NY4811 : West from Selside Pike

Selside Pike

655m Elevation
36m Prominence
England Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NY4811 : West from Selside Pike

Karl and Ali Photo source

Overview

Selside Pike: A Hidden Gem in the Lake District

Introduction

Selside Pike stands proudly at 657 meters, offering exquisite views and a chance to explore the magnificent Lake District. Not as popular as some of its better-known relatives, this mountain is a great choice for those seeking tranquility amidst stunning scenery.

Geology

Composed of volcanic rock, Selside Pike showcases the dramatic geological history of the Lake District. The area features a variety of rock types and compositions, making it a delightful spot for geology buffs and casual hikers alike.

Routes

The Ambleside to Selside Pike Loop is a fantastic choice for hikers looking to experience the beauty this region has to offer. Spanning approximately 12.5 km, this moderate trail offers a blend of gentle slopes and more challenging sections, perfect for a fulfilling day's adventure.

Summit Features

Reaching the summit rewards you with a modest cairn and unparalleled views that extend across the Lake District. Don’t forget to sign the visitors' register; it’s always nice to see who else has braved the trek.

Terrain

The terrain here is rugged and representative of Lake District hiking, with rocky paths intermingled with grassy sections and the occasional patch of heather. Good hiking boots are a must!

Views

From the top, you’ll be treated to stunning views over Windermere, the Kentmere Valley, and the majestic mountains surrounding the area. The best seasons for views are late spring and autumn, as the weather tends to be clearer, and trust me, the panoramas are worth it!

Hazards

Like all adventures, there are a few things to watch out for. Uneven terrain can be tricky, particularly in wet weather, and never underestimate the fickleness of Lake District weather. Keep an eye out for wandering sheep as they seem to believe they own every inch of the trail.

Access

Accessing Selside Pike is convenient, thanks to a plethora of options in Ambleside. With a mix of parking options available and regular bus services from Windermere, it is quite approachable.

Facilities

Ambleside is a treasure trove of facilities, including delightful cafes ready to serve you a hot drink and some delicious cake post-hike

Conclusion

In summary, Selside Pike is a marvellous destination for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature's wonders. It may not be the highest peak in the region, but its enchanting views and charming trails make it a worthy addition to any wanderer's bucket list. So, lace up your boots, grab your walking stick and head out for an unforgettable experience in this stunning corner of the Lake District!

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Selside Pike

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

Striding Edge, Helvellyn and Catstye Cam

12 km ~6h 30m Hard

View route

Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

View route

Windermere west shore: Ash Landing to Wray and back

13.9 km ~4h 30m Moderate

View route

Tarn Hows Fast Route

4.1 km ~1h Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

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

Ambleside to Selside Pike Loop

A stunning circular route starting from Ambleside, this trail takes you through lush valleys and across the slopes leading to the summit of Selside Pike.

12.5 km ~4.5 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Simm Hewitt Nuttall Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

655m

2,149 ft

Prominence

36m

Coordinates

54.4931, -2.7879

NY490111

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a modest cairn and a visitors' register. For extra points, snap a selfie with the majestic backdrop of the surrounding fells.

Terrain & Geology

Rugged mountainous terrain with rocky paths and grassy knolls interspersed with patches of heather.

Selside Pike is predominantly composed of volcanic rocks from the Skiddaw group, featuring intriguing outcrops of andesite and tuff. The area's geological history reflects significant volcanic activity, which shaped the iconic landscapes we see today.

Views & Scenery

Breathtaking views of Windermere, the Kentmere Valley, and a panorama of the peaks including the Fairfield Horseshoe.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Selside' derives from Norse origins, meaning 'the side of the silt,' referring to the nearby river.

Historical Significance

The area is steeped in history, with numerous archaeological sites scattered throughout, hinting at ancient settlements.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is in Ambleside, offering multiple options including free roadside parking (with limited spaces) and paid car parks.

Public Transport

Frequent buses run from Windermere to Ambleside, providing an accessible route for outdoor enthusiasts. Check local services for updated schedules.

Nearby Facilities

Ambleside has several facilities, including cafes, shops, and toilets. Don’t miss the chance to sample a slice of homemade cake post-hike!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Uneven terrain with loose rocks, potential for sudden weather changes, keep an eye out for sheep wandering onto paths.

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 Selside Pike?

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

Are there other walkers around Selside Pike?

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 Selside Pike search or of course create your own walk for Selside Pike

Can I organise a walk to Selside Pike?

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 Selside Pike.

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 Selside Pike?

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 Selside Pike 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

Selside Pike location map

Grid reference: NY490111

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

High Street

High Street

828m

Place Fell

657m

Red Screes

779m

St Sunday Crag

841m

Fairfield

873m
See 5 more nearby hills