Fell Side Mine
Stream for Interesting Mineral & Rock Spotting
During the peak holiday season when the Lake District is brimming with tourists, it can be difficult to find a quiet space far from the crowds. However, if you are willing to travel away from the main roads, you will be rewarded with vast empty valleys and a feeling of peaceful isolation. Fell Side is one such place. This old abandoned mine is located in the Caldbeck Fells and set in a picturesque valley.
This walk follows the old mining track up to the mine and back. The Caldbeck Fells were once mined extensively and today minerals and crystals that have been washed down from the fells by the various streams can be found scattered along the route. Sadly, you need a permit to remove any minerals and crystals from the site, but you can encourage your children to spot any treasures along the way.
Quick Facts
Distance: 5 miles
Time: 3-4 hours (Assumes young children)
Terrain: Well maintained track for the most part. Some storm damage in places making uneven ground.
Suitable For: Older Children, Younger Children with Assistance, Babies and Toddlers in Carriers, All-Terrain Pushchairs
Parking: Limited parking available at Fell Side Farm. Grid Ref NY 304 373. Satnav Postcode CA7 8HA
Facilities: None. The nearby village of Caldbeck has a pub.
Parking at the Farm
Looking Back toward the Farm
The walk begins at Fell Side Farm. If you have a Satnav, use postcode CA7 8HA. Alternatively, from Bassenthwaite, follow signs for Uldale, then Branthwaite and Fell Side. From Caldbeck follow signs for Branthwaite and Fell Side. Fell Side is a tiny hamlet with a farm. There is a turning onto a track next to the farm. If you are coming from Bassenthwaite, the turning will be on your right past the farm buildings, if you are coming from Caldbeck the turning will be on your left before the farm buildings. Parking is available on the right hand side of this track just past a large farm gate.
The Start of the Walk
Looking up from the Farm towards the Gate
To start the walk continue along the track away from the farm. There is a large gate at the end that you can go through with signs warning you not to remove any minerals from the site. At the other side of the gate, there is an information board with details about the area, including a map.
Following the Track
A Fork in the Road
After going through the gate, turn right to follow the old mining track. Shortly after you will come to a fork in the road with a path leading off to the left up the fell. If you want more of a challenge, you can take this turning and follow it up the fell where it will eventually reach the Cumbria Way. Turn right onto the Cumbria Way and this will take you to the top of High Pike – a favourite of local resident and noted mountaineer, Chris Bonington. This route is not suitable for all-terrain pushchairs or younger children. To continue with the walk to Fell Side Mine, stay on the track.
The First Bridge
The First Bridge
The track leads into the valley, and then comes to a small bridge over a stream. The bridge is too narrow for an all terrain pushchair, but the stream across the path is not too deep during the summer and can be walked through with a good pair of walking boots.
The Second Bridge
The Second Bridge
A short distance after you have crossed the first bridge, there is a second bridge that is wide enough for an all-terrain pushchair, but there are steps at the other side and you may need to lift your pushchair down them. This bridge is a great spot for a game of 'pooh sticks'.
Damage in the Track
Storm Damage to the Track
After the second bridge, there is a section of the path that has undergone a significant amount of damage following the storms of December 2015. On the right hand side of the track there is a narrow path that can be walked with ease but all-terrain pushchairs may need to be carried over some sections.
Approaching the Mine
Stream Across the Path
As you continue on, the remaining mine building comes into view. The stream that runs along your left hand side often brings down minerals from the surrounding fells and children may enjoy trying to spot crystals and minerals amongst the rocks. Eventually the track ends at a stream crossing with the mine building on the other side. This stream can be passed with care during the warmer months, although if you have an all-terrain pushchair you may find it difficult. Alternatively, there are plenty of spots around this stream that are idea for a picnic, a paddle, and crystal hunting. Beyond the mine building, the path becomes impassable for all-terrain pushchairs.
The Mine Building and Beyond
Looking Back Down the Valley from Beyond the Mine Building
Go across the stream to get up to the mine building. This is the only building that is still standing, though other ruined structures are in the area. Just beyond the building there is a small path that leads up the screes with the stream flowing down to the right. The ground here is loose and falls can occur very easily. It is certainly not suitable for an all-terrain pushchair.
The Waterfalls – The End of the Walk

A Glimpse of the Waterfall
Follow the path across the screes and the waterfalls will eventually come into view. You can get a better view of the falls by climbing higher, but again, the ground is loose. It is not suitable for young children, and those using child carriers should proceed with caution. Your return is back the way you came. Please leave any crystals you find at the site in order to preserve the area for future generations.