NY3316 : Path to Helvellyn

White Side

863m Elevation
43m Prominence
England Country
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NY3316 : Path to Helvellyn

Bill Boaden Photo source

Explore routes near White Side

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

Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

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Striding Edge, Helvellyn and Catstye Cam

12 km ~6h 30m Hard

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Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

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Bannerdale Crags from Mungrisdale Wainwright

6.9 km ~2h Moderate

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Route planning notes

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

Watendlath to White Side

A scenic route from the charming hamlet of Watendlath, ascending through lush valleys and rocky terrain to the summit.

7.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Sticks Pass

A less trodden path that starts near Thirlmere, offering solitude and stunning views as it winds up to the summit.

6 km ~2.5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Simm Hewitt Nuttall Wainwright Birkett High Hills of Britain Synge Fellranger

Elevation

863m

2,832 ft

Prominence

43m

Coordinates

54.5409, -3.0251

NY337166

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn and stunning views over the surrounding hills. Keep an eye out for the occasional cheeky raven who thinks he owns the place!

Terrain & Geology

Predominantly rocky with patches of grass and the odd boggy section to keep you on your toes.

Primarily comprising volcanic rock from the Borrowdale Volcanic Group, White Side's geology showcases striking lava flows and ash deposits, offering a glimpse into the explosive history of the region.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, gaze upon the majestic Helvellyn, the shimmering waters of Thirlmere, and the rolling hills of the Lake District.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'White Side' is believed to originate from the light-coloured rocks and scree that characterise its flanks.

Historical Significance

The area is rich in history, with connections to early climbing expeditions and significant wildlife habitats.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is ample parking at Watendlath and at the base of Sticks Pass. Arrive early during peak times as it can get busy!

Public Transport

Buses run to Borrowdale from Keswick, which is approximately nine miles away. Be sure to check schedules as they can be infrequent.

Nearby Facilities

Watendlath has a small café offering refreshments, and there are public toilets located near the car park.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of slippery rocks, especially when wet. Sudden weather changes can also occur, so always be prepared!

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 White Side?

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

Are there other walkers around White Side?

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 White Side search or of course create your own walk for White Side

Can I organise a walk to White Side?

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 White Side.

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 White Side?

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 White Side 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: NY337166

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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