The smallest of three fells in the area, Wansfell Pike makes for a wonderful hike for lovers of Cumbrian countryside and the natural beauty it offers.
Wansfell Pike is relatively small but surrounded by deep valleys and neighbouring peaks that offer unrestricted views of the Lake District.
This is a six-mile route and it is recommended that you allow 4-5 hours to enjoy it fully. Please note that there are narrow lanes and steeply pitched paths to navigate, as well as hill tracks, bridleways and valley roads.
The Route
Start at the centre of Ambleside and travel down Stockghyll Lane which climbs sharply uphill. Pass the college entrance and continue east to find the footpath, approximately 250m along. Follow the pitched trail which will take you steeply south-east, to the summit rocks of Wansfell Pike. Just before you reach the top you will have to traverse some rocky ground, which you can either tackle head on or take to a route on the left or right.
Here you will be rewarded with wonderful views across the area and a chance to enjoy some truly unrestricted panoramas of the valleys surrounding the pile. On your descent, head east and wind down across open slopes before reaching a wall where the path splits. Keep left for 150 metres before reaching another wall and bend. This is Nanny Lane and you should follow it directly all the way down to Troutbeck.
Once you reach Troutbeck you can turn right onto the road and follow it south to the centre of the village. The return leg begins once you pass Troutbeck Post Office and head along Robin Lane. There is a little bit of a climb, but once you reach around 600m the gradient settles and you can remain in the same lane, turning north-west as it reaches a junction. Enjoy a pleasant descent down to Hol Beck, which is easily crossed, followed by another short climb.
Next, head to High Skelghyll. The marker of your final descent down to Ambleside and follow the path north-west through Skelghyll Woods and out on to Old Lake Road. This is a popular cycling route, so make sure to be mindful and once you reach the lane. Which leads north to the A591, where you can reach the heart of Ambleside.
Recommended For …
This is a moderately difficult walk which combines a few tricky trails and steep slopes. More experienced hikers and dogs should have no trouble following the route to Wansfell Pike, which is easily accessible from our Lake District holiday cottages.
