NY4224 : Little Mell Fell Summit

Little Mell Fell

505m Elevation
225m Prominence
England Country

Good walks are even better shared.

NY4224 : Little Mell Fell Summit

Shaun Ferguson Photo source

Explore routes near Little Mell 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.

Mell Fells Trail

A gentle and straightforward ascent from the village of Watermillock, following well-defined paths.

3.2 km ~1.5 hours Easy

Direct Ascent from Matterdale

A steeper, quicker ascent that offers beautiful views over Ullswater.

2.5 km ~1 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Dewey Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

505m

1,657 ft

Prominence

225m

Coordinates

54.6080, -2.8945

NY423240

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S

At the Summit

The summit features a simple stone cairn, which provides a perfect photo opportunity against a backdrop of stunning views. A trig point can also be found, standing like a sentinel over the beautiful landscape.

Terrain & Geology

Predominantly grassy with some rocky sections providing a comfortable hike underfoot.

Little Mell Fell is primarily composed of volcanic rock, which offers a unique eroded landscape. The steep slopes are characteristic of the ancient lava flows, providing a fascinating study for geology enthusiasts.

Views & Scenery

Panoramic views of Ullswater, Helvellyn, and the surrounding fells, making this a photographer's dream (or the perfect excuse to insist on a coffee break at the summit).

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Mell' is derived from the Old Norse word for 'hill', a testimony perhaps to the fell's rugged yet inviting character.

Historical Significance

Little Mell Fell has been an important point of reference for local farmers and hikers for generations, providing access to some of the idyllic landscapes of the Lake District.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park at the end of the road near Watermillock, approximately 200 meters from the trailhead.

Public Transport

Buses run from Penrith to Watermillock, making it accessible for those relying on public transport. Check local schedules.

Nearby Facilities

Nearby facilities include the Watermillock Hotel, which serves food and drink, and there are several public toilets located in Penrith.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Muddy paths in wetter months, potential for sudden weather changes common to the Lake District, so be prepared!

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 Little Mell Fell?

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

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

Can I organise a walk to Little 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 Little 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 Little 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 Little 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

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NY423240

View on OpenStreetMap

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