Recently I have discovered some great fell hikes and trail runs, alongside the benefits of wild swimming in Bassenthwaite Lake and the fun of paddle boarding too. On our door step just a short walk away we have the bird haven “Silver Meadows”, a beautiful lowland stroll around a boardwalk with easy access for all, you can see Red Squirrels, Reed Buntings, Red Polls, Nut Hatches, a variety of finches and you may glimpse the Osprey over the lake.
Stroll further on and up towards “Riddings” and you will reach one of our favourite fells – Sale Fell. This is a glorious Wainwright mountain and at just 359m, it is challenging enough for all, but not a hard hike. The views at the top are fabulous as you will look down upon OBH, Bassenthwaite Lake, Skiddaw, Ulloch Pike, Dodd, across toward Buttermere, and The Solway Firth with the Scottish mountains looming beyond.
You can easily ascend to the summit with well trodden paths to follow or circumnavigate the base taking yourself around lothwaite and past the site of Wythop Old Church and back round. Ling Fell is right across the valley should you want to extend a loop walk, or a quick drive will find you at the other side of the lakeshores and the splendid walk up Dodd, a little more challenging at 502m, but again well marked routes and wow-factor views.
Like your food? Our incredible range of fresh made, locally sourced breakfasts will keep you fuelled while lunch or dinner could just blow your mind by visiting one of our local pubs – De Brito Craig’s Wheatsheaf in Embleton which has been an incredible discovery, as their cooking from scratch with local produce is mouthwateringly good, and creating quite a stir in the area. More on their food secrets next month, when we will be talking Orient Express Artisan Cafe (just over the road from us), the newly refurbished Pheasant Inn and more.
