12 km.

Summit Features

The summit is adorned with a large cairn—think of it as the mountain’s hat. It’s a great spot to take a selfie and maybe enjoy a snack while admiring the stunning views all around. Remember, a summit is not a summit without a photo opportunity!

Terrain and Hazards

Expect a mix of rocky paths and gentle slopes, but you might encounter some boggy bits—so it’s wise to wear boots that think they’re a bit more adventurous than they really are. As always, be cautious of loose rocks, and keep an eye on the weather; Lake District moods can change faster than you can say 'scone'.

Nearby Summits

If you fancy extending your walk, Froswick and Harter Fell are nearby peaks that offer rewarding climbs and are definitely worth a visit.

Access

To get to Ill Bell, head to the Kentmere Reservoir where parking is available. The village of Staveley is your best bet for cafes and loos—essential for any hiking escapade!

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned mountain goat or a Sunday stroll enthusiast, Ill Bell has something to offer every hiker. Make sure to pack your sense of humour along with your packed lunch!

Explore routes near Ill Bell

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.

Nan Bield Pass Route

A popular ascent starting from the Kentmere Valley, this route takes you over the pass before leading directly to the summit.

8.5 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Windermere Trail Route

A slightly longer route that meanders through picturesque trails starting from Windermere, offering a more gradual ascent.

12 km ~6 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Simm Hewitt Nuttall Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

757m

2,484 ft

Prominence

124m

Coordinates

54.4620, -2.8708

NY436077

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL7N

At the Summit

The summit features a sizable cairn, perfect for a photo op, and offers ample space for a picnic if you’ve brought enough sandwiches to feed an army.

Terrain & Geology

A blend of rocky paths and grassy slopes with some boggy sections depending on the recent weather.

Primarily composed of volcanic rock, Ill Bell features stunning crags and steep sides, providing a glimpse into the geological history of the area as part of the Lakeland slate formation.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of the Kentmere Valley, the southern fells, and on a clear day, even the Irish Sea can be spotted in the distance.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ill Bell' possibly derives from an Old Norse term meaning 'sick bell,' referring to its prominence in unusual weather conditions.

Historical Significance

The mountain has been a favourite among local hikers for generations, contributing to the area's rich tradition of walking and outdoor pursuits.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the Kentmere Reservoir, which is about a 15-minute walk from the trailhead.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service runs from Windermere; check with local operators for seasonal schedules.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities, including cafes and toilets, can be found in Staveley, which boasts several delightful refreshment options.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, especially on the upper sections; take care when the paths are wet and muddy. Beware of sudden weather changes – it's the Lake District after all!

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 Ill Bell?

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

Are there other walkers around Ill Bell?

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 Ill Bell search or of course create your own walk for Ill Bell

Can I organise a walk to Ill Bell?

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 Ill Bell.

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 Ill Bell?

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 Ill Bell 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

Ill Bell location map

Grid reference: NY436077

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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