Our vision
We believe in the value of the fells to all; a fells where nature thrives and where the local community and visitors alike can enjoy the spectacular beauty of the fells. A fells which supports rich nature, landscape and diverse groups of people exploring; and a fells which is resilient in the face of climate change.
Our mission
To protect our spectacular Lake District fells from erosion by repairing and maintaining upland paths and their immediate surroundings, so as to enhance nature and the experience of those in the fells.
The need
The Lake District National Park has never been more popular. Residents, along with 18 million visitors a year, enjoy spending time in the fells of this World Heritage Site. The mountainous landscape, with its combination of fragile peaty and thin soils, plus steep gradients, is particularly vulnerable to the volume of people in the fells. In addition, the increased severity and frequency of rainfall events, due to climate change, has further accelerated rates of upland erosion.
Feet, hoofs and mountain bikes wear away vegetation over time, leaving exposed soils which release carbon into the air and with reduced water retention capacity. Heavy rain then washes away the soils, which end up in lakes, where it can be harmful to aquatic life. Habitat alongside paths is damaged, with knock-on impacts on fell plants, insects and animals. Erosion scars cause physical damage to the landscape and routes become unappealing to use. With the twin crises in climate and nature, and the enduring appeal of the fells for recreation, the work of Fix the Fells has never been needed more.
What we do
We cannot manage the Lake District landscape without attention to the impacts of upland erosion on water and carbon. Our rangers are highly skilled, upland path professionals. They use a mix of traditional and innovative techniques to halt and repair upland erosion, manage water, secure carbon, protect habitats around paths and to create a sustainable line for path users. Our team of volunteers walk our routes year-round, keeping them clear and reporting back issues. Our work supports flood mitigation, improved water quality and carbon sequestration, for flourishing fells and enhanced public enjoyment and well-being.
Our objectives 2025-2030



