The traditional climb of Wansfell Pike from Ambleside is perfectly pleasant. However the walk is much improved by carrying on towards Troutbeck and turning south and returning along the fellside overlooking Windermere.
A health warning. This walk does not go to the high point of Wansfell!! In fact my suspicions are that the highest point of Wansfell (at 1601 feet and known as Baystones) is rarely visited. It is best visited from Troutbeck. Despite this heinous error this is a splendid walk. Climb the steep slopes of Wansfell from Ambleside before carrying on towards Troutbeck. The return via Windermere has great views.
I enjoyed the walk in hot September sunshine, the final stretch of woodland a relief. As a result I came across a number of American and Australian walkers who admitted to revising their opinion of England’s notorious weather. Most I met were on the climb and loitering around the summit of Wansfell Pike. One of Wansfell Pike’s great and almost unique benefits is that it stands alone from other fells. It thereby offering panoramic views in all directions. The Far Eastern fells stand out well, they are not usually seen as a panorama but they do on this walk. It is interesting to work out which is which. as does Windermere. The views to west and across to the Langdale Pikes and beyond are very good. However it is on the return path that bring the most unusual and best views down Windermere. All things considered it is an interesting climb from a popular centre.
It is easy to reverse this walk. Start with the long gradual descent leading out of Ambleside to the south. However I prefer getting the steep climbing out the way early in a walk.
From Wansfell Pike follow the main footpath towards Troutbeck. Just after a wall turn sharp right and join a permissive path (not obvious to start with on the ground) heading south.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Comment *
Name *
Email *
Website
Δ
