Helvellyn, the third-highest peak in England, is a bucket-list hike for anyone who loves jaw-dropping views and a bit of heart-pounding adventure. Naturally, I decided to tackle this beauty with all the grace of a seasoned mountaineer—by wearing Converse. Yep, I learned the hard way that looking cool doesn’t equate to gripping steep ridges. But hey, I survived, and I’ve got some hilarious memories to share, along with practical tips on how you can tackle Helvellyn via Striding Edge without the mishaps (and maybe without losing your car keys in a café toilet, like I did).
Starting Point: Glenridding Village Parking
Kick off your adventure in the picturesque village of Glenridding, where you’ll find ample pay-and-display parking. Now, here’s my pro tip—double-check you’ve got everything before you set off (because I didn’t, and my car keys spent an hour enjoying the inside of a café loo). Once you’ve secured your belongings, the path leading out of Glenridding will set you off on the right track—pun intended!
Parking Coordinates: Glenridding Car Park - CA11 0PD Google Maps Coordinates: 54.5449° N, -2.9495° W
The Route: Mires Beck to the ‘Hole in the Wall’
The journey begins gently, winding its way up Mires Beck. It’s a peaceful stretch, offering beautiful views of Ullswater—a perfect warm-up and a great time to start doubting your life choices (like me, when I realised Converse were a horrible idea). As you get into the swing of things, you’ll eventually reach the iconic ‘Hole in the Wall’. It’s the perfect spot to pause, snack, and mentally prepare yourself for Striding Edge. Chocolate bars help—trust me.
Striding Edge: The Thrill (and Slight Panic) of the Ridge
Ah, Striding Edge—the reason you came, and possibly the reason you question everything. This rocky, narrow ridge is the stuff of hiking legends, and it definitely lives up to the hype. I found myself scrambling over jagged rocks with steep drops on both sides, all while questioning why my feet had chosen Converse for the day.
Pro Tip:There are two ways to handle Striding Edge—bravely traverse the top ridge for the full thrill, or take the lower path to the right for a less exposed but still exhilarating experience. Either way, you’ll get stunning views of Red Tarn below and the peaks around you. Just keep your eyes on the trail and maybe not on your shoelaces (learned that the hard way, too).
Snack Spots Along the Ridge
You’ll definitely need to fuel up as you tackle Striding Edge. If you’re lucky enough to find a flat, less nerve-wracking spot, take a breather and soak in the incredible views of Ullswater. There’s something oddly magical about enjoying a sandwich while dangling on the edge of the world (just don’t drop your lunch—those rocks are unforgiving).
The Summit of Helvellyn: King (or Queen) of the Mountain
After surviving Striding Edge (seriously, go you!), the final ascent to Helvellyn’s summit is a breeze. The summit itself is a large, flat expanse with spectacular views, and you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world. At 950 meters above sea level, you’ve earned that victory snack—and that celebratory selfie.
There’s also a crosswind shelter up top, great for shielding yourself from the elements or catching a quick break. Here’s where I laughed at my shoe choice, realized how tired my feet were, and finally admitted: next time, I’m wearing boots.
Descending: Swirral Edge (Less Intense, Still Fun)
To complete your epic loop, descend via Swirral Edge. It’s a bit scrambly, but less exposed than Striding Edge, so you’ll breathe easier. Plus, the Red Tarn below makes for a great final pit stop if the weather’s nice. Kick back, snap a few more pictures, and bask in the glory of your accomplishment (assuming you’re still on speaking terms with your knees by now).
Retracing Your Steps: Back to Glenridding
The adventure may be winding down, but your legs will thank you for retracing your steps back to Glenridding. Take your time, reflect on your triumph, and if you’re me—double-check you have your car keys before leaving the café. At this point, you’ve earned every bit of the post-hike relaxation that awaits you!
Pro Tips for a Successful Helvellyn Hike (from Someone Who Learned the Hard Way)
Footwear Matters: Let me repeat—don’t wear Converse. Seriously. Invest in proper hiking boots with good grip, because rocks don’t care about your aesthetic.
Pack the Essentials: Bring water, snacks, a map, compass, and some layers. The weather in the Lake District can be as unpredictable as my choice of footwear.
Weather Check: The weather up here is fickle. If it looks dicey, maybe pick another day for the ridge. Striding Edge + wind = nope.
Stay Calm: Striding Edge may look terrifying, but slow and steady wins the race. If I can make it over in Converse with minimal tears, you’ll be just fine.
Parking: Arrive early to snag a good spot in Glenridding. Otherwise, you’ll be hiking to the hike.
In Conclusion: A Hike Worth Every Challenge
Helvellyn via Striding Edge isn’t just a hike—it’s an adventure full of breathtaking moments, challenging scrambles, and unforgettable views. Whether you’re crossing the ridge like a seasoned pro or (like me) winging it in Converse, the experience is something you’ll treasure forever.
So lace up your proper hiking boots this time, pack those snacks, and get ready for an unforgettable journey. And remember, even if you find your car keys in a café toilet, at least you’ll have a great story to tell.
Happy hiking!
Ready to conquer one of the most iconic hikes in the Lake District? My detailed Helvellyn via Striding Edge guide is here to help you tackle this epic adventure like a pro. From the best parking spots and route tips to snack breaks and navigating the thrilling Striding Edge, this guide has everything you need. Download it now, pack your hiking boots, and get ready for a day of adventure and stunning views!
For those looking to explore even more of the Lake District’s breathtaking landscapes, I highly recommend The Lake District: High Level and Fell Walks by Cicerone. With 30 of the best fell walks, including some of the highest mountains in England, this guide is perfect for adventurers wanting to experience the beauty of the fells at every level. Grab your copy here and get ready to dive into some of the finest walking routes the Lake District has to offer!
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