Overview

This route begins at the head of the lane passing North through Green Quarter and takes in Gatesgarth Pass, Nan Bield Pass and the valley of the River Kent. Parking is NOT at a premium here.

The walk itself varies from fairly gentle inclines starting at an altitude of about 250 metres to a more demanding 'trudge' to Harter Fell summit at around 770 metres. The weather conditions can be as variable as the slopes, ranging from glorious sunshine in the lower valleys to horizontal hailstones blowing across the tops.

Refreshment can be found in the nearby villages of Kentmere, Staveley or Ings.

Distance approx. 10 miles (5 hours).

Beginning the walk at 465050, the entrance to Stile End, there is parking for about 4 vehicles in a small lay-by on the single-track road. Taking the signed, public footpath off the road in an Easterly direction, there is a gentle rise through farmland and open fields.

On reaching the first ridge you are confronted by the steep slopes of Swinklebank Cragg and Borrowdale Moss. At the foot of the Fells is the valley of the River Sprint. Nestled therein are the buildings of Whirl Howe, Till's Hole and Sadgill.

On dropping down towards Sadgill you are given a choice of path. Taking the left path through the wooden gate you are led towards Sadgill Wood on your left and the small stone bridge over the Sprint (alt 189 metres). Taking the track to the left, it follows the river valley with a steadily increasing incline. The path is broad and solid as it rises and passes the small, picturesque waterfall at 477079 (alt 423 metres) then begins to level out onto open moorland with the rise towards Gatesgarth Pass ahead.

Passing through another wooden gate there is the ideal opportunity to take a break sitting on the low walls of a second small bridge. Looking back down the valley gives you a stunning view of the rolling fells of Kentmere Pike to the right and Sleddale Fell to the left, between which you have just passed.

Resuming the walk towards Gatesgarth Pass you will come to a metal gate where the path again splits. The path ahead leads down towards the shore of Haweswater, losing all the height advantage you have worked to gain. To your left is Adam Seat and to the right is Branstree and Selside Brow. Take the left path, skirting to the right of Adam Seat. You now climb a steepening, stony path directly to the summit of Harter Fell.

Pressing on now to the summit of Harter Fell (alt 772 metres) the effort is well worth the spectacular, almost aerial, view of Haweswater Reservoir. With Bampton Common in the far distance, there are the slopes of Whelter Crags and Mardale Common to the left and right respectively.

Heading towards Nan Bield Pass you can drop down the grassy slope to your left, in the direction of Kentmere Reservoir. As you near the water you again meet up with the path and turn left in a Southerly direction.