Wansfell Pike
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Wansfell Pike

4.9
·141 reviews·Ambleside, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Wansfell Pike

Wansfell Pike

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.9
(141 reviews)

"You will be rewarded by sweeping views up the valley and across Lake Windermere."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summit Views

Summit Views

Wansfell Pike Summit

Panoramic vistas of Lake Windermere and surrounding fells await. Absolutely breathtaking!

Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall

Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall

Ambleside approach

A beautiful, cascading waterfall on the popular route up from Ambleside. A refreshing sight!

Troutbeck Village

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Ascent

Wansfell Pike offers rewarding views, but the climb can be steep. Consider starting early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. The loop from Ambleside via Stock Ghyll Force is popular, so an early start ensures a more peaceful experience. TikTok

Getting There & Around

Wansfell Pike is accessible without a car, with buses serving Ambleside. From Ambleside, you can start your hike directly. Planning your bus times is key for a smooth, car-free adventure. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late spring/early summer
Why
Lush greenery, pleasant temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light, fall colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

It do be like that #Hiking #hikingadventures #walking #mountains #wansfellpike #lakedistrictnationalpark
@holly_niamhsadventures
104.7K likes • 1.2M views

👟 Wear sturdy footwear

Paths can be steep and rocky, especially the ascent from Ambleside. Good grip is essential! TikTokReddit

💧 Pack water & snacks

Essential for any hike. Consider a stop at the cafe in Troutbeck if you're doing the loop. TikTok

Ambleside to Troutbeck hike via Wansfell pike 📌 Lake District National Park #ukhiking #lakedistrictnationalpark
@shewalksinengland
614 likes • 12.8K views
📍Wansfell Pike #thehikinggirly #girlsthathike #northyorkmoors #hikinginspo #hiketrailinspo #wainwright #wainwrightfells #wainwrightsummit #lakedistrict #lakedistrictnationalpark #nationalpark #munros #scotland #girlhikes #solohikes #fyp #foryourpage #mentalhealth #hiketok #trends #trending #glencoe #munro #peakdistrict #trail100 #eryvri #snowdonianationalpark #breconbeacons #breconbeaconsnational...
thehikinggirly
155 likes • 33.2K views

🗺️ Download offline maps

Mobile signal can be spotty. Having a map on your phone is a lifesaver. Instagram+1

🚗 Consider public transport

Buses to Ambleside make a car-free hike possible and easy. Instagram

A lovely midweek hike in the Lakes. 🇬🇧 Ambleside to Wansfell Pike ⛰️ to Troutbeck and back to Ambleside in an 11km loop. 🥾
taliena
11 likes • 371 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear sturdy footwear

Paths can be steep and rocky, especially the ascent from Ambleside. Good grip is essential! TikTokReddit

💧 Pack water & snacks

Essential for any hike. Consider a stop at the cafe in Troutbeck if you're doing the loop. TikTok

🗺️ Download offline maps

Mobile signal can be spotty. Having a map on your phone is a lifesaver. Instagram+1

🚗 Consider public transport

Buses to Ambleside make a car-free hike possible and easy. Instagram

📸 Capture the views

The summit offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.9
(141 reviews)

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. TikTokReddit

"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

Stunning summit views
Well-marked paths
Accessible from Ambleside

What People Dislike

Steep ascents

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. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are car parks in Ambleside and Troutbeck. The National Trust Townend car park is near Troutbeck. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. InstagramReddit+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Wansfell Pike is a natural landmark and part of the Lake District National Park, so there are no entry tickets required. TikTok

Yes, parking in Ambleside and Troutbeck typically incurs a fee. Check local signage for current rates. Instagram

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. TikTok

Stock Ghyll Force is on a public footpath and does not have an entrance fee. TikTok

Yes, Wansfell Pike is a dog-friendly walk. Ensure your dog is on a lead where required and always clean up after them. Instagram

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Wansfell Pike stands at approximately 488 meters (1,601 feet) above sea level. Instagram

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). InstagramReddit+1

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. Instagram+1

Yes, the paths are generally well-marked, especially the main routes from Ambleside and Troutbeck. InstagramReddit

You'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere, the surrounding fells, and the valleys. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTokInstagram+1

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. TikTok

The old post office cafe in Troutbeck is a well-known stop on the circular route. TikTok

The Mortal Man pub in Troutbeck is a popular choice for a post-hike pint and meal. Instagram

Ambleside offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets. Instagram

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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! TikTok+1

While drone photography can offer unique perspectives, always check current regulations for drone usage in national parks. Respect wildlife and other visitors. Instagram

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. TikTok

The summit itself provides the primary viewpoint. The path leading up from Ambleside also offers glimpses of the lake through the trees. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wansfell Pike can be a great family adventure! The route from Ambleside, with its Stock Ghyll Force waterfall, is particularly engaging for children. The steep sections are manageable for most kids with a bit of encouragement, and the views from the top are a fantastic reward. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

🚶 Solo Hikers

Wansfell Pike is an excellent choice for solo hikers looking for a rewarding and accessible challenge. The well-marked paths and the popularity of the routes mean you're unlikely to feel isolated, especially on the main trails. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🚗 Car-Free Explorers

Wansfell Pike is a prime destination for car-free exploration. Ambleside is well-served by public transport, making it easy to reach from nearby towns and cities. The Wansfell Pike route from Ambleside is a classic and can be completed entirely on foot after your bus journey. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Wansfell Pike Loop: A Car-Free Adventure

For those looking to experience Wansfell Pike without a car, the circular route starting and ending in Ambleside is ideal. This popular Wansfell Pike walk utilizes public transport links to Ambleside, making it an accessible option. The route typically involves ascending via the picturesque Stock Ghyll Force waterfall, a steep but rewarding climb. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram+1

Key Takeaways for a Car-Free Trip:
* Utilize buses to Ambleside (e.g., 555, 599). Instagram
* The loop offers varied scenery, from waterfalls to village charm.
* Plan your return bus times from Ambleside.

Wansfell Pike: A Wainwright's Delight

Wansfell Pike is recognized as one of Alfred Wainwright's 'Outlying Fells' in his influential guides to the Lake District. For fell walkers, ticking off a Wainwright is a significant achievement, and Wansfell Pike offers a relatively accessible option. Its Wansfell Pike Wainwright status draws many hikers seeking to complete their lists. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

* 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

Understanding the Wansfell Pike map and available routes is crucial for a successful hike. The most popular Wansfell Pike walking route is the circular path from Ambleside, which includes Stock Ghyll Force and Troutbeck. This Wansfell Pike route is approximately 10km and offers a diverse experience. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+1

* Popular Routes: Ambleside-Troutbeck loop (10km), Ambleside out-and-back (4km).
* Navigation Tools: Utilize walking apps and download offline maps for safety. Instagram

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