
Wansfell Pike
A classic Lake District fell offering rewarding panoramic views of Windermere and surrounding fells, accessible via a scenic hike.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Wansfell Pike
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A classic Lake District fell offering rewarding panoramic views of Windermere and surrounding fells, accessible via a scenic hike.
"You will be rewarded by sweeping views up the valley and across Lake Windermere."

👟 Wear sturdy footwear
Paths can be steep and rocky, especially the ascent from Ambleside. Good grip is essential!
💧 Pack water & snacks
Essential for any hike. Consider a stop at the cafe in Troutbeck if you're doing the loop.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summit Views
Wansfell Pike Summit
Panoramic vistas of Lake Windermere and surrounding fells await. Absolutely breathtaking!

Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall
Ambleside approach
A beautiful, cascading waterfall on the popular route up from Ambleside. A refreshing sight!

Troutbeck Village
Eastern side of the loop
A charming village offering a peaceful descent or a stop for refreshments. The old post office cafe is a gem.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy footwear
Paths can be steep and rocky, especially the ascent from Ambleside. Good grip is essential!
💧 Pack water & snacks
Essential for any hike. Consider a stop at the cafe in Troutbeck if you're doing the loop.
🗺️ Download offline maps
Mobile signal can be spotty. Having a map on your phone is a lifesaver.
🚗 Consider public transport
Buses to Ambleside make a car-free hike possible and easy.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy footwear
Paths can be steep and rocky, especially the ascent from Ambleside. Good grip is essential!
💧 Pack water & snacks
Essential for any hike. Consider a stop at the cafe in Troutbeck if you're doing the loop.
🗺️ Download offline maps
Mobile signal can be spotty. Having a map on your phone is a lifesaver.
🚗 Consider public transport
Buses to Ambleside make a car-free hike possible and easy.
📸 Capture the views
The summit offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wansfell Pike for its breathtaking views over Lake Windermere and the rewarding nature of the hike. The well-marked paths and accessibility, especially from Ambleside, are frequently highlighted as positives. While the ascent can be steep, most find the effort well worth the stunning panoramas.
"All good walks are uphill, and this one is no exception. You will be rewarded by sweeping views up the valley and across Lake Windermere. The loop that goes up via the waterfall from Ambleside is steep but relative short and makes a walk back through Troutbeck all the more enjoyable as you know the hard bit is done. Highly recommend."
Chris Dale
"Easy to moderate. Short walk up from Ambleside but steep! Great view of Windermere from the top."
Aaron Faith
"Wansfell Pike is a fantastic hike with well-marked paths and stunning views over Lake Windermere."
Anwar Ali
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wansfell Pike is very accessible by public transport. Buses like the 555 and 599 serve Ambleside, which is a common starting point for the hike. From Ambleside, you can begin your walk directly.
Ambleside is a popular starting point, offering a route that includes Stock Ghyll Force waterfall. Troutbeck is another option, often used for the return leg of a loop.
Yes, there are car parks in Ambleside and Troutbeck. The National Trust Townend car park is near Troutbeck.
While Windermere is nearby, it's a significant distance to walk to the base of Wansfell Pike. It's more practical to take a bus or drive to Ambleside or Troutbeck first.
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate. The ascent from Ambleside via Stock Ghyll Force is steep but relatively short. The loop is around 10km and offers varied terrain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Wansfell Pike is a natural landmark and part of the Lake District National Park, so there are no entry tickets required.
Yes, parking in Ambleside and Troutbeck typically incurs a fee. Check local signage for current rates.
Wansfell Pike is accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor natural attraction. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Stock Ghyll Force is on a public footpath and does not have an entrance fee.
Yes, Wansfell Pike is a dog-friendly walk. Ensure your dog is on a lead where required and always clean up after them.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Wansfell Pike stands at approximately 488 meters (1,601 feet) above sea level.
Many enjoy the circular route from Ambleside via Stock Ghyll Force, up to Wansfell Pike, and then down to Troutbeck. This loop is around 10km. An out-and-back from Ambleside is shorter (approx. 4km).
The walk can take anywhere from 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on your pace, the route you choose, and how long you spend at the summit.
Yes, the paths are generally well-marked, especially the main routes from Ambleside and Troutbeck.
You'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere, the surrounding fells, and the valleys.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Ambleside has numerous cafes and restaurants. In Troutbeck, the old post office cafe is a popular spot, and The Mortal Man pub offers refreshments.
There are no food facilities at the summit itself. You'll need to plan your meals before or after your hike in Ambleside or Troutbeck.
The old post office cafe in Troutbeck is a well-known stop on the circular route.
The Mortal Man pub in Troutbeck is a popular choice for a post-hike pint and meal.
Ambleside offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
You can capture sweeping panoramic views of Lake Windermere, the fells, and the charming villages of Ambleside and Troutbeck. Don't forget shots of Stock Ghyll Force waterfall!
While drone photography can offer unique perspectives, always check current regulations for drone usage in national parks. Respect wildlife and other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures of the waterfall.
The summit itself provides the primary viewpoint. The path leading up from Ambleside also offers glimpses of the lake through the trees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the Wansfell Pike walk as an out-and-back from Ambleside to keep the distance shorter. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and make the waterfall a highlight of the journey. The village of Troutbeck offers a nice spot for a picnic or a treat on the way back if you opt for a loop.
🚶 Solo Hikers
The Wansfell Pike walk offers stunning views that are perfect for quiet contemplation. Whether you choose the loop or an out-and-back, the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit is immense. Remember to always inform someone of your hiking plans and carry essential safety gear.
🚗 Car-Free Explorers
Enjoy the scenic bus ride, and once in Ambleside, you can head straight for the trails. The circular route offers a complete day out, incorporating a waterfall, summit views, and a charming village, all without needing a car.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wansfell Pike Loop: A Car-Free Adventure
From the summit, the path leads down towards the charming village of Troutbeck. Here, you can find the historic old post office cafe for a well-deserved break or a hearty meal at The Mortal Man pub. The descent from Troutbeck back to Ambleside is generally more gradual, offering a pleasant end to the hike. This Wansfell Pike circular walk is a fantastic way to experience the diverse beauty of the Lake District.
Key Takeaways for a Car-Free Trip:
* Utilize buses to Ambleside (e.g., 555, 599).
* The loop offers varied scenery, from waterfalls to village charm.
* Plan your return bus times from Ambleside.
Wansfell Pike: A Wainwright's Delight
The Wansfell Pike height of 488 meters makes it a manageable climb, even for those new to fell walking. The summit provides excellent views, making the effort feel truly worthwhile. Many hikers appreciate that it's a 'Wainwright' that can be combined with other activities or enjoyed as a shorter outing.
* Wainwright Status: A popular peak for those completing Wainwright's guides.
* Accessibility: Considered an easier Wainwright, suitable for a wider range of abilities.
* Views: Rewarding panoramas that make the climb satisfying.
Navigating Wansfell Pike: Maps and Routes
For those seeking a shorter outing, an out-and-back walk from Ambleside to the summit and back is around 4km. Alternatively, starting from Troutbeck provides a different perspective. Many hikers use apps like OS Maps or Komoot to download GPX files for these routes, ensuring they have navigation support even without mobile signal.
* Popular Routes: Ambleside-Troutbeck loop (10km), Ambleside out-and-back (4km).
* Navigation Tools: Utilize walking apps and download offline maps for safety.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit