Favourite Spring Walks
Spring walks in the Lakes are high up on our to-do list. Finally waking up from winter slumbers, the...
Renowned for its rugged landscape, it’s no surprise that these Lake District mountains are amongst some of the highest mountains in England.
Whether you’re in search of a challenging expedition or a leisurely hike to soak in the spectacular scenery, you’re sure to find your perfect peak here.
We’ve compiled a handy list containing 7 Lake District mountains that are worth the hike. Keep reading to learn more…
Use our quick links below to jump to your favourite Lake District mountain:
One of the highest fells in the Lake District, the Old Man of Coniston makes for a relatively challenging hike.
This Lake District mountain takes its name from the nearby town of Coniston and glistening lake of Coniston Water. The highest peak in the Furness Fells, the Old Man of Coniston is a much-loved outdoor adventure.
The hike begins at the pay-and-display car park located at the base of the fell before beginning the climb over Brown Pike.
Rugged, rocky terrain can be felt underfoot, with steep inclines in places along the way.
A tower of rocks are stacked at the summit, marking the highest point of the fell. From here, hikers are awarded with far-reaching views across the rolling countryside, stretching toward the Langale Pikes.
Distance: 6.2km
Time: 3- 4 hours
Height: 802 metres
Starting Point: Coniston Old Man & Coppermines Car Park
Route Details: The Old Man of Coniston Route
The third highest mountain in England, Helvellyn is one of the Lake District most popular walks. Considered a moderately difficult hike, this Lake District mountain may be better suited to the more seasoned climbers.
Thrill-seekers flock in their thousands to tackle the Striding Edge route and the Swirral Edge route. These rocky, knife-edge ridges involve scrambling and can be treacherous in poor weather.
If you’re brave enough to tackle the climb, you’re rewarded with truly breathtaking views from the top. Soak in the sights of Red Tarn, Ullswater and Thirlmere.
Thirlmere is the easiest and fastest route to the summit. Starting at the pay-and-display car park at Swirls, the path ascends the shoulder of the mountain to its peak.
Whichever path you follow, you can be sure to enjoy an adventurous day of activitiy on this mountain in the Lake District.
Distance: 15km
Time: 5 hours
Height: 950 metres
Starting Point: Swirls Car Park
Route Details: Helvellyn from Thirlmere Route
One of the shortest on our list of mountains in the Lake District, what Catbells lacks in height it makes up for in enjoyment.
Easy to climb and simple to navigate, most trails to the summit of this Lake District mountain are suitable for beginners.
The Catbells & Derwentwater Lakeshore trail is amongst the most popular walking routes. A scenic journey, the trail climbs to the summit of Catbells before looping back along the shores of Derwentwater.
Jaw-dropping views can be seen along every step of the way, providing a magical backdrop for a photo opportunity. See if you can identify the peaks of Skiddaw and Causey Pike!
This Lake District mountain is easy to reach, with the Keswick Launch traveling across Derwentwater to Hawes End Landing. This way you can experience the best of both land and water.
Distance: 5.7km
Time: 2-4 hours
Height: 451 metres
Starting Point: Hawes End Landing Stage
Route Details: Catbells & Derwentwater Lakeshore Route
This Lake District mountain sits amongst the Scafell chain, in the most northern position.
Climbers of Great End typically use the mountain as a path leading to Scafell Pike, however, it is a rewarding hike in and of itself.
This impressive mountain towers over Sprinkling Tarn, reflecting a mirror-like image of the mountain in all its glory. Along with the glistening waters of the tarn, views from the top of the mountain stretch as far as Lake Windermere and the Langdale Pikes.
One of our favourite Great End walking routes begins at Seathwaite car park, passing through Seathwaite Farm and over the River Derwent.
A series of rocky steps and steep, craggy slopes make their way to the summit, where the East cairn marks the top of the peak.
Distance: 11.4km
Time: 6-7 hours
Height: 910 metres
Starting Point: Seathwaite Car Park
Route Details: Great End From Seathwaite Route
Sitting at 931 metres, Skiddaw is the sixth highest mountain in England. Just north of Keswick, this Lake District mountain offers a change of pace to visitors of the bustling market town.
Skiddaw is considered the “perfect mountain”, owing to the steep flanks and flowing gills that make up its smooth slopes.
Set apart from the majority of the mountains in the Lake District, you’re rewarded with magical views from its summit. Expect to see the rural delights of the Vale of Derwent.
The Jenkins Hill Path is the most popular route to follow. Starting in the heart of Keswick, you can make use of the local amenities to stock up on refreshments to help fuel your expedition!
The trail climbs Jenkins Hill, past Little Man and onto the summit ridge of Skiddaw. A short hike further, a summit cairn marks the top of the peak.
Be mindful to check the weather before your ascent, as snow and strong winds are likely at the top of this Lake District mountain.
Distance: 16.1km
Time: 5-6 hours
Height: 931 metres
Starting Point: Moot Hall Keswick
Route Details: Jenkin Hill Path
Famed as the highest mountain in England, a hike up Scafell Pike is not for the faint of heart. Dominating the skyline of the National Park, this Lake District mountain sits at a staggering 978 metres tall.
367 metres shorter than Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, Scafell Pike forms the English leg of the National Three Peak Challenge.
There are a number of routes leading to the summit, each varying in difficulty and terrain. A moderate fitness level is recommended.
The Wasdale Path is the most well-trodden, stretching 6 miles up and down. Expect a steep, rocky ascent, with a climb to reach the summit itself.
One of the Lake Districts favourite hikes, our list wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Scafell Pike.
Distance: 9.6km
Time: 3-4 hours
Height: 978 metres
Starting Point: Wasdale Head Car Park
Route Details: The Wasdale Path
This popular Lake District mountain takes its name from its triangular, gable-like apperance from the direction of Wasdale.
Great Gable is situated between the pint-sized hamlets of Wasdale Head and Seathwaite, in the heart of the National Park.
A variation of trails wind their way to the summit, each more challenging than the last. The Breast Path is considered the easiest route to follow, with a belt of crags and stone-pitched slopes leading to the top.
Those looking for a more challenging hike may prefer the Great Gable Circular. Stetching over 16 kilometres, the route begins and ends at Honister Pass.
Those up for the challenge will ascend Fleetwith Pike, Haystacks, Kirk Fell, Great Gable, Green Gable, Brandreth and Grey Knotts along the way. Be sure to come prepared, as the Great Gable Circular route typically takes over 7 hours to complete.
Distance: 5km
Time: 2-3 hours
Height: 899 metres
Starting Point: Wasdale Head Green
Route Details: The Breast Path
Traversing such heights can come with their own difficulties, and the Lake District mountain weather can be one of them.
It’s impossible to guess the weather, however, the Met Office Lake District mountain weather forecast can give a good indication.
We recommend packing all of the essentials to cover yourself for all eventualities. Waterproofs, protective eyewear, warm layers and sensible walking boots are a must.
Lace up your walking boots and head out on and outdoor adventure to one of these Lake District mountains.
Browse our wonderful collection of holiday cottages in the Lake District and book your ideal getaway!
If hiking is your kind of thing, give our ultimate guide to the Langdale Pikes a read ahead of your visit! And for more wonderful ways to spend your time, take a look at our guide on what’s on in cumbria!
Images courtesy of : Ian Taylor – (CC BY-SA 2.0); K A – (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Hello, I'm Lizi, and I joined the team in May 2021. My favourite staycation destinations include Cornwall, Northumberland, and as ...
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