Best natural monuments around Setmurthy include prominent fells and summits that offer extensive views of the Lake District. This region provides a landscape characterized by mountains, woodlands, and scenic viewpoints. It serves as a destination for outdoor exploration, featuring natural features that contribute to the area's appeal. The natural monuments here are primarily fells and summits, providing varied terrain for hiking and exploration.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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On a clear day, this fell has some great views of the surrounding Northern Fells.
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The accent up Ling Fell, from the Greystones approach, Was a quite tough and steep. Once it levels out though, you feel the burn from the legs ease and your greeted with a well earned actual trig.
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Both decent options between Skiddaw South Top and Skiddaw, south west heading towards Carl Side, require sure footedness and appear rather treacherous as you head off the top down the scree.
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Distinct from Skiddaw this is another small summit in the bag, topped with a sculpture made from scavenged iron and steel pieces.
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Skiddaw is frequently dismissed as dull and featureless. In the right conditions however, its (comparitively) smooth contours appear to soften the harsh, bleak summit plateau. The boundary between land and sky starts to become less distinct and it takes on an eerie stillness.
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Ling Fell and Sale Fell are the most northerly of the Wainwright Fells in the north western group. Overlooking Embleton and Wythop Mill and with commanding views of Bassenthwaite, the Skiddaw fells and further afield to Criffel in Galloway, both hills make good viewpoints despite their diminutive size. Ling Fell, so named because it is covered all around by Ling heather (Calluna vulgaris), is the more westerly and the slightly higher (373m) of the pair. It looks stunning in August with huge swathes of pink. Ling Fell is easily climbed from just above Wythop Mill where there is adequate parking.
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The Setmurthy area offers a variety of natural features. You can explore the scenic summits of Setmurthy Common and Watch Hill, which provide expansive views across the Lake District. Additionally, Setmurthy Woods (Setmurthy Plantation) is a mixed woodland haven with a network of paths, and Holme Force Waterfall, a beautiful cascade, is a short drive away.
Some of the most popular natural monuments for hiking include Skiddaw Summit, known for its phenomenal views of Lakeland. Another favorite is Little Man (Skiddaw) summit, offering expansive views of Derwent Water. Hopegill Head is also highly regarded for its extensive views of surrounding peaks.
Setmurthy Woods is particularly enchanting during late April and early May when the woodland floor is carpeted with a spectacular display of bluebells, creating a magical walking experience. However, its diverse flora and peaceful atmosphere make it enjoyable throughout the seasons for woodland walks.
Yes, Holme Force Waterfall is considered a hidden gem. Although not directly within Setmurthy Woods or Common, this beautiful cascade is located a short drive away in nearby Holme Wood and is highly recommended for waterfall enthusiasts.
From summits like Skiddaw Summit and Little Man (Skiddaw) summit, you can expect phenomenal panoramic views across the Lakeland fells and Derwent Water. Hopegill Head also provides extensive views of surrounding peaks, while Ling Fell Summit offers terrific views to the north-west, overlooking Cockermouth and even the Galloway hills in Scotland on a clear day.
The area around Setmurthy offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Sale Fell – Lothwaite loop' or 'The Pheasant Inn – Wythop Walk loop'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are routes like 'The Lakes Distillery – Bassenthwaite Lake loop'. Gravel biking is also popular, with options like 'Whinlatter Pass – Cyclewise Whinlatter Bike Shop loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the respective guides for running, cycling, and gravel biking around Setmurthy.
Yes, some natural monuments offer challenging climbs. Skiddaw Summit is considered a challenging climb, as is Hopegill Head, which can be part of the Coledale Horseshoe. Outerside Summit is another challenging Wainwright fell in the north-west Lake District.
Visitors frequently praise the phenomenal and expansive views from the summits, especially those of the Lakeland fells and Derwent Water. The sense of tranquility on places like Setmurthy Common and Watch Hill is also highly valued. Many appreciate the diverse terrain for hiking and the opportunity to experience the Lake District's landscape from unique vantage points.
Absolutely. Many natural monuments around Setmurthy are suitable for intermediate hikers. Little Man (Skiddaw) summit and Ling Fell Summit are both categorized as intermediate climbs, offering rewarding experiences without being overly strenuous for those with some hiking experience.
Yes, Setmurthy Common and Watch Hill feature traces of old boundary walls and old quarries, providing a glimpse into the historical elements embedded within the landscape. Additionally, Outerside Summit offers a great vantage point to look at Force Crag Mine, which closed in 1990, just below Grisedale Pike.
The natural monuments around Setmurthy are highly appreciated by the komoot community. They have received over 360 upvotes and more than 230 photos have been shared, indicating a strong positive response to the area's natural beauty and outdoor opportunities.
Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather in the Lake District, it's advisable to wear appropriate hiking gear. This includes sturdy walking boots, waterproof and windproof layers, and comfortable clothing. Layering is key to adapt to different conditions, especially on higher fells where weather can be unpredictable.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Setmurthy: