Category: Walks and hikes in The Lake District

Sheffield Pike, Heron Pike and Glenridding Dodd Circular

November 12th, 2025

This 8.2km circular walk in the Lake District starts along the edge of Ullswater and ascends to a trio of peaks with some of the best views of the area. Sheffield Pike, Heron Pike, and Glenridding Dodd on the eastern side of the Lake District overlook the village of Glenridding and Ullswater. Glenridding Dodd rises steeply above the village, offering superb low-level views, while Heron Pike and Sheffield Pike offer a sweeping panorama across the Helvellyn range. Together, they make a rewarding circuit that combines dramatic scenery, varied terrain and a true sense of Lakeland character. Get the full guide below as well as downloadable walking routes from Ordnance Survey and Komoot.

😮Difficulty: moderate – good paths all the way, easy to follow route but some trickier, rocky descent from Heron Pike and steep down to Ullswater

⛰️Terrain: a mix of good paths, bog areas, a rocky descent, steep woodland path

↔️Distance: 8.2km/5miles

⌛Time taken: 4-5 hours

📈Ascent: 611m

🗺️Click here for the OS downloadable route.

🗺️Map needed is OS Explorer Map OL5

🗺️Click here for the Komoot downloadable route

📖You can find this route, and others, in the Outstanding Walks Lake District book

Car parking for Sheffield Pike, Heron Pike and Glenridding Dodd Circular

This route starts from Glencoyne Bay car park next to the edge of Ullswater.

This is managed by the National Trust so if you’re a member, just scan your card for free parking.

If not, parking costs £9 for the full day (correct November 2025)

Sheffield Pike, Heron Pike and Glenridding Dodd walk route

The walk starts from Glencoyne Bay and follows the footpath along the road before turning right down a tarmac road towards farm buildings. The footpath is signposted here infront of the buildings and you quickly rise to cross a boundary wall with incredible views of Ullswater behind you. This path rises steeply at the beginning before turning more gentle. It is rocky underfoot but nothing technical.

The path then continues away from Ullswater and up alongside the valley bottom. Glencoyne Beck flows below you to the right and the path eventually brings you out at Nick Head. In front, you’ll see some quarry workings but follow the path around to the left. This will lead you onto Sheffield Pike.

From here, the path takes you along the top of the two peaks of Sheffield Pike and Heron Pike. The path is obious and there are plenty of places to stop for lunch on a nice day and the views over Ullswater are sublime. This also happens to be an incredible sunrise spot…

On a wet day, expect this section to be very boggy. Be sure to stop at the viewpoint on Heron Pike!

Glenridding Dodd is your next point of call. Take care on the path down Heron Pike; it is scrambly and rocky and gets very slippery in wet weather. When you are at the base of Glenridding Dodd, it’s a short 5 minute walk to the summit.

Retrace your steps down Glenridding Dodd, go through the gate and follow the path downhill, through the woods to Ullswater once again. You can then follow the path alongside Ullswater to get back to your car at Glencoyne Bay.

Sheffield Pike, Heron Pike and Glenridding Dodd route on the Ordnance Survey App

Click here to download the route
Place Fell Hike with Ullswater Circular

November 5th, 2025

Place Fell is a rewarding Lake District hike with incredible views over Ullswater, the second largest lake, and the surrounding fells. This circular route is much quieter than others in the area with stunning panoramic views and plenty of solitude. Check out all the route details for this 13km circular hike and download the map below.

😮Difficulty: moderate – steady climb on good paths.

⛰️Terrain: a mix of rocky sections, grass and gravel.

↔️Distance: 12.9km/8miles

⌛Time taken: 4-5 hours without rest stops

📈Ascent: 730m

Start point: parking area in Patterdale

🗺️Click here for the OS downloadable route.

🗺️Map needed is OS Explorer Map OL5

🗺️Click here for the Komoot downloadable route

Place Fell & Ullswater Circular hike

Car parking for Place Fell

There is a large car park in Patterdale opposite the Patterdale Hotel. This will fill up quickly at the weekend so be sure to arrive early. At time of writing (June 2025), parking here is coins only and cost £5 for the day. This is private land and is the overflow for the hotel opposite.

Public transport option

The 508 public bus runs from Penrith Rail Station to Windermere and stops in Patterdale.

Place Fell and Ullswater Circular Route

Starting from Patterdale, a stony track near the school leads to Side Farm, where there may be a tea room open. Head right through the fam buildings and then head left up the hill at the end of the track when you pass through a gate. The path heads gradually uphill, rising steadily to give you stunning views of the southern part of Ullswater.

The path continues to Boredale Hause, a broad saddle between Place Fell and Angletarn Pikes. This was historically an important crossroads for local shepherds and traders and is now the place where you’ll see several paths veer off in different directions into the fells. Here, you’ll see Place Fell to your left, with the obvious path zig zagging up the side.

The path here is a bit of a slog but the views over to the Helvellyn range, down to Brother’s Water and Kirkstone Pass and over Ullswater are worth the effort. Towards the summit there is one rocky section to scramble over before the final path leads to the trig point on the summit.

Place Fell summit

The summit of Place Fell (657m) offers breathtaking 360° views. Place Fell gets its name from the old Norse plass, meaning “pasture” and despite its height, the summit area is surprisingly broad.

From the summit, follow the high path past the small tarn before High Dodd comes into view in front of you. It’s worth taking the short detour to the summit of High Dodd (501m), a distinctive grassy knoll that feels surprisingly remote. The view here over Ullswater is wonderful and this is a perfect place to stop for a quiet snack before continuing your hike.

Retrace your steps from High Dodd and begin descending the well marked path curving back down towards Ullswater. You’ll pass some old mine buildings and a few small waterfalls before reaching the path that heads around Ullswater.

This path forms part of the Ullswater Way, a popular 20-mile walking loop that encircles the entire lake. This stretch hugs the lakeshore through woods and past small beaches on a good path, although it is rocky and uneven in places. The combination of mountain and lake scenery is magical especially in the golden hours of late afternoon.

Follow the waymarked path back to Side Farm and onward to Patterdale once again where you can enjoy a well earned drink or bite to eat at the White Lion Inn or Patterdale Hotel.

How hard is Place Fell?

Place Fell is a moderate route with a steady incline over good paths. Almost all the elevation is at the beginning leading to the summit of Place Fell so once on the top, it’s all pretty much downhill, unless you detour to High Dodd. You still need a good level of fitness but this is a great route for beginner mountain hikers to try. The lakeside path along Ullswater is a gorgeous finish to the route.

Place Fell and Ullswater Circular route on the Ordnance Survey App
Belncathra via Sharp Edge and Hall’s Fell

October 11th, 2025

Blencathra is one of the Lake District’s most iconic fells and this circular route up Sharp Edge and down Hall’s Fell Ridge is one of the finest ways to experience it. Starting from Scales, this circular hike offers a thrilling ascent via the legendary Sharp Edge, a narrow ridge that provides just the right balance of challenge and excitement for experienced hillwalkers. The descent via Hall’s Fell Ridge delivers a scenic ridge walk directly from the summit cairn tapering down toward the valley below.. Check out all the route details and download the map below.

😮Difficulty: exposed scrambling requiring the use of hands, confident route finding, foot placement and a head for heights needed on both ridges. Not for beginners.

⛰️Terrain: good paths leading to the start of Sharp Edge. No obvious path over the ridge. Hall’s Fell Ridge is rocky with some path sections.

↔️Distance: 8km/5miles

⌛Time taken: 4-5 hours without rest stops

📈Ascent: 755m

Start point: free parking in multiple lay bys on the A66 near Scales

🗺️Click here for the OS downloadable route.

🗺️Map needed is OS Explorer Map OL5

🗺️Click here for the Komoot downloadable route

Blencathra Circular Walk via Sharp Edge and Hall’s Fell ridge

Car parking for Blencathra

There are a couple of large laybys on the A66 near Scales that are free to park in but you will have to arrive early to secure a parking space.

Public transport option

There is no public transport option to Scales to hike Blencathra. The closest bus stop is at Threkeld which would then involve a 35-40 minute walk to Scales to start the hike. Stagecoach buses X4 and X5 stop at Threkeld. Click here for more information on the bus times.

Blencathra route; Scales to Scales Tarn

The route starts alongside The White Horse pub, where there is a steep (and slippery) path up a grassy bank that leads you to the main footpath. Follow the path to the right as it winds up towards Blencathra and Scales Tarn. The path here gains height gradually with one steeper section. There are a few options for paths here so some navigation will go a long way to make sure you’re on the right one. However, the paths lead in generally the same direction; cutting off uphill sooner will bring you out above Scales Tarn and following it round will lead you close to Scales Beck bringing you right out at the tarn and the start of the climb up to Sharp Edge.

Scales Beck sits beneath Sharp Edge in a classic glacial corrie. This is a great place to take your first break, enjoy a snack and to look up at the challenge ahead; Sharp Edge.

Scrambling Sharp Edge

From Scales Tarn, Sharp Edge can look impossible. The way it curves dramatically makes it tricky to see an obvious route up when you’re below it but there is a well worn route to follow once you’re on the ridge. It’s not a path but if experienced, you can make out a route. It’s one of the most iconic Grade 1 scrambles in the Lake District but it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Every year, people are rescued or worse on Sharp Edge so this is only one to consider if you have some Grade 1 scrambling practise.

Stick to the crest of the ridge where possible and follow the worn path and natural holds. You’ll find yourself having to use your hands for balance in places and the crux of the ridge is a short but awkward slab near the end. The drop here is significant so take your time. Just before the end of the ridge there is a chimney section which involves an up-climb using your hands and looking for good foot placements. It’s only short and a few minutes later you’ll find yourself at the top of the ridge.

Sharp Edge to Blencathra Summit

Once you’ve topped out, you’re rewarded with a wide, grassy summit ridge with incredible 360-degree views. On a clear day, you can see Skiddaw and Helvellyn as well as the central fells and even across to the Pennines in the east. The path over to the summit of Blencathra is a wide path. The summit of Blencathra was originally marked with a concrete ring laid by Ordnance Survey in 1953. In 2018, this was stolen but a fundraising effort saw it replaced in 2019, luckily. Blencathra is unique in that its summit is almost on the very edge of the fell. If you stand at the summit ring, you’ll be looking straight down the next ridge: Hall’s Fell.

Descending Hall’s Fell down to the valley floor

From the summit ring, locate Hall’s Fell Ridge, which starts just a few steps away and runs directly north. There is a small stony path which will take you onto the top of the ridge and offers a spectacular descent. It’s still airy but much less exposed than Sharp Edge, with occasional hands-on sections and lots of jaw-dropping views down into the valley. This is another Grade 1 scrambling route with some exposed sections and bypass paths along the way. Take your time descending as the ridge is steep in places and can be slippery in poor weather.

Eventually, the ridge broadens and flattens as you reach gentler ground near Gategill Farm.

Walking back to Scales

Once you reach the valley bottom, follow the path left along the base of the fell. The track loops back toward Scales, passing fields, dry stone walls and wide-open views back up to the summit you’ve just conquered. The final stretch returns you to your starting point, ideally in time for a well-earned drink or meal at the White Horse Inn.

How hard is Sharp Edge and Hall’s Fell Ridge?

Sharp Edge is a narrow ridge and a Grade 1 scramble. It requires the use of hands for balance but doesn’t need ropes or any technical climbing gear. It’s exposed, especially in the middle section, and can feel serious in poor weather or for those with a fear of heights. The rock can become very slippery when wet or icy so it’s best tackled in dry, calm conditions by confident walkers with a head for heights. Hall’s Fell Ridge, while still steep and occasionally hands-on near the top, is less exposed and more straightforward making it a popular way to descend from the summit. Both routes should only be tackled if you have some Grade 1 scrambling experience, are confident with your current ability or if you are with someone who knows the route well and is experienced.

Grade 1 scramble tips and advice

A Grade 1 scramble in the UK is the entry level of scrambling — a middle ground between walking and climbing. You’ll need to use your hands for balance and upward movement, but no ropes or technical equipment are required. That said, good judgement and steady footwork are essential, especially on exposed ridges like Sharp Edge as the consequences of a wrong move are high.

Top tips:

Know your limits – if you’re uncomfortable with exposure, consider an easier route.Consider hiring a local guide if you are unsure and don’t be afraid to turn back if it all gets a little too much

Use your hands – expect hands-on sections; gloves with grip can help

Wear proper footwear – walking boots or trail shoes with good grip are ideal

Check the weather – avoid Sharp Edge in wet, windy, or icy conditions as the rock becomes incredibly slippery

Take your time – don’t rush; test every foothold and handhold

Take a look at this video of the circular route of Sharp Edge and Hall’s Fell

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Castlerigg Stone Circle; circular walk from Keswick

September 24th, 2024
Castlerigg Stone Circle, which overlooks the Thirlmere Valley, dates back to around 3000 BC and is one of the most important stone circles in Britain. This 4 mile circular walk will take you from the centre of Keswick up to the stone circle and back into the centre once again. It’s a great little half day wander so if you head out in the morning, you’ll be back in Keswick ready for lunch.

What is Castlerigg Stone Circle?

A short walk outside of Keswick will take you to the prehistoric Castlerigg Stone Circle. Thought to be one of the earliest stone circles constructed in Britain, today the 38 stones sit above the Thirlmere Valley overlooking the peaks of Helvellyn and High Seat. The stones range in size with some of them reaching up to 3m high!

The exact use of Castlerigg Stone Circle isn’t known but it was very likely to have been used as an important meeting place as well as possible for a place to trade and to hold religious ceremonies. Interestingly, stone axes were discovered inside the circle and during the Neolithic period, stone which was quarried from the fells nearby was used to make aces. In fact, in the Langdale Valley, on the side of Pike of Stickle, there’s a secret neolithic cave which was used to quarry stone from to make axes. The stones are also aligned with the moon and the sun so it could even have been used to observe the night sky. What do you think it was used for?

The 360 views of the surrounding fells are stunning and as you wander within and around the stones, try to imagine being here over 5000 years ago, without the nearby road and without the twinkling lights of Keswick below; it really is a magical place to explore.

Where do you park for the Castlerigg Stone Circle walk?

Keswick has plenty of parking options available within the town in pay and display car parks. Check out the Visit Keswick website for a list of car parks in the town.

If you would rather visit the stone circle on your way past Keswick, there is also free parking right next to the entrance. From here, you can walk straight into the site rather than walking up from Keswick.

Is there public transport to Keswick?

Yes – there are buses which run through Keswick from within the Lake District National Park.

The nearest train station to Keswick is at Penrith, around 17 miles away from Keswick. If you are travelling by train, there is a bus service that connects Penrith train station with Keswick.

How long is the Castlerigg Stone Circle walk?

The whole walk is around 7.5km/4.6 miles and should only take approximately 2.5 hours. However, if you want to spend some time looking around and depending on your walking speed, you might want to add on a bit extra to that.

Is Castlerigg Stone Circle family friendly?

Definitely! Castlerigg Stone Circle is a great place to take children to immerse them into some history in a more fun and exciting way. On a rainy day, the ground can get quite muddy and slippery though so some extra care might be needed.

Are there facilities at Castlerigg Stone Circle?

No – there are no facilities at the stone circle. However, there are facilities including toilets, restaurants and cafes within Keswick.

Castlerigg Stone Circle walk map and route details

Download the route from the OS map here.
1. Start the walk in Market Square in Keswick and head out of the town along Station Street. Eventually, this road will take you across the river and towards the leisure centre pool.
2. Look for a right turn at the old train station platform to walk along the railway line path. This will take you over the river again and towards a row of houses.
3. At the end of the row of houses, head through the gate to meet the main road. Head uphill along the main road then cut off it to follow a road called Eleventrees. This is signposted for Castlerigg Stone Circle.
4. At the top of the hill, the road will flatten out and the stone circle will be on your right. There are some information boards and it’s a nice idea to spend some time exploring and taking in the views. When you’re ready to leave, head back to the road and walk slightly further along it, keeping an eye out for the public footpath on your right that leads through fields.
5. The footpath will take you down to the main road where you turn right for a short way, looking for a gate on your left signposted for Walla Crag and Keswick. Follow this path through the field until you reach a small bridge.
6. Cross the bridge and keep on the footpath until you reach Springs Wood.
7. Derwentwater will come into view but keep following the path through the woods with the stream on your right hand side. The path will lead out of the woods and onto Springs Road. Follow the road until you reach the T-Junction.
8. At the T-Junction, turn left and follow the main road back into the centre of Keswick where you started.
Komoot App

Have you ever tried Komoot? Komoot allows you to access routes planned by others or plan your own which you can then download to your phone to follow while you are out. Komoot is free to join and access and you can find the route for his walk here.

What else can I do in Keswick?

Keswick is a hub of activity and there are plenty of things to do. Check out some of the main sights on the Visit Keswick website.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve been to Castlerigg Stone Circle or if you’re going to put it on your list; I really do love to hear from you!
Buttermere Circular walk

July 30th, 2024
This easy 7.4km circular walk around Buttermere is flat and family friendly. It also offers some of the most stunning mountain views in the Lake District without much effort. Buttermere is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Lake District and the drive in either via Honister Pass or the Newlands Pass are both adventures in their own right. The water glistens on a sunny day, calling you to its shores, and the mountains surround Buttermere and its neighbour Crummock water, giving the area a remote feel. This is definitely a walk not to miss!

Where is the parking for Buttermere circular walk?

Luckily there are a few parking spots for the walk around Buttermere but they do fill up quickly on a nice day. This is a popular area so arrive early or later in the evening for a sunset stroll around the lake.
1. National Trust car park at Buttermere
This is a larger car park which is free to park in for National Trust members. It is just a few minutes outside Buttermere itself above the village. Pay and display and card accepted.
1. National Park Authority car park in Buttermere village
A car park with space for around 30 cars in Buttermere village with a public toilet opposite. Pay and display and card accepted.
1. Gatesgarth car park
A small car park opposite a farm. £4 for the day, coins only.

Is there public transport to Buttermere?

The Buttermere shuttle bus runs over the summer season at weekends and on Bank Holiday Mondays between Cockermouth and Buttermere. It runs several times a day and costs £2 for a single. Children under 5 travel for free.

Find out more information about the shuttle bus here.

How long is the Buttermere circular walk?

The whole circular walk is only 7.4km so shouldn’t take any more than a couple of hours. However, depending on any stops or detours you take, as well as walking speed, this could be longer or shorter. Over the summer months, there is sometimes a delicious ice cream stand at Gatesgarth Farm so a stop here is a must.

Is the Buttermere circular walk family friendly?

Suitable for a family walk, the route is mostly flat along the lake shore and the paths are well maintained and wide. However, as with all outdoor spaces, be mindful of rough sections, slippery rocks in wet weather and trip hazards from loose stones and rocks.

Are there facilities on the Buttermere circular walk?

There are no facilities on the walk. However, Buttermere village has a hotel, restaurants, pubs, a cafe, public toilets and baby changing facilities. Sometimes there is a pop up cafe that opens at Gatesgarth Farm.

Can you swim in or paddleboard on Buttermere?

Yes! Buttermere is a perfect place for a swim or a paddleboard. At the Buttermere end of the lake, the water is shallow for quite a way out and a small beach area makes this the perfect place to sit, start your swim from and to launch your paddleboard from.

Buttermere circular walk route and map from Buttermere village

Download the OS route here.
1. Starting at Buttermere village, follow the path out the back of the Buttermere Court Hotel/pub and keep left, following the path down to the lake side.
2. Before the footbridge, you can go either way around the lake but this route heads left, along the stony shore towards the wooded area.

3. Follow the path through the trees, keeping the lake on your right hand side. The path passes through a large stone tunnel (which is fun for both kids and adults) before the views open out to the mountains.

4. The path eventually cuts onto the road for a short section before Gatesgarth car park and the little ice cream stand/cafe that is sometimes open there. At the car park, the path heads right, through the farm and over a bridge across the stream.

5. Keeping right, the lake is still on your right hand side as you follow the lower path along the edge of the shore, taking you through Burtness Wood and back to your starting point.

Download the route on the Komoot App

Have you ever tried Komoot? Komoot allows you to access routes planned by others or plan your own which you can then download to your phone to follow while you are out. Komoot is free to join and access and you can find the route for his walk here.

What else is there to do in Buttermere?

The Buttermere Valley is home to a range of activities; from the via ferrata at Honister Slate mine, Moss Force waterfall, the Buttermere wild swimming infinity pool as well as some wonderful hiking as well as its neighbour Crummock Water.

Check some of these activities out here;

Honister Slate Mine via ferrata

An exciting adventure centre set within a working mine offering an extreme via ferrata, mine tours, an infinity bridge and canyoning.

Moss Force Waterfall

A huge waterfall just a 5 minute walk from the car parking area on Newlands Pass. The main waterfall pool is even deep enough for a swim.

Buttermere infinity pool

The gorgeous pools and waterfalls on Warnscale Beck are well worth a visit. They are popular and can get very busy but if you arrive and there’s already people swimming there, try walking just 5 minutes further up the waterfall and you’ll find some true hidden gems.

Hike to Haystacks and the Warnscale bothyThe views on this hike are beautiful and a visit to the bothy to see the view from the window is worth it just for that! Check out this route on the OS app.

Places to stay in Buttermere

The Buttermere Court Hotel

Located not far from the lake itself, this hotel has free parking, great food and a bar to enjoy.

YHA Buttermere

An ideal place to start the hike for Haystacks, the hostel mainly offers dorm rooms but private rooms with a shared bathroom are available.

Syke Farm Campsite

Directly located in Buttermere village, this campsite has spaces for tents as well as yurts and shepherd’s huts.

Let me know if you visit Buttermere and do the circular walk; I’d love to hear from you!

For additional UK outdoor adventures, wild swimming, hiking routes and more, check out my other blog posts and follow me @Wild_0utdoors on Instagram.
A quiet Lake District hike with big views; Allen Crags and Glaramara

April 17th, 2024
Popular with walkers tackling England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, this part of the Lake District is notoriously crowded on a nice day with hoards of people heading for the country’s highest point. However, hidden in plain sight is the wonderful Glaramara which provides stunning 360 degree views of the nearby popular peaks, a variety of terrain and a feeling of wildness and remoteness. This is a beautiful area of the Lake District and if you enjoy a big mountain hike with some challenging ascent and the reward of some of the best views around then this Lake District hike isn’t one you’ll want to miss.

Route details for Glaramara, Lake District

The hike starts in the idyllic Borrowdale Valley area of the Lake District, known for being popular amongst climbers for its lower level crags, the stunning shores of Derwentwater, tiny, picturesque hamlets, wild swimming locations and its fabulous hiking. Regardless of whether you start at Seatoller National Trust Car Park or Seathwaite Farm, your first aim is to head out the back of the farm following the stony track and up the valley towards Stockley Bridge.

Stockley Bridge, an 19th century packhorse bridge, takes you across Grain’s Gill and the beautifully clear blue-green water. It’s also a great place for a wild swim here FYI – either in the pool just down from the bridge or just behind the bridge is what, if you really use your imagination, could be described as a jacuzzi (but just much colder).

After crossing Stockley Bridge, head through the game and turn left following the stepped stone path up the hillside tracking Grain’s Gill to your left. If you have time, there are some incredible plunge pools, waterfalls and swim spots along Grain’s Gill that are well worth seeking out if you have the time! If not, then the path gradually winds its way uphill towards the looming mountain in the distance. It gets steeper the higher you rise but eventually it flattens out at the top revealing the most stunning view back down the valley the way you came and further out towards Derwentwater.

Once you reach the head of the valley, following the path left will lead you to another set off crossroads. Take a time to really reflect on your surroundings here. Behind you, you’ve got Great Gable, to your right, Great End and Ill Crag as well as Scafell Pike behind them all, in front of you is Bowfell and down into the Langdale Valley with the iconic rounded top of Pike of Stickle and to your left, the way you’ll be heading is up to Allen Crags and Glaramara. Once you’ve enjoyed taking in your surroundings, head up the path to your left and you’ll soon be on the summit of Allen Crags, marked with a small rocky cairn and with views down to Great Gable and Sprinkling Tarn.

After leaving the summit of Allen Crags, you’ll be able to see the long path ahead of you. The path here isn’t obvious and occasionally seems to disappear so if the bad weather came in here, this is something you’ll need good navigation skills for. The walk along the top here is rocky in patches but also boggy as it passes smaller tarns and winds its way along the top. Eventually, you’ll reach a small scramble bringing you out towards the summit of Glaramara.

The views from Glaramara are once again spectacular so it’s worth enjoying a stop here for lunch. It feels isolated here and the views down to the Borrowdale Valley are spectacular. There’s then a small rocky scramble down the mound of rocks on the summit of Glaramara before following the path over towards Raven Crag and Thronythwaite Fell. The path leads down the ridgeline of Thronythwaite and towards Combe Gill. There is a lovely little waterfall to enjoy here before the path leads you back to the main road where you can either head back to your car at Seatoller or walk down path behind the back of the campsite back down to Seathwaite Farm.

Map and key locations for Glaramara hike

Access the route on the OS Map App here.

Locations

1: Parking at Seathwaite Farm to start the hike. Additional parking also available at Seatoller National Trust Car Park.

2: Stockley Bridge and the start of the ascent up Grain’s Gill – some great wild swimming spots here

3: Meeting point of paths – turn left

4. Path veers off to the left taking you towards the rocky summit of Glaramara

5: The summit of Glaramara

6: The ridge descending down from Throneythwaite Fell

Komoot App

Have you ever tried Komoot? Komoot allows you to access routes planned by others or plan your own which you can then download to your phone to follow while you are out. Komoot is free to join and access and you can find the route for his walk here.

Top Tips for hiking Glaramara
- Parking at Seathwaite Farm can be tricky on a nice day as it fills up quickly. There are also roadside parking places along Styhead Pass on the way to the farm but these also fill up quickly. Arrive early and park respectfully to allow other vehicles to pass
- Optional start point is at Seatoller Car Park.
- There are toilets at Seathwaite Farm but these are the only facilities on the route
- The Borrowdale Rambler bus service runs from Keswick to Seatoller so you can access this hike via public transport
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Lake District sunrise hike; Yew Crag

April 2nd, 2024

Yew Crag should be a Lake District walk that’s on sunrise walk list. The walk is an easy and short but the views are spectacular over Ullswater. It can also be easily be extended into a longer one or tied in with the beautiful Aira Force waterfall. Read on for all the route details for this Lake District sunrise hike up Yew Crag, how to get there and how to extend your walk.

Where is Yew Crag in the Lake District?

Yew Crag is a small but stunning viewpoint which overlooks Ullswater and the Eastern Fells. It is best reached from the National Trust Car Park for Aira Force with just a 45 minute walk. On a calm and sunny day, the water sparkles and the mountains loom in the distance; it really is absolutely beathtaking.

Lake District sunrise hike; Yew Crag route and maps

From the car park, head out the back past the visitor centre and through the woodlands. Be sure to keep the river on your right. Eventually, you reach a wooden bridge; cross over the river and head up through the woodland. Keep slightly right and pass through a wooden swing gate.

The path then heads right before meeting a junction where you need to take the higher path to the left. This rises gradually onto the hillside. Stay on this path and eventually you’ll reach Yew Crag. You’ll know you’re there because there’s a little gate to go through to get onto the rocky viewpoint. Be sure to regularly look back behind you to take in the views!

From here, you have a couple of options; head back down the same way or follow the path underneath Yew Crag. This will take you back to the car park.

Downloadable map routes for Yew Crag

Here’s the loop on OS maps and the link to download the route;

Or, if you have time, I would instead recommend a slightly different route. From the car park head up through the woods to Aira Force waterfall following the signs for Gowbarrow Fell. From that summit you can loop back down, past Yew Crag and to the car park. This is a longer 7km ish walk. Here’s the route on OS maps with the link to download the map.

For an incredible Lake District sunrise hike, Yew Crag should definitely be on your list! You can easily spend half a day in this area and Aira Force is worth a visit to see the waterfall. You can even swim in the higher falls; check out my previous blog post for how to find the swim spot here.

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Easy to find Lake District waterfall perfect for a wild swim.

March 25th, 2024

Let’s face it – hunting for the best waterfalls and wild swimming spots in the Lake District can be a pain and a lot of effort that sometimes turns out in fact to be not worth the effort at all. So when I found this waterfall a mere stones throw from the roadside, where there also happens to be ample parking, I knew I’d struck gold on the whole Lake District wild swimming spots malarky. The pool to swim in is deep, the waterfall is powerful and the access is so easy my 86-year old Grandma could get down to it (maybe). It really is the perfect wild swimming spot to include into a busy day of adventure or if you just want a quick and simple waterfall to swim in without all the faff of planning. Read on to find out all you need to know!

Wild swimming spot at Aira Force and how to get there

Aira Force, the popular waterfall in the Lake District at Ullswater, is worth a visit in itself for the dramatic 20-metre drop and beautiful bridges that frame the fall BUT head further upstream to High Force and that’s where you’ll find the perfect wild swimming spot.

Parking at High Force Car Park- CA11 0JY

Luckily, there’s a large National Trust car park at the High Cascades about a 5 minute walk from the waterfall. The cost varies depending on how long you want to spend there as there’s some lovely walks in the area.

The cost is £5 for 2 hours, £7 for 4 hours, £8.50 all day and National Trust members park for free by scanning your membership card.

Getting to the waterfall

These will be the easiest set of directions to find a wild swimming spot that you’ve ever had to follow. First, from the car park, cross the road and head through the gate. There’s often a lot of sheep in this field so keep your dog on a lead here if you’re adventuring with your pooch.

There’s an obvious and well-worn path that heads straight downhill towards another gate. Follow this path for a couple of minutes and go straight through the gate at the bottom.

In front of you you’ll see a wooden bridge (avoid this) and a set of wooden signposts. Follow the path to the right, downstream, and in about 30 seconds on your left, you’ll be at the base of the waterfall on your left hand side and this is your swim spot.

It’s that easy!

There’s a flattish area of stones where you can stand to get changed and entry to the water is easy but a bit slippery so take care here.

TOP TIP; this is a VERY popular area for visitors and walking so if you want any chance of having this spot to yourself I’d either head here in winter or early or late in the day. We were here for around 9am on an early spring day in March and only saw a couple of other people but I’ve also been here in summer when it’s a struggle to weave through the bodies or even find a parking space!

If you’re new to wild swimming and need any tips for how to find swim spots and tips for safe wild swimming then check out my previous blog Why everyone is wild swimming and why you should start too.

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A post shared by I Z Z Y | Outdoor Adventure | Hiking | Wild Swim | Travel (@wild_0utdoors)

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Three Lake District waterfalls for wild swimming

September 2nd, 2023

The Lake District is home to more wild swimming spots than you could ever count (probably) and is a waterfall lover’s dream. With deep and narrow canyons, cascading waterfalls plunging into pools of emerald water and meandering rivers and lakes, the Lake District really is the perfect place to hunt out your next wild swimming spot. These three waterfall spots are well-known, visited regularly and are probably ones you’ve seen photos of before but with good reason; they’re all easy to access and offer the opportunity to plunge into the icy water while enjoying a breathtaking Lakeland view at the same time.

Exploring these beautiful and popular locations is well worth your time and effort but unfortunately, an influx of visitors has seen some of these natural beauties left in a state of disregard with rubbish, drinks bottles and cans strewn around the area. As a fellow lover of the great outdoors, it’s important now more than ever that we make sure we leave these beauty spots clean, free of rubbish and safe for the next people to enjoy.

Whorneyside Force waterfall in the Langdale Valley

Beneath the shadow of Crinkle Crags, this secluded waterfall casts a watchful gaze over the spectacular Langdale Valley which is known for some of the most beautiful Lake District scenery. The waterfall cascades down into a large and crystal clear pool, drawing in sweaty hikers and keen wild dippers with the promise of a refreshing dunk. As you walk along the valley floor, you would have no idea of the hidden waterfall and it’s only once you get closer that you get your first glimpse of the water tumbling down the mountain.

Walk distance: 8km/5 miles

Estimated time: Around 2 hours (not including swimming time)

Starting location: National Trust car park at Stickle Ghyll (LA22 9JU). Additional parking slightly further up the road at Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel.

Click here for the interactive route on Komoot.

Click here for the route on OS maps.

Difficulty: Intermediate – Good fitness required, well-maintained but stony paths, suitable for all skill levels, uphill section towards waterfall is short.

Dog friendly: Yes if fit and healthy and used to uphill walks on uneven ground.

How to get to Whorneyside Force Waterfall

Whorneyside Force can easily be tied in with circular routes or longer hiking days if you wish but this is the shortest and quickest way to get there.

Starting from the National Trust car park at Stickle Ghyll, head out towards the road and follow a westerly direction alongside the road through the fields. As you near the end of the road, a tarmac path leads out in front of you towards Stool End Farm. I absolutely adore the breathtaking scenery along this section; from the untouched natural beauty to the surrounding mountains that thrust themselves out from beneath your feet on both sides of you, it’s hard not to live in the moment and be in awe of these giants. Be sure to look to your right to see the iconic dome of Pike O’Stickle with its hidden secret cave!

As you pass through the farmyard (this is correct, believe me!) and through the gate follow the path straight towards the river where you want to stick to the right hand side on the stony path. Pass the wooden bridge on your left and eventually the path will change to a well-trodden grassy oath which will start to head up a gradual incline. Keeping the river to your left you will eventually reach another bridge crossing the river.

Follow this then turn immediately right. From here, you can just make out the rush of water from Whorneyside Force.

Getting to the waterfall

The path from this second wooden bridge, follows the stream uphill and is a slightly eroded and well-used path. The path is easy to follow but can be slippery in some wetter weather so more care and attention is needed here than on the walk in. After a short few minutes of uphill walking Whorneyside Force will appear in full view in front of you.

After a dry weather spell, the water will trickle over the rocks into the shimmering, crystal-clear pool. Fortunately, the pool is deep enough to swim in even if there has been a lack of recent rain. In wetter weather, the waterfall turns into a raging torrent that I would definitely avoid swimming in. Entry into the water is simple and there are numerous entry points involving clambering over a few rocks before sliding into that icy cold water.

Sour Milk Gill Waterfall near Easedale Tarn

It’s a good job that what this waterfall lacks in its name, it definitely makes up for it in its offering as a not to be missed wild swimming spot. Getting its name from the swirling, white water, Sour Milk Gill is located on the beck which flows down from Easedale Tarn, a scenic glacier formed lake that sits in the centre of the Lake District. The waterfall on the way up to the tarn is a true gem and the water can be surprisingly warm as it faces the sunshine for much of the day. The emerald colour pool is deep enough for a few swim strokes but the location is so stunning that when we visited we spent a couple of hours dipping in and out of the pool and snacking on our picnic. The views looking up to the waterfall and back down the valley to the fells are superb making this an idyllic dipping spot.

Walk distance: 4.6km/2.9miles

Estimated time: 1.5 hours (not including swimming time)

Starting location: The Lancrigg car park (LA22 9QN)

Click here for the interactive route on Komoot.

Click here for the route on OS maps.

Cost of parking: £6 for all day which can be redeemed against hot drinks in the cafe.

Difficulty: Easy – easily accessible and well maintained paths, mostly flat until heading up towards the waterfall.

Dog friendly: Yes if fit and healthy and used to uphill walks on uneven ground.

How to get to Sour Milk Gill Waterfall

Starting from The Lancrigg (a great little place to stop after your hike, sit in the gardens and enjoy some good food and a cuppa), head down through the garden to join up with a path that will take you down towards Easedale Road and the river. Before the road curves around to the left, you cross the river over a little bridge. The trail from here is flat and follows the little stream on your right-hand side and through a wooded area before opening up into farmland.

The track here is obvious and it gradually leads uphill; you’ll be able to see the huge waterfall in view in front of you.

Eventually the path joins the base of the waterfall and you have two options. Either cross the river over the footbridge and walk up the grassy bank alongside the waterfalls or just stay on the maintained track. Both will take you up to the swimming spot so it’s really up to you which way you choose. After climbing the track, eventually you’ll reach the swimming hole where you’ll find easy access and lots of places to sit and dry off afterwards. If you want a bigger swim, then Easedale Tarn isn’t too much further up the path.

The Thirlmere Infinity Pool

Next time you’re scrolling through social media and seeing video after video of luxurious Bali infinity pools remember that we have more than a few of our own right here in the Lake District! It might not be as warm or luscious but it’s definitely more interesting saying you’ve dipped in a mountain side infinity pool. I visited here on a wet, moody and misty day and the atmosphere created by the low hanging clouds was spectacular. The pool itself is relatively small with enough space for a couple of strokes so it’s definitely more of a lounging around in the water, admiring the view type pool. The waterfall at the edge of the pool tumbles down into another pool below and sitting at the end of the drop is a special experience you don’t want to miss out on.

Top tip: This is a VERY popular and VERY busy spot. Our visit at 9am on a rainy Saturday morning turned out to be a popular place and we shared it with 6 other people. It’s probably a good one to leave for a week day out of school holidays in some iffy weather if you want any chance of experiencing it peacefully.

Walk distance: 3km/1.9mile round trip

Estimated time: 45 minutes each way, not including swimming time

Starting location: small free parking area at the north side of Thirlmere Reservoir where the A591 from Keswick meets the B5322 at Back Lane. Find the Google Maps pin here.

Click here for the interactive route on Komoot.

Click here for the route on OS maps.

Cost of parking: free in roadside parking area

Difficulty: Intermediate – the route starts off with a gradual uphill before flattening out along a rocky and uneven path. The path up to the waterfall is steep and very slippery in wet weather. The rocks to get down to the infinity pool are slippery too so caution is needed.

Dog friendly: Yes if fit and healthy and used to uphill walks on uneven ground.

How to find the Thirlmere Infinity Pool

There are many routes up to the Thirlmere infinity pool but this route is direct from the free parking area. After leaving the parking area, head up Stanah Lane towards some farm building where you’ll see a gate you want to go through. Once through the gate, turn right and follow the path alongside the stone wall and through the bracken (depending on the time of year you’re visiting).

All you have to do is keep following this path towards Thirlmere reservoir and eventually you’ll reach a wooden footbridge that crosses over Fisherplace Gill – the location of the infinity pool you’re heading to. After crossing the footbridge, turn left and head straight up the hillside using the path that has been carved out by many, many adventurous souls. This part of the walk is steep and very slippery in wet weather but it’s short lived and within 5 minutes you’ll be at the Lake District’s version of that Bali infinity pool.

Upon reaching the infinity pool, head down to the rocks at the back and cross over to the other side as this is where the easiest entry is. Be sure to enjoy the moment here; the views, even though down to the main road, are beautiful down the valley and it’s easy to get wrapped up in getting photos rather than just enjoying the moment.

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Happy adventuring!

Izzy x

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