Hesk Fell

About Hesk Fell

Located between the Esk and Duddon valleys, this gentle, grassy dome is often overlooked in favour of the high peaks to the north. While the terrain can be heavy going, the summit offers an unobstructed, grandstand view of the Scafell massif across the deep trench of Eskdale.

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Did You Know?

• •The name is likely derived from the Old Norse 'hestr' (horse) and 'skeith' (a track or racecourse), suggesting these slopes were once used as a high-altitude grazing ground or even for pony racing.
• •Alfred Wainwright was famously dismissive of the fell in his 'Outlying Fells' guide, noting it had 'many shortcomings' and claiming the exceptional view of Scafell Pike and its neighbours was the only reward for the effort.
• •From the summit, walkers are treated to a rare profile view of the Scafell range, with the dramatic crags of Dow Crag and Pen standing out above the hidden depths of Upper Eskdale.
• •The fell is most commonly climbed as part of a circuit from the Birker Fell road, usually paired with its lower neighbour, The Pike, which sits just over a mile to the south-east.
• •The ascent provides an excellent masterclass in Cumbrian bog-hopping, as the plateau seems uniquely designed to retain every drop of rainwater that falls upon it.