Explore the Area
Spotlights of the week
This week’s featured location is Helvellyn. Helvellyn is the third highest mountain in the Lake District, standing at 950 Metres (3,117 ft). The only higher mountains are Scafell, and Scafell Pike. It is a relatively easier ascent than both of these and more accessible, and is therefore probably the most climbed and walked of all the fells in the Lake District.
It can be reached from the west and the east, but by far the most preferred and popular route is the ascent from the east. Starting at either Glenridding or Patterdale, the standard route is to climb to “hole in the wall”, and then walk along Striding Edge, the spectacular ridge walk (there is a lower path which is recommended in bad conditions). Having successfully negotiated this it is a quick scramble to the summit, which is surprisingly flat, but on a good day offers truly spectacular views across towards the North Sea in the west, and back across the Ullswater and the Lakes in the East. Then it’s a descent down Swirral edge, to Red Tarn, and either down to Glenridding or Patterdale.
On a beautiful clear summers day it is an uplifting walk that can be undertaken with care by most reasonably fit individuals. However the weather can turn suddenly, and in poor conditions Striding Edge especially can be treacherous and potentially lethal. One rule of thumb often used is if you can see the summit of Helvellyn itself from Hole in the Wall then give it a go, if not then think twice! Always check the weather and mountain reports first provided by the lake district national park authority
Click here for more information on Helvellyn, and walks and photos of Helvellyn.
There are many great places to stay in the Helvellyn area, specifically in Glenridding and Patterdale. We have plenty of suggestions, so if you’re looking for a cottage in Glenridding, or maybe a B&B in Patterdale then just follow the links!
Our recommendation for the week Helvellyn Cottage, ideal self-
Helvellyn self-
Need equipment for your walk on Helvellyn? For all your needs, from walking gear to maps, we recommend shopping online at the Helvellyn Walking Gear Shop
We are always looking to improve the information we have on Helvellyn in the Lake District. If you would like to contribute information or photos on Helvellyn in Cumbria, or you would like to advertise your Helvellyn cottage or Helvellyn B&B, please contact us.