fellside

Fellside refers to the land adjacent to or on the lower slopes of a fell. A fell is a type of upland area or mountain, commonly found in northern England, particularly in Cumbria. These landscapes are often characterized by open, grassy or heather-covered hills, and can range in size and elevation.

The term "fellside" specifically denotes the transitional area between the flatter, more inhabited valleys or plains and the higher, often wilder, fell terrain. It can describe areas that are still cultivated or grazed, or it can refer to the natural transition zone where vegetation changes and the incline of the land increases. Homes and settlements are often located on fellside locations to take advantage of the views, access to resources, or protection offered by the hills.

Historically, fellside areas were important for sheep farming and other agricultural practices. The term is deeply embedded in the cultural and geographical identity of regions like the Lake District, where the iconic landscapes are defined by their fells and the human settlements nestled on their slopes. The term implies a close relationship with the natural environment and the often rugged topography of the region.