NY1503 : Walkers enjoying the view from Whin Rigg

Whin Rigg (Wasdale)

537m Elevation
59m Prominence
England Country
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NY1503 : Walkers enjoying the view from Whin Rigg

Ian Greig Photo source

Explore routes near Whin Rigg (Wasdale)

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

Scafell Pike via Brown Tonge and Hollow Stones

8.1 km ~4h Hard

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Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

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Tarn Hows Fast Route

4.1 km ~1h Moderate

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Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

View route

Route planning notes

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

Wasdale Head Walk

A popular route starting from Wasdale Head leading directly towards the summit, offering scenic views and moderate inclines.

7.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Dodd Dewey Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

537m

1,762 ft

Prominence

59m

Coordinates

54.4202, -3.3099

NY151035

OS Map

89

Explorer: OL6N

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a small stone cairn, providing a fine spot for a well-deserved rest and a photo opportunity against a stunning backdrop.

Terrain & Geology

The terrain is a mix of rocky paths and grassy slopes with the occasional boggy section ideal for a little adventure (or mischief).

Whin Rigg is primarily composed of volcanic rock with trachyte characteristics, formed during the 450 million-year-old Ordovician period. The rocky structure provides an intriguing insight into the geological history of the Lake District.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, expect breathtaking views of Wast Water, Scafell Pike, and the surrounding peaks of the Lake District. On a clear day, you may even spot the Irish Sea!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Whin' is derived from the Old English for gorse or furze, indicating the vegetation likely found in the area.

Historical Significance

Whin Rigg has been a popular hiking destination for generations, offering a quieter alternative to the more frequented peaks like Scafell Pike.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at Wasdale Head. The car park can fill up quickly during peak season, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service is the 5B from Ravenglass to Wasdale Head, which runs a few times a day, but check the schedule as options are limited.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities on the mountain itself, but the Wasdale Head Inn offers food and drink, making it a great place for a post-hike pint.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of loose stones on paths, especially in wet conditions, and the boggy sections can easily claim a boot or two if you're not careful.

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 Whin Rigg (Wasdale)?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Whin Rigg (Wasdale) through the maps

Are there other walkers around Whin Rigg (Wasdale)?

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 Whin Rigg (Wasdale) search or of course create your own walk for Whin Rigg (Wasdale)

Can I organise a walk to Whin Rigg (Wasdale)?

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 Whin Rigg (Wasdale).

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 Whin Rigg (Wasdale)?

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 Whin Rigg (Wasdale) 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: NY151035

View on OpenStreetMap

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 Scafell

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 Scafell Pike

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 Great Gable

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