High Spy Circular Walk

Walking the High Spy Circular will see you experience a variety of terrain, including steep hillsides, a rugged ridgeline, and boggy stretches of trail that follow along a stream. To comfortably traverse the trail, be sure to wear sturdy walking footwear that is ideally water-resistant to combat the muddy ground on the latter portion of the walk. This is a very popular route in the area, making parking at the trailhead a challenge during peak hours. Be sure to arrive early enough to secure a space and beat the crowds.

Setting out from the trailhead in the village of Little Town, the path will take you to the southeast and begin to climb up the hillside before turning to the north oin the ascent of Cat Bells. At the summit, you will enjoy some beautifully scenic views across the calm expanse of Derwent Water to the northeast. After taking in the views, head south along the trails and follow it across the undulating landscape, making your way over the summits of Maiden Moor, High Spy, and High Scawdel. Here, you will have a great sightline overlooking Honister Pass and a number of rugged fells nearby. Follow the trail as it turns back to the north and descends the steep hillside into the valley. Here, you will make your way through the boggy terrain along the winding banks of Newlands Beck until you arrive back at the starting point of your walk.