Helvellyn
At 950 metres, Helvellyn is England’s third-highest mountain and one of the Lake District’s most popular walks. Its famous summit is reached by several routes, the most iconic being via Striding Edge - a dramatic narrow ridge offering a thrilling scramble with steep drops on either side. This route is best suited to experienced and confident walkers.
Helvellyn offers unforgettable views
For a gentler ascent, hikers can take the well-marked paths from Thirlmere, Glenridding, or Patterdale, with most routes taking 4-7 hours round trip. The summit rewards walkers with spectacular panoramic views over Ullswater, Red Tarn, and on clear days, as far as Scotland and the Yorkshire Dales.
Helvellyn is accessible year-round, but conditions can be severe in winter - ice, snow, and strong winds make proper gear and experience essential. Parking is available at Glenridding and Thirlmere, with public transport links from Penrith and Windermere.
Whether you take on the ridges or opt for a steady climb, Helvellyn offers unforgettable views and a classic Lake District adventure.
Nearby zip world locations
Windermere
9 miles away
Manchester
75 miles away
Betws-y-Coed
103 miles away
Penrhyn Quarry
103 miles away
Llechwedd
112 miles away
Tower Colliery
195 miles away
London
241 miles away
