NY2801 : Quick, before it disappears!

Wetherlam

763m Elevation
146m Prominence
England Country
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NY2801 : Quick, before it disappears!

Karl and Ali Photo source

Explore routes near Wetherlam

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

Tarn Hows Fast Route

4.1 km ~1h Moderate

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Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

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Scafell Pike via Brown Tonge and Hollow Stones

8.1 km ~4h Hard

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Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

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Route planning notes

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

Wetherlam via the Tilberthwaite Fells

Starting from the Tilberthwaite car park, this route takes you through the old quarry workings before ascending through Tilberthwaite Gill. It follows a steep, rugged path to reach Wetherlam's summit, offering expansive views of the Coniston Fells. The descent can be made via the same path or by looping back through Birk Fell.

8.5 km ~4 hours Moderate

Wetherlam via the Coppermines Valley

This classic route begins at the village of Coniston, ascending through the historic Coppermines Valley. From here, the path climbs steadily up to Wetherlam Edge, a rocky and exhilarating ridge walk to the summit. The descent can be made via Levers Water and Boulder Valley, completing a scenic circular walk.

10.5 km ~5 hours Challenging

Wetherlam and Swirl How Circular via Prison Band

This route starts from Coniston and includes a full ridge walk covering both Wetherlam and Swirl How. After ascending Wetherlam via the Coppermines Valley, continue the ridge walk over Swirl How via Prison Band, before descending back into the valley. A longer and more strenuous option, but highly rewarding for ridge-walk enthusiasts.

13 km ~6 hours Hard

Wetherlam from Little Langdale

This less-travelled route starts at Little Langdale, taking you through scenic farmland and past the historic Cathedral Quarry. The walk then ascends through Greenburn Valley to reach Wetherlam's summit. The return follows a similar path, providing a quieter alternative to more popular routes.

9 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Wetherlam and Black Sails Circuit

This route starts at Coniston and ventures up to Wetherlam via Black Sails, offering a quieter and slightly steeper climb. Descend via Birk Fell for a circular route that combines rugged paths and stunning views of Coniston Water and the surrounding fells.

11 km ~5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Simm Hewitt Nuttall Submarilyn Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

763m

2,503 ft

Prominence

146m

Coordinates

54.4005, -3.0980

NY288011

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL6N

At the Summit

The summit features a large prominent cairn and a small rock shelter, perfect for snacking while enjoying the magnificent views.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some boggy patches near the foothills.

Wetherlam is primarily composed of volcanic rocks, specifically Andesite, which contributes to its rugged terrain. These rocks formed from ancient lava flows that now create a dramatic landscape.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of Coniston Water, the surrounding fells including the Langdale Pikes, and in the distance, the peaks of the Yorkshire Dales.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Wetherlam is believed to derive from the Old Norse 'Vethe', meaning 'wet place', highlighting the boggy nature of the surrounding areas.

Historical Significance

Wetherlam has been a popular hiking destination for generations and is part of the rich lore and beauty of the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the Coniston Village car park (pay and display) which is approximately 5 km from the foot of the trail.

Public Transport

There are bus services from nearby towns such as Ambleside and Windermere that stop in Coniston.

Nearby Facilities

There are cafes, pubs, and public toilets available in Coniston, offering a great place to rest before or after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of steep drops near the summit and wet, slippery paths, especially after rainfall. Fog can roll in quickly, reducing visibility.

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 Wetherlam?

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

Are there other walkers around Wetherlam?

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 Wetherlam search or of course create your own walk for Wetherlam

Can I organise a walk to Wetherlam?

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 Wetherlam.

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 Wetherlam?

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 Wetherlam 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: NY288011

View on OpenStreetMap

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