Sale and Ling Fell Circular: Two Wainwrights with Stunning Views

Sale and Ling Fell Circular on AllTrails

 

Distance: 8.2km

ETA: 3.5 hours

Elevation: 452m

 

If you’re looking for a short but rewarding fell walk, the Sale and Ling Fell Circular is a great choice. This 8.2-kilometre loop near Cockermouth takes in two Wainwrights, offering a perfect mix of steep climbs, open fellside, and stunning views. It’s a great route for those who want a proper Lake District experience without committing to a full-day hike. 

 

Parking is very limited for this walk, with just a few roadside spaces near the start. If you’re planning to do this route, it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot, though I have to say this was a very quiet route and we only saw a few people.

The Route: A Steep Start but Worth It

The route starts off steep (don’t they all?), so expect to feel the burn early on! But once you reach the top of Sale Fell, the hard work pays off with incredible views over Bassenthwaite Lake and the surrounding fells. From here, the walk becomes much gentler as you make your way towards Ling Fell, another Wainwright with equally stunning panoramas.

 

There are boggy sections along the way, particularly after wet weather, so good waterproof footwear is a must.

 

Perfect for Dogs

If you’ve got a dog with good recall, they’ll absolutely love this one! There’s loads of open space to run around, and it’s generally a great off-lead walk apart from a few sections of road. We didn’t spot much livestock, but as always, it’s good to be mindful and have a lead handy just in case.

 

Final Thoughts

The Sale and Ling Fell Circular is a fantastic moderate walk, offering big rewards for relatively little effort. With two Wainwrights, plenty of picnic spots, expansive views, and plenty of open space, it’s a brilliant choice for both hikers and dogs alike. Just be prepared for a steep start, limited parking, and boggy patches - but it’s absolutely worth it!

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