Melmerby Fell

To the north of Cross Fell there is a fine Pennine walk up Melmerby Fell. The walk is similar in character to Cross Fell but shorter. It is quiet place and an excellent option to achieve a less frequented visited peak.

The Walk

Apparently fell runners regularly take to the slopes of Melmerby Fell. I am not sure why they have heard of the mountain but walkers have not. Certainly I had not heard of it. Melmeerby is situated roughly 10 miles north east of Penrith in the Een Valley and apart from a well known bakery has little to bring it to anyone’s notice. However I found it a fine village when I visited to climb Melmerby Hill. When I arrived for the climb in early September, my only companion was a glider making use of the thermals thereabouts. The situation is without doubt wild with the remote top of Cross Fell only three and a half miles to the south. However it is the remoteness which made this walk and many around this part of the Pennine fells so attractive.

After a steepish initial climb the trackless moorlands open up (challenging in the mist). Here a wrong turn could lead to a very long trudge through the peat hags. However stick close to the rim of Melmerby Fell and there should be no such problems.

Recommend

From the summit of Melmberby Fell I headed east to join the Roman Road heading south. It is an enjoyable undulating highway but makes for a long day. The easiest return is to follow your outbound route.

Navigation Tips on Melmerby Fell

The best descent takes you on to the Maiden Way (an old Roman Road) and off beyond the Muska Hill ridge. Do not head direct from Muska Hill to Fellside but go south to Ladslack Hill and then in to Townhead. It is on a right of way. It is a near 3 mile walk back to Melmerby along the road.