Yarlside facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Yarlside |
|
---|---|
![]() The summit cairn of Yarlside
|
|
Highest point | |
Elevation | 2,096 ft (639 m) |
Parent peak | The Calf |
Listing | Marilyn, Hewitt |
Geography | |
Location | Cumbria, England |
Parent range | Howgill Fells |
OS grid | SD685985 |
Topo map | OS Landranger 098 |
Yarlside is a cool hill located in the beautiful Howgill Fells, a group of hills in Cumbria, England. It stands tall at about 2,096 feet (639 meters) above sea level. This makes it one of the higher points in the area.
It's important not to mix up this Yarlside with another place. There's an area also called Yarlside near Barrow-in-Furness. That place is about 33 miles (53 km) to the west. It used to have an old tramway for iron mines. Our Yarlside is a natural hill, not a mining area.
Contents
Exploring Yarlside and the Howgill Fells
Yarlside is a popular spot for people who love to hike and explore. It's known for its amazing views of the surrounding countryside. The Howgill Fells, where Yarlside is found, are famous for their smooth, grassy slopes. These hills look very different from the rocky mountains you might see elsewhere.
What Makes Yarlside Special?
Yarlside is more than just a hill; it's listed as a "Marilyn" and a "Hewitt." These are special categories for hills in the United Kingdom.
Marilyns and Hewitts Explained
- A Marilyn is a hill that rises at least 492 feet (150 meters) above the land around it. This means it stands out clearly from other hills nearby.
- A Hewitt is a hill in England, Wales, or Ireland that is at least 2,000 feet (610 meters) high. It also needs to have a drop of at least 98 feet (30 meters) on all sides. Yarlside fits both of these descriptions.
Getting to the Top
Reaching the top of Yarlside is a rewarding adventure. Hikers often start their journey from nearby villages. The paths can be steep in places, but the views from the summit are worth the effort. At the very top, you'll find a small pile of stones called a cairn. This cairn marks the highest point of the hill.
What You Might See
From the summit of Yarlside, you can see far across Cumbria. On a clear day, you might spot other famous hills like The Calf, which is Yarlside's parent peak. You can also enjoy the peaceful, rolling landscape of the Howgill Fells. It's a great place to take photos and enjoy nature.
Nature and Wildlife Around Yarlside
The Howgill Fells, including Yarlside, are home to various plants and animals. The grassy slopes are perfect for sheep and other grazing animals. You might also spot different kinds of birds flying overhead.
Plants of the Fells
The hills are covered in tough grasses and heather. These plants are well-suited to the windy and sometimes wet weather. In spring and summer, the hillsides can be dotted with wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the green landscape.
Animals You Might Spot
While hiking, keep an eye out for local wildlife. You might see birds like curlews or lapwings. These birds often nest in the open moorland. Sometimes, you might even spot a wild pony or deer in the quieter areas. The fells are a natural habitat for many creatures.
Yarlside's Place in History
The Howgill Fells have been around for millions of years. They were shaped by ancient glaciers during the Ice Ages. These glaciers carved out the valleys and smoothed the hills, giving them their unique rounded shape.
Local Area History
The area around Yarlside has a long history of farming and small communities. People have lived and worked in these valleys for centuries. The peaceful landscape you see today has been shaped by both nature and human activity over time.