Wansfell Pike
Good walks are even better shared.
NY3904 : A walk over Wansfell Pike [25]
Michael Dibb Photo source
Explore routes near Wansfell Pike
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Tarn Hows Fast Route
View route
Striding Edge, Helvellyn and Catstye Cam
View route
Helvellyn via Striding Edge
View route
Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Wansfell Pike from Ambleside
This popular route begins in the bustling town of Ambleside, leading hikers up through woodland before ascending towards the rocky summit. Enjoy a steady climb with plenty of opportunities to stop and appreciate the stunning views.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
View all
Photo could not load
NY3904 : A walk over Wansfell Pike [25]
Michael Dibb
Photo could not load
NY3904 : A walk over Wansfell Pike [27]
Michael Dibb
Photo could not load
NY3904 : Beginning the descent of Wansfell Pike
Bill Boaden
Photo could not load
NY3904 : Low cloud on Wansfell
DS Pugh
Photo could not load
NY3904 : On Wansfell Pike
Michael Graham
Photo could not load
NY3904 : Summit of Wansfell Pike
Chris Denny
Photo could not load
NY3904 : Looking south from Wansfell Pike
David Pickersgill
Photo could not load
NY3904 : Admiring the view
DS Pugh
Photo could not load
NY3904 : Buried-block trig point on Wansfell Pike
Gareth James
NY3904 : Steep path up Wansfell Pike
Peter S
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
484m
1,589 ft
Prominence
31m
Coordinates
54.4293, -2.9354
NY394041
OS Map
90
Explorer: OL7N
At the Summit
The summit is topped with a prominent trig point, offering stunning panoramic views that stretch across the surrounding peaks of the Lake District.
Terrain & Geology
Wansfell Pike is primarily composed of volcanic rock, particularly andesite, indicative of its fiery origins. The area also features a mix of limestone and sandstone, providing a glimpse into the geological history of the Lake District.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of Windermere, the Langdale Pikes, and the distant Helvellyn range. On clear days, even as far as the Isle of Man can be spotted!
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Wansfell' is derived from the Old Norse 'Wansfell', meaning 'hill of the Wans', referring to the River Rothay which flows nearby.
Historical Significance
Wansfell Pike is not only a popular hiking destination but also historically significant for its links to early tourism in the Lake District, drawing nature enthusiasts for centuries.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Ambleside is the nearest town with plenty of parking options, including multiple pay-and-display car parks. Arrive early, as spaces can fill up quickly, especially during the summer months!
Public Transport
Regular bus services run to Ambleside from nearby towns like Windermere and Grasmere.
Nearby Facilities
Ambleside offers a range of facilities including cafes, restaurants, public toilets, and shops. A perfect place to warm up with a cuppa after your hike!
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Beware of slippery paths, particularly in wet conditions. Also, be cautious around rocky outcrops and steep drops near the summit.
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 Wansfell Pike?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Wansfell Pike through the maps
Are there other walkers around Wansfell 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 Wansfell Pike search or of course create your own walk for Wansfell Pike
Can I organise a walk to Wansfell 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 Wansfell 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 Wansfell 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 Wansfell 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
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: NY394041
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
No comments yet. Be the first.