Binsey from Bassenthwaite

• Stands isolated from its neighbours
• Good views of the Solway and Northern Fells
• Pretty woodland near Bassenthwaite

bassenthwaite-from-binsey

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I was on the verge of not including Binsey in the top 100 because the hill itself is no great shakes. The climb is uninteresting and, although the views are impressive, particularly over the Solway Firth and the hills of Galloway, 99% of any visitors to the summit are simply there to tick it. However the walk from Bassenthwaite adds so much more to the fell and sets in in its proper context. The walk initially passes through untramelled farmland and quiet lanes as it takes a beeline for the fell itself. The climb is quite steep from this, the south side, but the lovely grass quarry track to the south west is an absolute delight. Here views over a large chunk of the Northern Fells thoroughly impressed Wainwright (who included Binsey despite being outside his normal criteria for inclusion) as does the small reservoir of Over Water. The return to Bassenthwaite passes Over Water before arriving at ‘pink’ Outhwaite Hall and concluding with a mile long stroll through some delightful woods.

Recommend: A touch of mountain spotting from the summit both in the Lakes and the Galloway hills

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OS Map:	O/S 1.25,000. OL4 The English Lakes North West. Buy Map
Start Point:	NY 230322. Pat the pub head up the lane known as the Rake, passing woodland on your right.
Height to Climb:	354ms (1161 feet)
Terrain:	The lanes are all quiet, even in summer, the fellside paths are good but the farmland may be wet and muddy after rains.
Eating & Drinking:	The Sun Inn in Bassenthwaite is a traditional Lakeland pub selling a good pint.
Similar Walks Nearby:	Sale Fell, nr Cockermouth Bassenthwaite to Threlkeld Skiddaw via Ullock Pike
Places to Stay: