Central Fells

The Central Fells are generally lower than the surrounding hills, the Lake District's dome-like structure having a slight dip in the middle.

The most influential of all such authors was Alfred Wainwright, whose Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells series has sold in excess of 2 million copies,[1] being in print continuously since the first volume was published in 1952.

To the west runs the long valley of Borrowdale, flowing in this instance from Stake Pass at the head of Langstrath all the way to Keswick.

The parallel eastern boundary is created by Thirlmere and the Vale of St John, all of these valleys ultimately joining the River Derwent.

Beginning with Walla Crag and Bleaberry Fell in the north, the range climbs gradually to its apex at High Raise, the "ankle" in the boot analogy.

In this sector are Great Crag and Grange Fell, lower hills exposing more rock and popular as short climbs.

The main ridge descends south-east from High Raise as the ground between the Rivers Brothay and Rathay gradually narrows to a point at Ambleside.

In this section are the many tops of Blea Rigg, Silver How (a viewpoint over Grasmere) and finally Loughrigg Fell, easily accessible from White Moss car park and often combined with a walk along the terrace path above Rydal Water.

In general, quieter walking can be had in the centre of the range from High Seat to Ullscarf, while many walkers will be met on Walla Crag or the Langdale Pikes.