White Side

White Side

White Side rises to 863.2 metres on the Helvellyn range in the Eastern Fells. Summit record.

It sits between Raise to the north and Helvellyn Lower Man to the south, above Thirlmere and the Glenridding valley. Grassy western slopes contrast with steep crags and scree dropping east into Brown Cove and Kepple Cove. Landscape.

The summit

At NY 33780 16664, the summit is marked by a low, broken-down stone windshelter. This is also the Wainwright top. Looking south, Lower Man fills the skyline with Helvellyn to its left. White Side appears in Book One, The Eastern Fells, of Wainwright’s guides. Summit photograph and guidebook.

From Thirlspot by the Pony Route

Start beside the King’s Head at Thirlspot. Take the path through Thirlspot Farm and the fields, cross the water-race bridge, and climb the Pony Route above the intake wall. Pass the L-shaped ruined wall and keep left of Brown Crag. Beyond the col, take the path up White Side’s north-west slope. Steep scree leads towards the summit; the path becomes faint higher up.

Return to the col by the same path, then retrace the Pony Route past Brown Crag and the ruined wall. Cross the water race and return through the farm to Thirlspot. Photographic ascent guide.

Geology

The summit bedrock belongs to the Borrowdale Sill Suite, an Ordovician intrusive rock unit. A sill forms when magma enters existing rock layers and cools underground. These intrusions were emplaced during the volcanic activity that produced the Borrowdale Volcanic Group. Summit geology; BGS rock definition.

Access and parking

The A591 lay-by south of the King’s Head, around NY 316173, is a starting option. Check current signs and restrictions, keep entrances clear and take care beside the road. Return to the lay-by after reaching Thirlspot. Do not assume hotel or farm parking is available to non-customers. Parking location.

For a car-free visit, check current travel options to Thirlspot and plan your return journey before setting out.

Preparation and safety

This is a strenuous mountain walk. Carry a map and compass and know how to navigate when paths fade or cloud hides landmarks. Take food, water, waterproofs and warm layers. Check the mountain forecast, leave your route with someone and allow enough daylight for the descent. Wet rock and grass can be slippery. Stay well back from the eastern crags. Avoid exposed ground in strong winds or storms; snow and ice demand winter skills and equipment. Walking safety.