Martindale Deer and Beda Fell Walk

5.8 miles (9.4 km)

This circular walk takes you through beautiful Martindale Deer to the viewpoint at Beda Fell. The walk unfolds in the wild heart of the Lake District, taking you through the unspoilt Martindale valley renowned for its roaming herds of red deer and its rugged, atmospheric landscapes.
The trail meanders along open moorland fringed with patches of ancient woodland and low, rolling hills, offering a sense of remoteness and peace that is characteristic of this part of Cumbria. As you progress, the path leads you toward the modest summit of Beda Fell, where expansive views reveal the patchwork of fells and valleys stretching into the distance, and the valley floor below is dotted with traditional dry stone walls and historic farmsteads that hint at centuries of rural life.
On the ground, the natural tapestry is equally compelling. The open moorland is carpeted with hardy grasses, wild heather, and bilberry, which burst into a vivid display of purple and gold during the summer and soften to earthy tones in autumn. In the scattered woodland areas, native trees such as oak, birch, and rowan stand guard, providing shelter for a variety of bird species including skylarks, meadow pipits, and occasionally a soaring buzzard. Most striking of all are the red deer that roam freely across the valley, their graceful movements and imposing presence a reminder of the enduring wildness of the area. Their frequent sightings lend the walk its name and add a dynamic element to the serene landscape. You can continue your walking in the area along the nearby Ullswater Lake on the Ullswater Way and the Howtown to Glenridding Walk.