John Peel's Fells at Bassenthwaite
Recommended by
Our view
"A visit to the killing fields of legendary huntsman John Peel."
Walk directions
From the centre of Bassenthwaite village, pass the Sun Inn and turn right into Park Wood. Follow this for 1.25 miles (2km) to a T-junction, with a signpost pointing to Orthwaite, and turn left. Continue for about 650yds (594m) to a junction with a farm track coming in from the right, and a public
bridleway sign.
Turn right along this track and through a gate signed ‘Uldale Commons’. Follow the farm road to a public bridleway sign on the left. Take the bridleway and head uphill. It’s a fairly steep climb to Brockle Crag before it levels out.
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Additional information
Terrain
- Country lanes, bridle paths, footpaths (indistinct in places) and some rough walking through Burntod Gill
Landscape
- Fells, fields and lakes
Dog friendliness
- Under control in sheep country, particularly at lambing
Parking
- Street parking in Bassenthwaite village
Toilets en route
- None on route
About the walk
This part of the Lakes, at the ‘Back o’Skiddaw’ and across the fells of Uldale and neighbouring Caldbeck, is where John Peel and his pack of hounds galloped in pursuit of foxes. Although possibly the world’s most famous huntsman, he was far removed from the stereotypical red-coated country...
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Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
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Been on this walk?
Send us photos or a comment about this route. Or recommend a route of your own.
Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
About the area
Cumbria's rugged yet beautiful landscape is best known for the Lake District National Park that sits within its boundaries. It’s famous for Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, and Derwent Water, ‘Queen of the English Lakes', but other lesser-known areas in the south, such as the Lune Valley and the coastal towns, are secret gems of wide cobbled streets and rolling hills.
Nearby places to stay
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Nearby places to stay
Holly Bank
Occupying an elevated place on the edge of Bassenthwaite Village, Holly Bank commands a breath-taking panoramic view taking in Skiddaw, Sale Fell, Lords Seat and the Borrowdale peaks. R...
Holly Bank Cottage
Occupying an elevated place on the edge of Bassenthwaite Village, Holly Bank commands a breath-taking panoramic view taking in Skiddaw, Sale Fell, Lords Seat and the Borrowdale peaks. R...
Lake District Castle Inn Hotel & Spa
Overlooking Lake Bassenthwaite, Lake District Castle Inn Hotel is ideally situated for exploring Keswick, the northern Lake District and the Cumbrian coast. The accommodation, extensive...
Peter House Cottages
On a Lakeland hill farm at the foot of Skiddaw, close to Bassenthwaite village, you’ll find these two comfortable barn conversions, Peter House Cottage and Pembroke Cottage. There’s no ...
Peter House Cottage
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Pembroke Cottage
...
Bassenthwaite Lakeside Lodges
Overlooking Scarness Bay on the lake’s eastern shore, Bassenthwaite Lakeside Lodges offer classic Lake District National Park views in peaceful surroundings. Subject to strict condition...
Ravenstone Lodge Country House Hotel
Close to both Keswick and Bassenthwaite, set in rolling countryside, this small country house hotel offers warm, genuine hospitality along with high quality food. Bedrooms are well equi...
Places to eat nearby View all
