Helm Crag

Helm Crag is situated to the north of Grasmere. It is easily recognised by its distinctive summit rocks, nicknamed ‘The Lion and the Lamb’ and is one of the most recognised hills in the Lake District. It is a fairly short, steep and exciting walk, perfect for long light summer evenings or brisk sunny winter mornings when you only have a few hours to spare. “The virtues of Helm Crag have not been lauded enough. It gives an exhilarating little climb, a brief essay in real mountaineering, and, in a region where all is beautiful, it makes a notable contribution to the natural charms and attractions of Grasmere.” – Alfred Wainwright

Walk distance – 4.0 miles (6.4km)

Height climbed – 341 metres

1. Starting in the centre of Grasmere Village proceed up Easedale Road. Follow the road past the Youth Hostel and Goody Bridge over Easedale Beck.
2. Continue as the road bears right, then left and across the pasture to the small hamlet at the foot of Helm Crag, turn right into the rough lane signposted “Public Bridleway Far Easedale Helm Crag Footpath”.
3. At the top of the lane go through the gate and turn left. In 50m turn right onto the track signposted “Helm Crag”. Go through another gateway and bear first right, then left and up on the zigzag path. Join the path alongside the wall which ascends a flight of engineered steps.
4. At the top of the steps it takes a long zigzag, and has a new section of path. Climb to the col and at the cairn turn left ( the path now gets a little scrambly at times) and continue to the summit. Return by the route of ascent.

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