Beda Fell [Beda Head]

About Beda Fell [Beda Head]

Beda Fell offers a classic ridge walk through the heart of Martindale, separating the quiet valleys of Boredale and Bannerdale. At 509 metres, it provides some of the best unobstructed views of Ullswater’s reach without the crowds found on neighbouring Place Fell.

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Did You Know?

• •The fell's name likely derives from the Old English personal name 'Beda', suggesting the land was historically associated with an individual of that name rather than a geographical feature.
• •Geologically, the fell is part of the Borrowdale Volcanic Group, specifically featuring the Birker Fell Andesite Formation which gives the ridge its rugged, knobbly appearance.
• •It forms a central part of the Martindale Deer Forest, home to the oldest pure-bred red deer herd in England, which has occupied these fells since at least the 12th century.
• •The summit, known as Beda Head, is marked by a small cairn on a rock outcrop, but the undulating nature of the ridge provides several convincing 'false summits' for the unwary navigator.
• •The initial ascent from the valley floor is surprisingly punchy; it’s the kind of gradient that makes you suspect the 509-metre height measurement was taken by someone standing at the bottom looking up through tears.