The Central Fells

Armboth Fell

479m | 1572ft

Armboth Fell is a fell in the English Lake District, regarded by Alfred Wainwright as the centre of Lakeland. It is named for the former settlement of Armboth. The fell is a domed plateau, three-quarters of a mile across, jutting out to the east of the Derwentwater-Thirlmere watershed, in the Borough of Allerdale.

Popular Routes

Armboth Fell via Watendlath
Distance: 8.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
This route starts from the picturesque hamlet of Watendlath, following a path that ascends through woodland and open fellside to reach the summit of Armboth Fell. The path is well-trodden but can be boggy in places.
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Armboth Fell from Thirlmere
Distance: 7km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting from the shores of Thirlmere, this route takes you through forested areas before emerging onto the open fell. The path is less defined in places, requiring good navigation skills, especially in poor visibility.
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Armboth Fell Circular via High Tove
Distance: 10km
Difficulty: Challenging
A circular walk that includes both Armboth Fell and High Tove. This route offers a more challenging experience with some steep ascents and descents, as well as boggy sections. It provides stunning views over the surrounding fells and lakes.
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Parking

Watendlath Car Park
A small National Trust car park located in the hamlet of Watendlath. It provides easy access to the start of the Watendlath route.
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Thirlmere Car Park
Located near the shores of Thirlmere, this car park is a convenient starting point for the Thirlmere route.
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Public Transport

Buses run to Keswick and Ambleside, from where you can take a taxi or drive to the starting points of the walks.
Limited public transport options directly to the start points.

Closest Towns

Keswick
A bustling market town located to the north of Armboth Fell, offering a range of accommodation, shops, and eateries.
Ambleside
Situated to the south, Ambleside is a popular base for exploring the Lake District, with plenty of amenities and attractions.

Pubs & Restaurants

The Bridge Inn
A traditional pub offering hearty meals and a selection of local ales, perfect for post-walk refreshments.
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The Dog & Gun
A popular pub in Keswick known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious goulash.
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Good to know

The weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, so be prepared for rain and wind even in summer.
Some sections of the routes can be boggy, especially after heavy rain. Waterproof boots are recommended.
Armboth Fell is less frequented than other fells, offering a quieter walking experience.
A map and compass are essential for navigation, as paths can be indistinct in places.
Look out for red deer and a variety of bird species in the area.