Lake District, England: Hiking Helvellyn
- That's How We Travel
- 12 hours ago
- 2 min read
Summary. This 7.3-mile hike can be quite challenging, especially if you encounter high winds and rain like we did. The total elevation gain is about 3,100 feet, which wasn't too difficult, but the ridge line is relentless when the winds increase. Despite this, the views from the top are stunning, and now that it's over, we look back on it more fondly as one of those wild adventures we had in the UK. After the hike, we enjoyed a peaceful evening in the charming town of Keswick, nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
[This blog is part of our 15-days in the British Isle trip].
Helvellyn Hike. We arrived early at the parking lot after reading reviews that parking can be limited. At 7am, we were nearly the first to arrive during our late May trip. The morning weather started with no rain and a light fog as we headed out on the trail.
The elevation profile of the hike is pretty much, straight up and then straight down. So fairly early into the high, the trail starts the slow slog up the mountain.
Reaching the top of the Ridgeline. As we began to reach the top of the ridgeline, the weather suddenly worsened. The rain began, accompanied by the wind, which whipped into a flurry of stinging rain that could almost knock you over if you weren't careful. Even so, reaching the top marker was still victorious, even if it required holding onto our hats!
From there, we continued along the ridgeline and were rewarded with these beautiful views.
Descending from the ridgeline and the mountain, the landscape transitioned back to creeks and forest. Eventually, the rain stopped as well. The final part of the hike is flat as you make your way back to the car lot. From here we drove back to our lodging in Keswick. All in all, the hike could have been more enjoyable without the crazy weather. BUT, of all the hikes we've done around the world, was this the Lake District's way of trying to be memorable?
Keswick. After our hike, we were famished. We made grilled sandwiches at our B&B before heading out on the town.
In Keswick, the rain returned. This time, we strolled with umbrellas and window shopped. Unfortunately, everything was closed that day because it was a bank holiday.
Dinner at The Pheasant Inn. Just around the corner from where we stayed was a traditional gastropub. We thoroughly enjoyed our dinner there, as the ambiance was warm and inviting, making it the perfect setting for a relaxing evening. The combination of rustic decor and friendly service created a welcoming atmosphere.
Comments