The 10 Commandments of the Fells – A Journey Across Bowscale Fell, Bannerdale Crags, Mungrisdale Common, and Souther Fell
/In my latest video on Boot Routes, I took on a stunning circular hike in the Lake District, covering four classic Wainwrights: Bowscale Fell, Bannerdale Crags, Mungrisdale Common, and Souther Fell. But this wasn’t just any hill walk—I tied it in with a lighthearted yet important set of '10 Commandments of Mountain Walking,' offering guidance, reminders, and a bit of humour for fellow walkers. Here’s a breakdown of the adventure and the wisdom shared along the way.
The Route
Starting from the village of Mungrisdale, the route took me up the steady climb to Bowscale Fell (702m), offering fantastic views towards Blencathra. From there, I followed the ridge to Bannerdale Crags (683m), a rugged and rocky summit with dramatic drops into the Bannerdale valley.
The next destination was Mungrisdale Common (633m)—often the butt of many Wainwright jokes. True to its reputation, this vast expanse of boggy, featureless land felt more like a rite of passage than an exciting peak, but it’s still a must-visit for Wainwright baggers. Finally, I made my way across to Souther Fell (522m), famed for its ‘ghost army’ legend, before descending back to Mungrisdale to complete the loop.
The 10 Commandments of the Fells
Throughout the hike, I shared my '10 Commandments'—a mix of serious advice and light-hearted observations that all hillwalkers can appreciate. Here’s a summary:
Thou shalt check the weather – Because nothing ruins a walk faster than being caught in an unexpected storm. The Lake District’s weather can be unpredictable, so always check the forecast before heading out. Wind speeds, temperature drops, and heavy rain can turn an enjoyable walk into a dangerous situation if you’re unprepared.
Thou shalt plan and prepare – A well-planned route can mean the difference between a fantastic day on the fells and an unnecessary struggle. Understanding the terrain, knowing escape routes, and having a backup plan can save you from getting into trouble when things don’t go as expected.
Thou shalt have the right kit – Wearing the right clothing and carrying essential gear ensures safety and comfort. Waterproofs, layers, a head torch, and a first aid kit are just a few of the items that should always be in your pack. Skimping on kit might seem like a good idea until you’re cold, wet, and miles from civilization.
Thou shalt know thy navigation – And actually know how to use it! GPS devices are great, but a paper map and compass never run out of battery. Taking the time to practice navigation skills could one day be the thing that keeps you safe on the hills.
Thou shalt know thy limits – There’s no shame in turning back if conditions worsen or if you’re feeling unwell. Pushing yourself beyond your capabilities can lead to exhaustion or injury, which puts not only you at risk but also those who may have to come to your aid.
Thou shalt look after your fellow walkers – Whether it’s offering advice, sharing supplies, or simply giving a word of encouragement, looking out for others is part of the hillwalking ethos. A small act of kindness on the fells can make a big difference to someone’s day.
Thou shalt respect the wildlife – The fells are home to a variety of creatures, from red deer to rare birds of prey. Disturbing their habitat or leaving food scraps behind can have negative impacts. Keep dogs under control and observe wildlife from a respectful distance.
Thou shalt leave nothing but footprints – Litter, even small bits like fruit peel, doesn’t belong in the hills. Pack out everything you bring in, including biodegradable waste, and stick to paths where possible to prevent unnecessary erosion.
Thou shalt enjoy the journey – It’s not just about reaching the summit but embracing the whole experience. Take time to appreciate the surroundings, the changing light, and the unique character of each fell. Rushing through a walk just to bag another peak misses the point of why we do this in the first place.
Thou shalt honour traditions – Whether it’s touching the cairn at the summit, sharing a snack with a walking partner, or simply respecting the history of the landscape, traditions add to the richness of fellwalking. The mountains have been walked for centuries—keeping those customs alive connects us to the past and to the many walkers who came before us.
These commandments were born out of countless days spent in the hills, learning lessons the hard way. Whether it's getting caught in an unexpected downpour or underestimating just how boggy a fell can be, they serve as reminders of both the challenges and joys of hillwalking.
A Memorable Day on the Fells
This hike was a perfect mix of stunning scenery, classic Lakeland fells, and the quirks that make each summit unique. Whether it was the sharp edges of Bannerdale Crags, the wild and empty expanse of Mungrisdale Common, or the eerie history of Souther Fell, every part of the route had something to offer.
The '10 Commandments' were my way of making the day both informative and entertaining, reminding us all of the simple joys (and occasional struggles) of hillwalking. If you haven’t checked out the video yet, head over to Boot Routes on YouTube and let me know which of the commandments you live by—or if there’s one I should have included!
