If you were looking for a quintessential Lake District view, it would probably be that of Grasmere from the southern side of its lake. From here you'll be struck by Helm Crag, a peak that dominates the surrounding area and is perfectly manicured with dry stone walls, fields and the traditional buildings of Lakeland.
"Helm Crag may well be the best-known of all Lakeland Fells and possibly even the best-known hill in the country.... Indeed, the whole fell, although of small extent is unusually interesting; its very appearance is challenging; its sides are steep, rough and craggy; its top bristles; it looks irascible, like a shaggy terrier in a company of sleek foxhounds"
Alfred Wainwright
From a distance it looks a lot bigger than it is, possibly because from most viewpoints in Grasmere it looks like a solitary fell. But as you get closer, you realise it is a steep but easily achievable climb. It’s definitely one of our favourite easy walks in the Lake District.
Helm Crag Height & Distance
The hike to the summit of Helm Crag is 3.3km long and around 337m in height. Whilst it isn't one of the highest or steepest climbs, you'll feel it in your legs at the end of the hike!
It took us about two hours (return) from the centre of Grasmere to complete the hike. The path is in pretty good condition throughout with only a small section of scrambling - which is fairly straightforward.
The hike up Helm Crag
The Wainwright Route
The hike to the top of Helm Crag is one where Wainwright doesn't hide his feelings: take the route from Grasmere town.
His guide only discusses this route and he sticks his colours to the mast by stating "This is one of the few hills where ascent and descent by the same route is recommended".
The route starts from the centre of Grasmere, making parking easy (fees apply).
Walking towards Easedale Road, you'll soon see National Trust signs followed by signs for Helm Crag. The track takes you to the Lancrigg Hotel, through the grounds to the forest.
We'd also recommend following Wainwright's recommendation in doing this in the late afternoon, heading to the top for sunset. It is short enough to not worry about walking back in the dark and the light at this time of day is perfect.
Despite visiting during the busy August summer holidays we only encountered five other people at this time of day, and all but one were heading in the opposite direction. This really added to our enjoyment of the walk, feeling like you had escaped the crowds and entered the wilds.
Helm Crag Ridge Walk
After the forest the path opens up and gets a lot steeper. Following a dry stone wall, the start of the trail has a long section of stone steps before the track takes a sharp turn left.
From here the path continues uphill, but is a lot shallower and zig zags until you reach this view.
It's fair to say that this is one of the best views you'll get in the Lake District, looking back on Grasmere, the lake and surrounding fells. In the golden glow of the late afternoon it is a stunning place to be.
From this point you'll soon be at the summit of one of our favourite walks in the whole of the Lake District.
Helm Crag Scramble
Just before the summit is a small but relatively easy scramble. This isn't as bad as the one on Catbells, but it is enough to get you thinking.
The scramble section lasts for about 100 metres and shouldn't put you off the walk. It is neither steep nor difficult to navigate. The most exposed section can be avoided entirely by taking the path down to the left of it (you can't miss it).
After this you'll see the lion and the lamb, and then the Howitzer - the true summit of Helm Crag.
Then it is just a simple walk across to the Howitzer to complete the walk. We'd recommend turning west and checking out the sun setting on the Easdale Tarn. The sky turned a beautiful golden colour just over the fells and valley in front of us, making it the perfect end to the walk.
The descent is quicker than the climb and it won't be long before you're back in town. If you only have a couple of hours to spare, this is the perfect short walk in the Lake District, which still provides incredible views and a good leg stretch.
Read next: the most beautiful places to visit in the Lake District
Getting to Helm Crag
By car and parking
The most convenient car park for the walk - at The Lancrigg - does come with a fee. It’s £6 for all day parking. However, it’s redeemable when purchasing from their lunch menu. Unfortunately we didn’t realise this beforehand, but next time we’d definitely do that.
Parking here also gives you access to the shortest route up to Helm Crag. My advice is, if you want a long but super day in the Lakes, do both walks in one day and have lunch at The Lancrigg inbetween!
If you don’t want to pay for parking, you need to start further down Easedale road. Much of the road does not allow parking and the bits that do fill up early. Opting for free parking will add on about 1 mile (ish) to your walk.
If you plan on doing the Wainwright Route in its entirety, then you’ll start from the centre of Grasmere. There’s plenty of parking at Redbank and Stock Lane. As these are operated by the council, it may be included in a parking pass if you are staying in a cottage. Otherwise you can find the latest charges by clicking here.
Getting to Helm Crag public transport
The best way to get to the trailhead for Helm Crag - if you’re coming from Ambleside or Windermere - is to hop on the 599 or 555 bus. This will take 30 minutes from Ambleside and just under an hour from Windermere.
You can get the 555 from Keswick to Grasmere, which departs from Booths and takes about 45 minutes.
All buses will drop you in the centre of Grasmere, meaning you’ll have to add another 0.8 miles (about 20 minutes) onto your walk.
Packing suggestions for walking in the Lake District
Having the right gear can make a huge difference, especially in the Lake District. It can rain or turn cold at any time of year, so we highly recommend packing some for all seasons!
Here’s what we pack and have relied upon for years:
Good Rain Jacket: North Face This is an essential item in the Lakes as it can rain at any time! This jacket from North Face is designed to keep you dry but also comfortably warm (many rain jackets will make you feel like you’re in a sauna).
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Day Pack: Osprey Talon 22 (we’ve owned this for years). It is simultaneously lightweight, hard-wearing and comfortable, which helps with any adventure.
Hiking Boots: Merrell Moab (for men and women). We’ve both used these for over three years and they just keep going.
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Trekking poles: We’ve used Black Diamond for years as they are light, solid and durable.
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Reusable water bottle: To avoid single-use plastic.
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Have you hiked Helm Crag? Are you planning a trip to the Lake District? Let us know in the comments below!
