Fountains Fell from Malham
The classic Malham scenery gives way to wide open fell country and a summit that feels properly remote despite being only 8km from the village.
The classic Malham scenery gives way to wide open fell country and a summit that feels properly remote despite being only 8km from the village.
A longer fell run from Malham onto the Pennine Way and up to Fountains Fell at 668m — an undervisited summit with big views over the southern Dales.
The route
From Malham, the route climbs out of the valley past Malham Tarn before joining the Pennine Way heading north. Fountains Fell (668m) rises steadily from boggy moorland — the summit is marked by several cairns and the remains of old coal pits used to fuel the monks of Fountains Abbey.
The summit
The views from Fountains Fell are less dramatic than its neighbours but more expansive — a 360-degree panorama taking in Pen-y-ghent to the north, Ingleborough to the west, and the Forest of Bowland to the south-west.
The return
Descend south via Water Houses and the Pennine Way back to Malham Tarn and the village.
Boggy ground on the summit approaches after rain. Remote feel despite proximity to village.
Summits on this route
Safety on this route
- No signal? Text 999 — pre-register first: text register to 999
- Tell someone your route and expected return time before you head out
Common questions
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