Helvellyn - Nethermost Pike - High Crag - Dollywaggon Pike

M Parkin

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Helvellyn is England's third highest peak and as such can be very busy at times, but do not let this put you off this superb mountain walk. Starting the walk early and from near Patterdale rather than from Glenridding, means that the spectacular Striding Edge can be reached and crossed without the crowds that can be encountered later in the day.

Though the route I have chosen is indeed longer than the usual Glenridding one, it again has the advantage of being much less busy on the return leg too. It also allows you to choose either to summit Nethermost Pike, High Crag and Dollywaggon Pike with very little extra exertion on the descent from Helvellyn, or use a lower path that skirts all three.

It also passes Grisedale Tarn, the parting place where the famous writer Wordsworth and his brother John said their last farewell in 1805, John being drowned at sea shortly after on a ship he commanded. On reaching the valley bottom, the walk travels the length of lovely peaceful valley of Grisedale and back to the start.

England - North England - Cumbria - Lake District - North East