Helm Crag Circular Walk
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The Helm Crag Circular Walk is a fun and at times rugged adventure in the Lake District that will take you to the summit nicknamed “The Lion and the Lamb” due to its unique rock formations. While out on the trail, you will walk through the village of Grasmere and traverse forest and farmland terrain before arriving at the summit for amazing views overlooking the Cumbria landscape. This is a great walk that features a good variety of terrain, making it suitable for a variety of walkers.
Getting there
To reach the car park for the Helm Crag Circular Walk from Ambleside, drive north on Rydal Road/A591 for 3.5mi and take the first exit at the roundabout onto Stock Lane. After 0.4mi, turn right on College Street, making another right in 40ft to enter the car park.
About
When to do | Year-Round |
Backcountry Campsites | No |
Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
Family friendly | Older Children only |
Route Signage | Average |
Crowd Levels | Moderate |
Route Type | Lollipop |
Helm Crag Circular Walk
Elevation Graph
Weather
Helm Crag Circular Walk Description
The Helm Crag Walk is a beautifully scenic route from Grasmere that can be completed by walkers of most skill levels, but there are a few stretches of rugged terrain near the summit of the hill that could prove troublesome for less-mobile travellers. Be sure to wear proper footwear and take your time in these areas to better traverse the terrain. Additionally, parking in the village can fill up quickly, so be sure to arrive early to secure parking.
The charming village of Grasmere offers access to a number of ultra-scenic walking routes in the Lake District, and the Helm Crag Circular is no exception. The trail initially passes through the historic village, before passing through a charming stretch of woodland terrain on the approach to Helm Crag. Here, you will need to traverse the rocky terrain to the summit for some amazing views overlooking the Cumbria countryside. This is a perfect route for casual and seasoned walkers alike.
The trail sets out from the car park next to the Wordsworth Hotel & Spa and heads east to cross over the flowing waters of the River Rothay. After crossing the bridge, head left to make your way through a stretch of woodland terrain, before once again crossing over the scenic river. From here, you will follow the path for 220ft until you arrive at the edge of Broadgate Road.
Turn left here and make the next right onto Easedale Road, following it northwest through the village for 0.6mi to pass by Butharlyp Howe and head down a lane on your right. After 0.3mi, the lane will narrow into a trail that will take you at first through a beautifully serene stretch of forest before opening up along the rugged slopes of Helm Crag.
Keep straight for 0.3mi and head left at the junction to make the steep but brief ascent of Helm Crag. After traversing the rugged and rocky terrain, you will receive some amazing views overlooking the surrounding Cumbria countryside that includes Gibson knott along the ridge to the northwest and Stone Arthur across the valley to the east. After taking in the views, head north along the trail to descend the hillside along a switchback path and make your way through a series of gates and stiles.
After crossing over Green Burn, keep right along the trail to pass by Turn House and arrive at a lane. Follow this through the picturesque farmlands to the southeast for 0.5mi, where you will come to a fork in the road next to the River Rothay. Take this to the right and continue on for 0.7mi until you reach Easedale Road. At this point, you can head left along the road to retrace your steps through the village of Grasmere on the way back to the Helm Crag Circular Walk.
Trail Highlights
Helm Crag
Located in the Central Fells north of the village of Grasmere, Helm Crag is a 405m hill that sits at the end of a ridge, making it a prominent feature of the landscape despite its low height. This hill is one of the most easily recognizable hills in the Lake District due to the rocky summit that features distinctive formations known as “The Lion and the Lamb.”
Insider Hints
Arrive early, as parking in the village can fill up quickly.
Wear decent walking shoes to traverse the rugged terrain.
Pop into The Dove Cafe Bar & Bistro near the trailhead for a delicious post-walk lunch.
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