Dunmallard Hill Woodland
Dunmallard Hill Woodland
Highlight • Forest
Hiking
5.0
(16)
Dunmallard Hill Woodland is an ancient forest covering Dunmallard Hill, a prominent feature in the English Lake District. Located near the charming village of Pooley Bridge in Cumbria, this woodland sits at the far north-eastern tip of Ullswater and reaches an elevation of 236 meters (775 feet). It is particularly notable for the remains of an Iron Age hillfort at its summit, adding a rich historical layer to its natural beauty.
What draws many visitors to Dunmallard Hill Woodland is…
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December 6, 2020
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Dunmallard Hill Woodland
4.3
(4)
50
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
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325
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(47)
301
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9.66km
02:39
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 300 m
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The ascent from Pooley Bridge to the summit of Dunmallard Hill is often described as a simple after-dinner stroll by Alfred Wainwright, suggesting a relatively short and easy walk. Most visitors can complete a round trip through the woodland and to the hillfort in approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how much time they spend exploring the summit.
Yes, Dunmallard Hill Woodland is highly recommended for families. The paths are generally accessible, and the ascent is considered easy, making it suitable for various fitness levels, including young children. It offers a peaceful woodland setting for an easy adventure, and the historical Iron Age hillfort at the top can be an engaging point of interest for kids.
Dunmallard Hill Woodland is generally dog-friendly, offering a pleasant environment for walks with your canine companion. However, as with any natural area, it's always best to keep dogs under control, especially given the presence of wildlife and other visitors. Please ensure you clean up after your dog to help maintain the woodland's natural beauty.
The most common starting point for walks in Dunmallard Hill Woodland is from the nearby village of Pooley Bridge. Parking is available in and around Pooley Bridge, though it can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Pooley Bridge is also served by local bus routes, connecting it to other areas of the Lake District, making public transport a viable option.
The trails through Dunmallard Hill Woodland are considered easy and accessible. The ascent to the 775-foot (236 m) summit is gentle, making it suitable for beginner walkers and those looking for a leisurely hike. The terrain is primarily woodland paths, so while not strenuous, appropriate footwear is advisable, especially after rain.
While the dense tree cover limits dramatic panoramic views from the very top of Dunmallard Hill, you can catch partial glimpses of Ullswater through the trees, particularly during winter months when foliage is sparser. The woodland itself is an ancient forest, and along the nearby River Eamont, you might spot local wildlife such as herons and deer.
Dunmallard Hill is historically significant due to the well-preserved remains of an Iron Age hillfort at its summit. This multivallate structure, dating from around 500 BCE to 43 CE, is a scheduled monument. It suggests a strategic placement to guard access to Ullswater and surrounding passes, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient history.
Yes, the charming village of Pooley Bridge, located at the foot of Dunmallard Hill, offers a variety of amenities. You'll find several cafes, traditional pubs, and various accommodation options, including guesthouses and hotels, making it a convenient base for exploring the woodland and the wider Ullswater area.
Given the woodland terrain, appropriate footwear with good grip is recommended, especially as paths can be muddy after rain. Layers of clothing are always a good idea in the Lake District, allowing you to adapt to changing weather conditions. Even though it's a sheltered walk, a waterproof jacket is advisable.
Yes, Dunmallard Hill is indeed featured in Alfred Wainwright's works. It is the subject of a chapter in his book The Outlying Fells of Lakeland, where he refers to it as "Dunmallet" and describes the ascent from Pooley Bridge as a "simple after-dinner stroll."
Yes, Dunmallard Hill Woodland is often incorporated into circular walking routes starting and ending in Pooley Bridge. These routes typically combine the ascent of Dunmallard Hill with sections along the River Eamont or lakeside paths, offering a varied and enjoyable experience. Many such routes can be found on hiking platforms.