The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Martindale

For a challenging experience, consider Helvellyn Summit, known for its thrilling horseshoe ridge including Striding Edge and Swirral Edge. It's considered one of Britain's most cherished mountains, offering magnificent views. Another option is the circuit of the Eastern Martindale Fells, which can cover around 15 miles and over 1,000 meters of ascent, including peaks like Bonscale Pike and Kidsty Pike.

Yes, Fairfield Summit, as the centerpiece of the Fairfield Horseshoe, offers easy, airy hiking over grassy slopes. This looped ridge walk is an ideal choice for those new to ridge walking, often starting from Ambleside or Rydal.

Dove Crag Summit is notable for the impressive cliff on its east-facing flanks, which dramatically drops into Dovedale and contains the famous Priest's Hole cave. For wildlife, The Nab is located within a deer reserve, home to England's oldest native red deer herd. Walkers are requested to stick to preferred routes to avoid disturbing the herds.

Gowbarrow Fell Summit is an easily accessible Wainwright summit on the northern shore of Ullswater. It provides excellent views of Ullswater to the south, and the Mell Fells and Blencathra to the north. Arthur's Pike, part of the Eastern Martindale Fells, also offers impressive views of Ullswater.

Beyond hiking, you can explore various outdoor activities. For mountain biking, there are routes like the 'Sticks Pass to Whiteside Fell' or the 'Helvellyn loop'. For more challenging mountaineering, consider routes such as 'Striding Edge – Helvellyn Summit loop' or 'Patterdale Village – St Sunday Crag loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the MTB Trails around Martindale and Mountain Hikes around Martindale guides.

Yes, there are several easy hikes available. For instance, the 'Aira Force and Gowbarrow Park Trail' is a short and accessible option. Other easy routes include loops around Martindale offering views of Ullswater, such as 'View of Ullswater – St Peter's Church, Martindale loop'. More easy options can be found in the Easy hikes around Martindale guide.

Visitors frequently praise the magnificent and staggering views from the summits, especially from peaks like Helvellyn Summit and Fairfield Summit. The diverse landscapes, from challenging arêtes to gentle grassy slopes, and the opportunities to observe wildlife like the native red deer, are also highly appreciated. The area is known for its serene beauty and the chance to experience a true Lakeland classic.

The Martindale area is rich in Wainwrights, particularly within the Eastern Martindale Fells. These include Bonscale Pike, Arthur's Pike, Loadpot Hill, Wether Hill, High Raise, Kidsty Pike, Rampsgill Head, The Knott, and Rest Dodd. Gowbarrow Fell Summit is also a well-known and accessible Wainwright.

The Nab divides the upper Martindale valley and is part of a deer reserve, home to England's oldest native red deer herd. While access to the summit is open, walkers are requested to stick to preferred routes to avoid disturbing the herds. The ascent to The Nab's summit involves navigating a difficult peat bog, so be prepared for challenging terrain.

While Martindale itself is remote, you can find amenities in nearby villages. Howtown, Glenridding, and Pooley Bridge, all located around Ullswater, offer options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation. These villages serve as good bases for exploring the surrounding fells.

The best time to hike the mountain peaks around Martindale is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. However, conditions can change rapidly in the Lake District, so always check the local weather forecast before heading out. Winter hiking is possible for experienced individuals but requires appropriate gear and caution due to snow, ice, and shorter days.