Yarlside

Yarlside, viewed from the west, with Wild Boar Fell in the background

Location (summit): SD 686 985

Getting there: There’s no easy way to get to the summit, but a number of different options. Approach from the Bowerdale 6km to the north, via Bowerdale Beck, for the easiest (still tough!) ascent to the summit. Also possible from the Cross Keys Inn to the SE, or very steep climbs via Kensgriff, or up the western flank if approaching from Sedbergh and/or Cautley Spout. Paid parking in Sedbergh.

Height (at cairn on summit): 639m

Prominence: 208m

Map: OL19 (Howgill Fells and Upper Eden Valley)

An imposing and pathless peak situated in the eastern Howgill Fells, the challenge of the reaching the summit of Yarlside is far surpassed by the sense of achievement at reaching the top.

Sitting at a height of 639m at its summit, Yarlside isn’t the tallest peak in the Howgills, but still sits comfortably inside the Dales 30. Like many of the Howgill Fells, Yarlside is charachterised by steep drops, sculpted sides, and a covering of grass.

From the steep slope of Yarlside - looking at Cautley Spout in the distance

It is far from the beaten track, with no marked paths at all. Like much of the Howgills, the hill is devoid of historical sites - at least discovered ones - but the hill’s beauty lies in its shape and the views from the top.

Unless you’re approaching from the slightly easier northern slope from Bowerdale Beck (which is not easy to reach without a long trek), expect a tough grassy scramble up the steep sides.

Yarlside is one of the final peaks on the Howgill Circular walk - for this you’ll approach from Kensgriff, descending along a track into the aptly named ‘Saddle’, before a strenuous climb up Yarlside’s grassy slope.

The imposing face of Yarlside, viewed from Kensgriff

Although the climb and remoteness isn’t for everyone, you’ll be rewarded with fine views of the Howgills, Wild Boar Fell, and even the Yorkshire Three Peaks in the background.

The view from the summit, looing towards the Yorkshire Three Peaks

The steep, sculpted Howgill Fells provide stunning views