Walks near our cottages in the Western Lake District. The Pepperpot on Stainton Fell.

Every time I drive on the A595 in the direction of Broughton, past Muncaster Castle, down the hill and over the bridge, I always look up at the Pepperpot and think I want to walk to that!

After some research online and in my OS map (OL6) I discovered the tower atop Stainton Fell. No one knows if the tower served a specific purpose or was built as a foley? What we do know is that it stands a commanding view high up on the fell with views across the estuary to the Irish Sea.

The walk was around 2 hours in total so would be great to start off your break in the Lake District or if looking for something not too strenuous!

Parking is limited but we were able to find a space on the A595, as the road bends, in the lay-by just by the finger post where the walk starts. There’s enough room for about 3 cars here.

Once over the sty we headed up the hill towards the wooded area. The path isn’t too clear here but once you get within the trees the path is visible.

Walking through woodland we enjoyed the bluebells and bird song and soon came to a sty.

Once over the sty keep following the path up and at the brow of the hill veer slightly right. You’ll now be out of the woodland and will have clear views towards Scafell and the Wasdale valley.

From here follow the fence until you find a safe place to cross it.

In front of you you’ll see a series of stone walls and the highest point of Stainton Fell just behind this. You may even see a glimpse of the Pepper Pot too! Head towards the stone wall tread carefully as the grass is very long with boggy areas!!! We found a gap in the wall, which we assumed were for sheep, so it was hilarious to see me crawling thought it!!!

Once though veer slightly right until you reach another stone wall with a series of step ups on both sides to help you get over.

Once over this second wall a series of faint paths head up. Follow one of these and you’ll reach the Pepper Pot before you know it!

The tower is a fantastic landmark with panoramic views. Look out the window opening for views to the sea and in the opposite direction to Wasdale and beyond. From the top we could even hear the tannoy from the bird of prey display down the valley at Muncaster Castle!

The views were fabulous so was nice to soak them up and just enjoy the surroundings. The Pepperpot itself is an interesting structure and appears to have had a fireplace inside?

After a little explore we headed back in the same direction and was back at the car within 2 hours of setting off so a great little walk. It’s always nice to have a target to walk to I think and this one didn’t disappoint with interest all the way up and the panoramic views at the summit!

Was a sense of achievement to get to the top and now when I look up at the tower when driving past, I can say I walked to that!

Points to Note

Terrain - moderate, some boggy areas so boots recommended. Having to climb over fences/wall would suggest moderate fitness required.

Time - 2 hours in total

Parking - lay-by on the A595

Nearest Toilets/Refreshments - Muncaster Castle around 5 mins drive or Ravenglass village.

OS Map - OL6 grid reference 94/14

Distance from our cottages - approx 10 min drive