Outstanding Outlyers

the far reaching view from hampsfell

Last week we were back in the Lakes, this time staying in Ambleside. The weather was wonderful, with just one misty and damp day, but for early March it was fantastic.

The dog, now a year old, was introduced to the fells gently and we tackled some of the Outlying Fells. For those of you who don't know, they are the 116 lower fells around the edges of Lakeland that Wainwright suggested people not able or inclined to tackle the high fells, enjoy for their shorter length, lower height and fabulous views.

We certainly enjoyed climbing  Hampsfell, Grandsire, Nameless School Knott, Latterbarrow, Wool Crag, Beacon Fell, Reston Scar, Hugill Fell, Cunswick Scar and Scout Scar.

They really are little gems. Dare I say it, but it's actually quite refreshing to have a shorter walk, a gentler gradient and an easier climb and yet still be back in time for a cup of coffee or tea, depending on when you start. I think most of the actual walking probably took us no more than an hour, sometimes less, although the dog does like to mess around a lot and it takes us at least an hour longer to get anywhere! The views are just breathtaking.

The favourites of the week were Hampsfell in Grange over Sands which has the most beautiful views over Cartmel and Morecambe Bay and a spectacular limestone pavement. Cunswick Scar is a dream of a walk with far reaching views over the Howgills, Pennines and right round to the high fells of the Coniston range. Scout Scar (which you could literally toddle up in 10 minutes) has breathtaking views, while Latterbarrow was tackled from Wray Castle with a lovely start meandering through the grounds then a beautiful, gentle walk up though woods to the huge summit cairn where I was just stunned into silence at the panorama around us.

They really are such wonderful, smaller fells with the most astonishing views. Perfect for a gentle walk.

CARtmel from hampsfell

early morning at the wray castle boat house

panoramic views from latterbarrow

windermere coming into view from the latterbarrow descent

the views from grandsire

the howgills from cunswick scar

stunning little scout scar