Walk Description

Today we had arranged to meet up with fellow OFC members Dave, Josie and Ian on the Birker Fell Road near Devoke Water.  The weather was fantastic and we could clearly see the Scafells and Harter Fell teasing us with the promise of an excellent walk.  We took a leisurely stroll to Devoke Water and soaked in its peaceful atmosphere, whilst we took photographs of the wonderful reflections in its still, glass like waters.  However today was a day made for walking and unable to resist the pull of the higher fells, we decided to make the most of the day and climb Harter Fell.  So we made our way back to our cars and drove down to Eskdale, where we parked near Doctor Bridge.

We parked at the Woolpack and as it was almost opening time, we thought we would pay a visit to the bar before the walk.  Unfortunately it didn’t seem as though the bar was going to open on time, so at 11:05 we set off to Doctor Bridge, where we stopped for a few photographs.  We then took the very obvious path towards Penny Hill Farm and the along the permissive path that avoids the farm yard itself.  It was just after here that we missed the path that would have taken us along one of the old peat paths to the top of the moor.  Instead we walked along the lower path towards Jubilee Bridge and picked up the bridleway to Harter Fell.  This meant that we had the good views for longer on the way back.

As we got closer to Harter Fell, Steve and Dave noticed what looked to be a grassy rake leading to the summit.  They were off like a shot to test their ‘new’ route.  Josie, Ian and I continued along the main path and then followed the small cairned path towards the summit.  We were soon joined by the two hardy explorers.  Their saunter up the grassy rake had started well but soon developed into a full blown scramble.  Having tested their scrambling skills to the full, Steve and Dave decided to join us on the traditional path.  It wasn’t long before we reached the summit.  Ian, Steve and Dave were determined to find the highest point and to explore as many of the rocky crags as possible.  Josie and I found a comfortable rock with a good view and had lunch.  Steve managed to persuade me that I should at least make an attempt to reach the summit, so feeling a little more confident with his support, I allowed him to guide me up the scramble to the summit.  It felt good to have actually reached the top, having chicken out on my two previous visits, however I was glad when I finally got both feet back onto level ground.  Before leaving Harter Fell, we made the small detour round to the trig point for the obligatory photos.

We then picked our way down the narrow cairned path, which is a little steep and rough in places.  We reached Spothow Gill in a surprisingly short time and crossed the fence onto the open moor.  We now followed the path to the waterfall where Spothow Gill plunges down the edge of the plateau.   It’s a quiet, mysterious place just begging to be photographed, which of course we did.  The path from here meanders slowly downwards following one of the old peat roads.  In places the path is slightly boggy and provides ideal conditions for the carnivorous Butterwort and Sundew which are more apparent earlier in the year. 

With one last look back towards Hard Knott, we walked down to Penny Hill Farm and Doctor Bridge.  From here it was a very quick stroll back to the car and a thirst quenching glass or two in the Woolpack Inn (at least it was open now!).  It had been a very enjoyable day, with magnificent views and excellent company.

Route & Planning

Details and Route Map

Photo Opportunities

Walk Profile

The route map shown here should not be used as a replacement for the appropriate map(s). Before attempting the walk you should check the suitability of this route in relation to your capabilities and experience.