The Ultimate Lake District Mountain & Fell Guide

The Lake District National Park is a popular destination for those seeking to test themselves on the region’s range of mountains and fells. Walks in the Lake District were made popular by Alfred Wainwright’s famous walking books, which were recently televised in the BBC’s recent “Wainwright Walks”. In this post, we highlight five popular mountains and fells you’ll want to try during your next visit to the Lakes.

Scafell Pike

Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England and one of the most popular peaks in the Lake District. It is frequently visited by people undertaking the Three Peaks Challenge, where people attempt the tallest peak in Scotland, Wales and England. The summit is accessible via Wasdale, Borrowdale, Eskdale and Langdale.  The route from Wasdale is considered the easiest, however, caution should still be exercised, especially in poor conditions.

Distance: 5.8-miles (approx)
Ascent: 899m
Difficulty:Medium-hard
More information: www.mudandroutes.com

Striding Edge – Helvellyn

Helvellyn is the largest mountain of the Helvellyn range. Located just north of Ambleside, the peak can be accessed by a variety of routes. Striding Edge offers spectacular views and is the perfect scramble for those wanting to take their mountain climbing to a new level. However, caution should be exercised in poor conditions. The route starts from Glenridding, near Ullswater, and heads West towards Helvellyn.

Distance: 8.7-miles (approx)
Ascent: 900m
Difficulty: hard
More information: www.walklakes.co.uk

Haystacks

Although it’s not the tallest peak in the area, Haystacks was one of Alfred Wainwright’s favourite mountains in the Lakes and, upon his request, his ashes were scattered at Innominate Tarn, near its summit. This peak is a short climb from the south-eastern end of Buttermere Valley, although, if you wish to make the walk a bit longer, we recommend the route below.

Distance: 8-miles (approx)
Ascent: 600m
Difficulty:Medium-hard
More information: www.golakes.co.uk

Pillar

Pillar is an impressive sight for its rugged shape and it is often accessed from Wasdale Head. The route will take you via the impressive Riston’s Force Waterfalls and you’ll have impressive views of Loweswater, Ennerdale Water and the surrounding area. Nearby is Pillar Rock, which is supposedly the birthplace of rock climbing in the Lake District.

Distance: 8-miles (approx)
Ascent: 879m
Difficulty:Medium-hard
More information: www.gps-routes.co.uk

Great Crag and Grange Fell

If you want to walk the Lake District fells, then this walk is for you as it combines two Wainwright Fells. The route starts in Rosthwaite and has a steep ascent that takes you through a woodland before reaching the peaceful Dock Tarn.

Distance: 5.2-miles (approx)
Ascent: 477m
Difficulty: Medium
More information: www.walkingenglishman.com

If you’re looking for the ultimate accommodation in the Lakes, take a look at our range of cottages here.

Sources: Phil Ross, Leigh Garner and Mark J