Great Mell Fell is a rounded, crag-free hill standing on its own above marshy farmland, owned by the National Trust. On top is a low mound, probably a Bronze Age burial, now with a small cairn on it. From the 1890s into the 1950s a rifle range on the north-west side kept walkers off, and spent .303 cartridges still turn up in the old butts. The name comes from a Brittonic word for 'bare', with 'fell' added later by English speakers.
New to the Wainwrights?Read our guide: What Are The Wainwrights?Cairn
Reddish Devonian conglomerate under grass and heather, with woodland and wind-bent larches lower down.
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Summit Weather
Our Route
Also on this route: Little Mell Fell, Gowbarrow Fell
Safety: Routes are a guide only. Carry a map and compass and know how to use them, check the weather before you go, and turn back if in doubt. You use this route at your own risk.
