Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Place Fell from Patterdale by Side Farm and Boredale Hause, returning the same way. It covers 7.6 km with about 597 m of ascent, usually taking 3½ to 5 hours. The paths are mostly clear and improved, but the climb above the hause is steep and the summit plateau has several confusing rocky tops.
From Patterdale, cross Goldrill Beck towards Side Farm and follow the signed path onto the fell. Keep left at the early fork and climb steadily to Boredale Hause, a major junction between several valleys and ridges. Turn left onto the Place Fell path, which zigzags steeply up Steel Edge. A small rocky step or chimney can be bypassed on the left. The path reaches the trig point on a rocky outcrop at 657 m.
Return to Boredale Hause and Patterdale by the same line. This GPX does not continue north over High Dodd or descend to the Ullswater shore. In mist, the broad top and busy hause junction can send walkers into Boredale, Hartsop or Angle Tarn. Check the map at both points, and take care on steep stone steps when wet.
From Boredale Hause, the improved path zigzags steeply towards Place Fell's rocky summit.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Start in the village using permitted parking. Follow the lane towards Goldrill Bridge and Side Farm.
Cross the beck and continue past Side Farm on the signed public path. Keep to the route through the farmyard and close any gates behind you.
Pass through the gate onto open fell and keep left at the early path fork.
Follow the steady rising path above Patterdale. Views open back over Ullswater, and the busy junction at Boredale Hause soon comes into sight.
At the major crossroads, turn left onto the improved Place Fell path. Note the exact return direction.
Climb steep stone steps and bends. A short rocky chimney can be bypassed on the easier left-hand path.
Reach the trig point on the rocky 657 m top. Do not continue north across the plateau.
Retrace Steel Edge, Boredale Hause and Side Farm to the village. At the hause, choose the Patterdale path rather than routes into Boredale or towards Angle Tarn.
Essential Tips
Paths leave for several valleys. Use the map and GPX rather than following the largest group.
There is no need to force the short rocky step; an easier path skirts it to the left.
Patterdale spaces fill quickly. Park only in designated places, keep village access clear and have a legal alternative ready before travelling.
High Dodd and the Ullswater shore belong to longer circuits. This GPX returns through Boredale Hause.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Place Fell from Patterdale?
It usually takes 3½ to 5 hours to complete this route. The calculated time using Naismith's Rule is 2 hours 23 minutes, but most walkers will want to allow extra time for breaks and the steep sections.
Is there a way to avoid the rocky chimney on Place Fell?
Yes, there's an easier path that bypasses the rocky step on the left. You don't need to scramble up the chimney itself.
What's difficult about Boredale Hause?
It's a major junction where paths split off to several different valleys. In mist especially, it's easy to accidentally head into Boredale, Hartsop, or towards Angle Tarn instead of back to Patterdale, so check your map carefully.