Red Deer Hikes

Red deer spotting hike in the Martindale valley

Head deep into Martindale, for a half-day valley hike or full-day fell-top adventure to seek out the oldest red deer herd in England (over 300 years' old).

We offer these special days out with a trip on an Ullswater Steamer to start or finish your day on the fells.

All year round, our local Mountain Leaders are ready to lead you safely into the hills to find the pockets of fellside where our local red deer like to graze and also hide from the prevailing weather. From the valley floor to the fell tops and across the screes at the head of the valley, you can choose your route from an easy amble to a full technical fell day. Your guide will take you on a journey to the red deer to suit you and your friends.

The deer are always around these fells, and outside of the rutting season we can find them with binoculars.

October, though, brings an extraordinary phenomenon when your guide helps you to spot and hear the beautiful red deer stags and hinds congregating from far and wide for the rut.

The autumn colours will be upon us as the fellsides turn golden.

Autumn can also be prone to wet days, but the Hiking Highs team embrace this and will give you confidence to walk over any slippery or technical terrain. Remember, the fell is illuminated with colour after the rain falls!

Follow in the footsteps taken by Sandi Toksvig during the Ullswater episode of her Extraordinary Escapes tv series, venturing deep into the enchanting Martindale Valley, where the Nab commands attention while looming majestically over the valley. Our half-day option undulates across the valley floor with an optional ascent of Hallin Fell for terrific views.

Full day: £150 first walker + £30 each additional walker
Half day: £90 first walker + £20 each additional walker
+ option of steamer trip