Image shared for Mungrisdale Common and Bowscale Fell from Mosedale Valley Wainwright
Upland / Hill Circular

Mungrisdale Common and Bowscale Fell from Mosedale Valley Wainwright

Cumbria

Distance
8.3 mi
Est. time
6h
Difficulty
Hard
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

Linking Mungrisdale Common with Bowscale Fell creates a rewarding Northern Fells circuit that lets you tick off two Wainwrights in one outing. It is a satisfying combination of wide, pathless upland and a more defined summit with expansive views.

Starting in Mosedale Valley, the walk begins quietly along the valley floor, surrounded by steep grassy flanks and the gentle sound of the beck. This is a peaceful corner of the Lake District, far removed from the busier honeypots.

The ascent towards Mungrisdale Common is steady and increasingly open. Paths can be faint and the ground often wet, especially across the upper plateau. Good navigation is essential in poor visibility. The summit itself is a broad, grassy dome marked by a modest cairn. It may not be dramatic, but standing there knowing you have added another Wainwright to your list brings its own quiet satisfaction.

From Mungrisdale Common, the traverse to Bowscale Fell adds shape and character to the day. The terrain becomes firmer and the ridge more defined. Bowscale Fell feels like a more traditional summit, with clearer views and a stronger sense of arrival. Blencathra, Skiddaw and the surrounding Northern Fells spread out impressively on a clear day.

The descent back into Mosedale completes a natural loop, giving a well-rounded day on varied terrain. Expect around 8 to 10 miles in total, with steady climbing rather than relentless steep sections. Waterproof footwear is strongly advised, and wind can be a real factor across the exposed tops.

For anyone working through the Wainwrights, this is an efficient and enjoyable way to bag two in one go. More importantly, it offers space, solitude, and that proper fell feeling that keeps people coming back.

Walk details

County
Cumbria
Main location
Mungrisdale Common
Hill
Mungrisdale Common
Walk type
Circular
Category
Upland / Hill
Distance
8.3 mi (13.4 km)
Est. time
6h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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Route map for Mungrisdale Common and Bowscale Fell from Mosedale Valley Wainwright

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Along the route

6 places
Guidepost
Navigation
Ruins
Historic sites · 5.3 mi along
Bowscale Fell
Peak · 5.3 mi along
Parking
Essentials · 8.3 mi along
Parking
Essentials · 8.3 mi along
Guidepost
Navigation · 8.3 mi along

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