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Helvellyn

950m Elevation
713m Prominence
England Country
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Explore routes near Helvellyn

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

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Striding Edge, Helvellyn and Catstye Cam

12 km ~6h 30m Hard

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Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

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Bannerdale Crags from Mungrisdale Wainwright

6.9 km ~2h Moderate

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Striding Edge and Swirral Edge Circuit

A classic and exhilarating route to the summit of Helvellyn, this circular walk begins at Glenridding and ascends via Striding Edge, a famous narrow ridge requiring some scrambling. After reaching the summit, the descent is via Swirral Edge, another rocky ridge, before looping back to Glenridding.

12.5 km ~6 hours Challenging

Helvellyn from Thirlmere via Browncove Crags

This route starts from Swirls car park near Thirlmere and takes a direct ascent to Helvellyn via Browncove Crags. It's a straightforward yet steep path that offers fantastic views of Thirlmere and the surrounding fells. This is one of the shorter routes to the summit, making it popular for those seeking a quicker climb.

8 km ~4 hours Moderate

Helvellyn via Wainwright’s Favourite Route from Glenridding

This route follows Wainwright’s preferred ascent, starting from Glenridding and ascending via Mires Beck, Birkhouse Moor, and Striding Edge. It offers a mix of gentle gradients, dramatic ridges, and stunning views, making it a highly rewarding approach to Helvellyn.

11 km ~5.5 hours Challenging

Helvellyn from Threlkeld via Clough Head and Great Dodd

A longer, scenic route that approaches Helvellyn from the north, starting at Threlkeld. The trail ascends via Clough Head and Great Dodd, following a rolling ridge walk before reaching the summit. This route is less crowded and offers superb panoramic views.

18 km ~8 hours Strenuous

Helvellyn from Patterdale via Grisedale Tarn

This route begins in Patterdale and takes a gradual climb to Grisedale Tarn before ascending to Helvellyn. It's a less exposed route compared to the ridges and offers a quieter alternative with excellent views along the way.

14 km ~6.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Furth Simm Hewitt Nuttall Wainwright Birkett High Hills of Britain Synge Fellranger Historic County Top (pre-1889) Administrative County Top (1889 to 1996) Current County/UA Top

Elevation

950m

3,116 ft

Prominence

713m

Coordinates

54.5270, -3.0175

NY342151

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S

At the Summit

The summit features a large stone cairn and a trig point, perfect for those summit selfies... if the wind doesn't blow you away first!

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with sections of grassy slopes and occasional boggy areas

Helvellyn is primarily composed of volcanic rocks, mainly andesite, formed during the Ordovician period. The rugged terrain and sheer cliffs were shaped by glacial activity, creating a dramatic landscape that boasts fault lines and various sedimentary deposits.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you'll catch stunning views of Ullswater, the surrounding fells, and, on a clear day, the peaks of the Scottish Highlands.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Helvellyn' is derived from Old Norse, believed to mean 'hairy or rough hill.' A fitting description, especially when the weather doesn’t play nice!

Historical Significance

Helvellyn has been a longstanding favourite among walkers and climbers, attracting visitors for its breathtaking landscape and historical significance in British mountaineering.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Swirls Car Park (grid reference NY 348 166) offers ample parking and serves as a popular starting point for various trails.

Public Transport

Stagecoach buses operate services from Keswick to Glenridding, with stops close to popular trailheads.

Nearby Facilities

There are public toilets available in Glenridding, and for a warm brew and a slice of cake, head to one of the local cafés.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Sudden weather changes, steep drops along Striding Edge, and slippery stones can make this hike challenging. Always check the forecast and your map!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Helvellyn?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Helvellyn through the maps

Are there other walkers around Helvellyn?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Helvellyn search or of course create your own walk for Helvellyn

Can I organise a walk to Helvellyn?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Helvellyn.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Helvellyn?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Helvellyn here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NY342151

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