Shap Fell Bothy (opens in new tab)
about 5.3 km from the start, in a straight line
At 5.29 km it sits beyond our usual 4.83 km / 3-mile line, and it is here anyway because it is the only property near this start whose own site says anything at all — all three closer candidates publish nothing. Rather than tell a family nothing, we carry it with its limits stated: it is not a bed-and-breakfast, it is indoor camping. Sole use of a two-floor building for up to 8, but "In the upstairs there are 4 futon mattresses for the first 4 people to sleep on" and anyone beyond 4 brings their own mat; "Bedding for up to 4 people is available for hire or you can bring your own"; no running water, water is delivered in canisters; the toilet is a Portaloo in the side yard; there is no email and no form, only Airbnb. It suits a self-sufficient walking party wanting the whole place and a wood-burner after Bannisdale; it does not suit a family expecting a room, a meal and a radiator to dry kit on. One thing to check before booking: the footer reads 2026 but the page still carries live lockdown text - "Due to Covid restrictions WE DO NOT PROVIDE KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, CROCKERY AND CUTLERY or BEDDING." - so what is actually supplied should be confirmed on the Airbnb listing before booking.
The building is a converted telephone repeater station standing at 1,390 ft on Shap Fell by the A6, off-grid on wind and solar, with roof windows put in for star-gazing; a snicket gate at the back opens straight onto public access common land.
- Dogs “Dogs are welcome.”
- Family rooms “During your stay you will have exclusive use of the Bothy.”
- Parking “Two very large lay-bys for ample parking within 70 yards.”