Hart Side
Need some space? Then let Steve Goodier lead you to a remote Wainwright summit amidst wilderness country where you will see few other walkers.
If you like hidden remote summits where other walkers are few and far between, then Hart Side will make a perfect day out in Lakeland’s Eastern Fells for you. It’s one of several tops that form part of a long ridge, descending easterly from Stybarrow Dodd to reach valley level at Dockray.
A climb to its pleasant summit takes you over Common Fell and Swineside Knott on the Brown Hills ridge as well as Hart Side’s subsidiary top, Birkett Fell, which was named after the highly respected Lord Norman Birkett of Ulverston in 1963. The area you will have walked over is known collectively as Watermillock Common and as it is all Open Access land your right of way is assured. Standing on the grassy, bouldery summit of Hart Side you feel (and are) miles from anywhere.
Neighbouring Green Side to the south is higher and is worth a detour to if you are feeling very energetic. However, your return route – taking in the remote farm at Dowthwaitehead – makes a wonderful outing without any additions. Choose a clear day of sunny weather and this lovely walk will linger long in your memory.