2025 Cumbria Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in January)

Helvellyn is one of the most famous mountains in England, standing at 950 metres (3,000 ft), making it the third highest peak in the country. Located in the Lake District of Cumbria, Helvellyn is a popular destination for climbers and nature lovers. One of the most popular routes up the mountain is via Striding Edge, a challenging narrow path that offers dramatic views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys. From the summit, climbers can enjoy stunning views over the surrounding lakes, such as Ullswater and Thirlmere. Helvellyn has long been a favorite of explorers and artists. In 1926, pilot Bert Hinkler landed his plane on the summit of Helvellyn, one of the first aircraft landings on a British mountain. Helvellyn is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds of prey and other mountain animals. The trails up Helvellyn offer a variety of challenges, from fairly easy trails to more technical ones such as Striding Edge.

Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England, standing at 978 metres (3,209 ft). Situated in the Lake District of Cumbria, Scafell Pike is part of a dramatic landscape and is popular with climbers and holidaymakers seeking a challenge in the outdoors. Scafell Pike is often part of the "Three Peaks" challenge, where climbers attempt to summit the highest peaks in England (Scafell Pike), Scotland (Ben Nevis), and Wales (Snowdon) within 24 hours. From the summit, climbers can enjoy spectacular views of the Lake District, including Wastwater Lake, known as the deepest lake in England. On clear days, views can extend as far as the Isle of Man and Scotland. The most popular route up Scafell Pike is from Wasdale Head, which is the quickest and most direct route to the summit. There are also longer routes from Eskdale and Borrowdale, but they offer different views. The summit of Scafell Pike was gifted as a national war monument to the British people after World War I by Lord Leconfield, in honour of the fallen soldiers. The weather on Scafell Pike can change rapidly, even in summer. Heavy fog and rain are common, so climbers need to be well prepared, both in terms of clothing and navigation equipment. Scafell Pike is a mountain that offers both physical and technical challenges for climbers, but also offers a profound experience of its natural beauty.