The Langdale Valley is one of the most beautiful areas of the Lake District, drawing in visitors all year round. Whether you’re an experienced hillwalker or prefer a gentler route, Langdale has a few routes for different abilities. Many of the area’s best-known routes are associated with Alfred Wainwright, who has inspired generations of walkers to explore the Lake District fells.
At Mill House Cottages, this month’s blog offers a guide to several Langdale walks. With a range of luxury holiday cottages in the Lake District, you can enjoy the outdoors and discover why this part of the country is so special.
One of the most distinctive and difficult peaks in the Langdale Pikes is Pike o’ Stickle. Standing at approximately 709 metres, the summit is known for its steep rocky slopes and breathtaking views.
The walk to Pike o’ Stickle is popular with those following Wainwright’s fell guide. The mountain can be approached from Great Langdale, with routes often starting near Old Dungeon Ghyll. As you climb towards the summit, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views across the Langdale Valley and surrounding fells.
The circular route for Pike o’ Stickle is estimated to take no less than 5 and a half hours for an experienced walker.
Be aware that the final climb is very steep and rocky.
For walkers who don’t want to commit to a full mountain circuit, Stickle Tarn is excellent. While it is not an official Wanwright fell, it is a section of a Wainwright walk that can lead you to Harrison Stickle. Nestled high beneath the Langdale Pikes, this mountain tarn is surrounded by rocky slopes and high peaks.
The route begins at Stickle Ghyll car park and follows a path alongside the stream. As you climb, you’ll see waterfalls, rock pools and rugged sections of mountainside. As you gain height, the view becomes spectacular.
Harrison Stickle is the highest of the Langdale Pikes. Standing at 736 metres, the fell is a firm favourite among walkers. Offering a challenging climb and spectacular views across Great Langdale, the walk requires a reasonable level of fitness.
The walk is often started near the New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel in Great Langdale. On a clear day, you can admire the rugged peaks and look down across the valley.
The steep, rocky paths can be slippery, so allow plenty of time for ascent and descent.
Loft Crag is one of Wainwright’s celebrated Lake District fells. Its position between Harrison Stickle and Pike o’ Stickle is ideal for walkers hoping to bag several summits in one trip. Although the summit is small, the views are breathtaking.
The paths around Loft Crag can be steep, rocky and loose. Therefore, it’s best suited to walkers who are comfortable with uneven terrain.
If you’re looking to book a luxury cottage break in the Lake District, take a look at our properties. For more information, contact us to help you start planning.
