Middle Fell

Middle Fell

Middle Fell rises to 582 metres above Wasdale. The recorded summit is a cairn at NY 15079 07219. Summit record.

This Western Fells Wainwright has its named top at the same location as the true summit. The panorama takes in Wastwater, the Scafells, Yewbarrow, Great Gable and Kirk Fell. Wainwright top and views.

Greendale circuit

The National Trust describes a 5.6 km circuit taking about three hours. Route overview.

Start at Greendale, NY144056. Walk north uphill; at NY143061, keep left with Greendale Gill beside you. Stay on its eastern bank past the stream junction at NY143064, crossing wet ground to Greendale Tarn. Follow the eastern shore north to NY149079. Turn southeast uphill, then south to Middle Fell’s summit. Descend south-southwest on the ridge path, which steepens and zigzags through rocks. Rejoin the outward path at NY143061, then head south to the start. National Trust directions.

The eastern tarn-side path can be awkward. Take particular care on this section rather than treating the circuit as an easy lakeside stroll. Independent route account.

The southern ridge has faint paths and rock outcrops; the eastern flank is craggy. Stay with the planned ridge descent and check your position when visibility deteriorates. Ridge photographs and terrain.

Volcanic bedrock

The summit is mapped as Long Top Tuff, within the Borrowdale Volcanic Group. Summit geology.

The British Geological Survey describes the Long Top Tuff Member as rhyolitic tuff and lapilli-tuff, with layered ash deposits and local pyroclastic breccia. BGS unit description.

Access and facilities

Greendale has limited roadside parking; leave access clear. Starting-point information.

Toilets are at Lake Head car park, farther along Wasdale. Facilities.

As checked on 6 November 2026, the Wasdale Explorer’s summer season has ended. Its seasonal route serves Greendale from Ravenglass via Gosforth and Nether Wasdale. Check the National Park’s latest service information before planning a car-free visit; do not assume a bus will be running. Wasdale Explorer.

Use mapped access land and paths, follow local signs and keep dogs controlled around other people and livestock. National Park access guidance.

Before setting out

Allow extra time for stops, difficult conditions and the return. Check a mountain forecast and plan to finish before dark. Carry a map and compass, waterproofs, warm clothing, food, water and a headtorch. Leave your route and expected finish time with someone. Keep the group together and turn back if conditions worsen. In an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Mountain Rescue advice.

Mobile reception is absent in parts of Wasdale. Save essential travel information before arrival and do not depend on a phone signal for navigation. Local travel advice.