Helvellyn Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Elevation
950m
3,116 ft
Prominence
713m
Coordinates
54.5270, -3.0175
NY342151
OS Map
90
Explorer: OL5S
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!
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.
From the summit, you'll catch stunning views of Ullswater, the surrounding fells, and, on a clear day, the peaks of the Scottish Highlands.
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!
Helvellyn has been a longstanding favourite among walkers and climbers, attracting visitors for its breathtaking landscape and historical significance in British mountaineering.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Swirls Car Park (grid reference NY 348 166) offers ample parking and serves as a popular starting point for various trails.
Stagecoach buses operate services from Keswick to Glenridding, with stops close to popular trailheads.
There are public toilets available in Glenridding, and for a warm brew and a slice of cake, head to one of the local cafés.
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Some common questions about the hills answered
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Helvellyn through the maps
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
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.
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.
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
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
Grid Ref: NY342151
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