[2025 Keswick Attraction] Travel Guide for Helvellyn (Updated Jan)

Helvellyn is the highest mountain in Lake District. As a hiking lover, how could I not going there when I visit Lake District. I took the bus from Ambleside to Windermere, and then to the start point. The best way to go is definitely drive, or I would suggest to check the bus time before you go because there’s limited bus service and it takes about 6-7.5 hours to go to the top. The view is absolutely stunning, can’t deal 😭

#mountainhike Lake District is not short of amazing hiking routes, but I found Helvellyn particularly rewarding among the more time/energy-consuming routes. 💞Reasons to Recommend: 1) Ullswater and its neighbouring villages 2) Striding Edge, which is the ridge of the mountain 3) Red Tarn, a lake surrounded by mountains 4) St Sunday Crag and the valleys in between mountains 🕰️ Expected duration of hike: 6hrs round trip from Glenriding 🗓️Itinerary Scheduling: Best in mid-Spring or mid-Autumn, where there’s minimal snow and most varied scenery

#2024mapped Lake District, being 2-drive further north from Birmingham, is a rather unexplored area for global travellers (and even UK people themselves), but it packs many surprises when it comes to natural sceneries, which is no inferior to Alpine landscape at all. A major concern I had before departure was how deep into the nature I have to go/hike to catch great views. After weeks of intensive research, I narrowed it down to 5 places, with hiking routes which has enough exciting views yet manageable time/energy-wise (from 1hr to 5hr full trip) 1. Tarn Hows (1.5hrs): of all lakes in LD, this is one of the smallest; it’s doable and worthy to do a full hike around it 2. Catbells (2.5hrs): the hike with most varied views yet relatively easy because it’s sandwiched in between lakes, higher mountains and plains 3. Latrig (30min): hands down the shortest of all routes in LD, yet with the least effort. Nobody should have skipped this hike. 4. Buttermere (3.5hrs): the walk feels rather long (coz less dense with great views along the way), but there are quite a lot of unique huge trees at the southeast end of the lake (sadly, there’s no parking lot near this end to have a shortcut straight to here); Bonus: Rannerdale Knotts (2.5hrs): in my research, I hesitated between Buttermere and this one because there were side-by-side in the same neighbourhood and this is shorter, but I chose Buttermere for the trees 5. Helvellyn (5-6hrs): one of the more challenging ones, but it’s one of the easier one that involves hiking along the mountain ridges, which is both unique in terms of experiences and views P/S: if you’re not a fan for hiking, just do Latrig. And do drive through Honister Pass; the view through the windows is spectacular enough, and there’s quite a few places to stop by the road.

#outdooradventure Camping at Helvellyn during winter was an exhilarating experience. The snow-covered landscape transformed the area into a winter wonderland, offering a serene and magical atmosphere. Setting up camp in such a pristine environment was both challenging and rewarding. The crisp, cold air and the silence of the winter night created a peaceful ambiance that is hard to find elsewhere. The views from the campsite were breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks and frosty valleys stretching as far as the eye could see. The clear night sky, dotted with countless stars, added to the enchantment of the experience. Despite the cold, the sense of adventure and the beauty of the surroundings made it all worthwhile. Waking up to a stunning sunrise over the snowy landscape was the perfect end to an incredible camping trip. For those seeking a unique and memorable outdoor adventure, winter camping at Helvellyn is an absolute must.

#outdooradventure This morning’s hike up Helvellyn was nothing short of extraordinary. Blessed with clear skies and crisp air, the journey to the summit was both invigorating and awe-inspiring. The trail, though challenging at times, offered breathtaking views at every turn, making each step worthwhile. Reaching the summit was the highlight of my experience. The panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys were simply stunning, providing a sense of peace and accomplishment. The feeling of standing atop one of England’s highest peaks, with the world spread out below, was truly unparalleled. The camaraderie among fellow hikers added to the experience, as we shared stories and encouragement along the way. Helvellyn has undoubtedly become my favorite summit visit to date, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a memorable and rewarding outdoor adventure. This hike is a testament to the beauty and majesty of nature.

#outdooradventure The grueling hike to Helvellyn's summit was rewarded with awe-inspiring views that left me speechless. Cameras can't capture the true scale and wonder, but I tried! The sunset's kaleidoscope of colors and tranquil evening atmosphere made every step worthwhile. Camping on the summit added to the magic. Meeting fellow hikers from across the UK, sharing stories and camaraderie, made the experience even more special. Tips: Pack extra gear, waterproofs, and snacks. Highlights: Unparalleled views, stunning sunset, and wonderful hiking community. Will I return? Absolutely!

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.