Great Bell

Hill, Mountain in Westmorland Eden

England

Great Bell

Summit area of Tailbridge Hill, with summit cairn A few minor limestone rocks protrude from the grassy covering of Tailbridge Hill and there are exposures of limestone pavement elsewhere on it. The distant hills are those of the west side of the Mallerstang valley. — Summit area of Tailbridge Hill, with summit cairn Credit: Trevor Littlewood

Great Bell is a prominent hill located in the county of Westmorland, in the northwestern region of England. It is part of the Lake District National Park, which is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and picturesque surroundings. Great Bell stands at an elevation of 2,284 feet (696 meters) and is classified as a hill rather than a mountain.

The hill is situated in close proximity to the village of Mardale, offering visitors easy access to its summit. Great Bell boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, lakes, and peaks, including Haweswater Reservoir and the nearby High Street ridge. On a clear day, one can even catch glimpses of the Scottish mountains to the north.

Great Bell is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, attracting both novice and experienced climbers. There are various routes to the summit, ranging in difficulty, allowing visitors to choose a path that suits their level of fitness and expertise. The ascent is often described as moderate, with well-marked trails and paths leading to the top.

The hill's name, Great Bell, is believed to have originated from the Old English word "belle," meaning "hill" or "summit." It is a prominent feature in the local landscape and adds to the charm and allure of the Lake District region. Whether one is seeking a challenging hike or simply wishes to enjoy the stunning natural beauty, Great Bell offers a memorable experience for all who visit.

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Great Bell Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.43672/-2.3313555 or Grid Reference NY7804. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Summit area of Tailbridge Hill, with summit cairn

A few minor limestone rocks protrude from the grassy covering of Tailbridge Hill and there are exposures of limestone pavement elsewhere on it. The distant hills are those of the west side of the Mallerstang valley.

Trevor Littlewood

From Tailbridge Hill

Eden Valley under the mist

David Brown

B6270

A snowed up pass between upper Swaledale and Kirkby Stephen past Nine Standards Rigg.

Richard Webb

Nateby Common

David Purchase

Tailbridge Hill

Looking up it from the west

John Illingworth

The B6270 running SE up over the edge of Lamp Moss

On the right is High Pike Hill with Lamp Moss leading left to Tail Bridge Hill. The valley is Kitchen Gill which runs into the river Eden South of Nateby.

Nick W

Not a standing stone or pillar but a nicely built cairn

The OS shows a "pile of stones" NY7903 : ...but there is a pillar or standing stone on the skyline that bears investigation

Ian Greig

The cairn is about 12 feet tall and even has a spiral staircase built around it.

"Pile of stones" indeed!

Ian Greig

A tidily built sheepfold

Not the one shown on the map - or not in that position

Ian Greig

Another neatly built cairn but not as big as the one to the south

Once again, ignored by the OS

Ian Greig

There is plenty of evidence of the old mineworkings

Ian Greig

Looking back at the mine workings and the cairn

Ian Greig

Cairn on Tailbridge Hill

A fine limestone cairn at a viewpoint

David Brown

Quarry and sheepfold from Fells End

David Brown

High Pike Hill

Viewed from the B6270.

Carron K

Looking down on old quarry workings, High Pike Hill

The view north westwards from the summit of High Pike Hill. Some 100m down are old quarry workings - presumably for sandstone flags. In the distance is Kirkby Stephen.

Gordon Hatton