Taming the Fells: Parliamentary Enclosure and the Landscape in Northern England

Abstract

Parliamentary enclosure is generally discussed in terms of the removal of open field arable and lowland commons. However, extensive areas of upland commons were also enclosed under parliamentary act in the uplands of northern England. This article examines the context and character of parliamentary enclosure in this region with a focus on Cumbria. It considers the amount and timing of enclosure, the distinctive aspects of the work of the commissioners in upland areas and the characteristic features of enclosure landscapes among the fells.