description Fountains Fell Overview
Fountains Fell is an upland mountain in the Yorkshire Dales of northern England, rising to 668 metres above sea level. It lies near the Pennine Way, which crosses its open moorland terrain between Malham and the Ribblehead area. The fell takes its name from Fountains Abbey, whose Cistercian community historically owned and used land in this part of the Dales, including for sheep grazing.
help Fountains Fell FAQ
How high is Fountains Fell in the Yorkshire Dales?
Fountains Fell rises to 668 metres (about 2,192 feet) above sea level, making it one of the higher fells in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Its summit plateau is broad and moorland-covered rather than craggy.
Why is Fountains Fell named after Fountains Abbey?
The fell belonged to Fountains Abbey, the great Cisterian monastery in nearby Nidderdale and the Vale of York, whose monks used the high pastures for grazing sheep in the medieval period. The abbey's wool trade made these upland grazing lands economically valuable.
Does the Pennine Way go over Fountains Fell?
Yes, the Pennine Way, Britain's first National Trail, crosses the fell's open moorland between Malham and the Ribblehead area. Most walkers approach it from Malham, often combining it with the famous limestone scenery of Malham Cove and Malham Tarn.
What is walking Fountains Fell like compared to nearby Yorkshire Three Peaks?
It is a quieter, gentler walk than the nearby Yorkshire Three Peaks of Ingleborough, Pen-y-ghent, and Whernside, crossing open blanket bog and moorland rather than dramatic limestone pavements. Navigation can be tricky in poor weather because the summit is a broad, featureless plateau, so map and compass skills are advisable.
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