enjoy the view

NOTES

www.walkscene.co.uk

Striding Edge

Helvellyn
(from Patterdale)

Notes and points of interest

Glenridding - Lakeside village and steamer embarkation point for trips on Ullswater, this is a popular Lake District resort and is well provided with hotels and pubs. Parking is more expensive in Glenridding than in Patterdale, although Glenridding is a good alternative starting point for the walk if you are already staying there (set out towards Patterdale and pick op the route at Grizedale Bridge).

Hole in the Wall - Probably the best-known stile in the country, for that is all it is really. Hole in the Wall is a crossing point where several Helvellyn routes converge and pass through or over a stone wall.

Patterdale - a quiet village at the foot of Kirkstone Pass (one of Lakeland's most delightful road routes). A popular starting point for Helvellyn climbs (especially for those staying at the Youth Hostel) the village also has a hotel and several guest houses.

Striding Edge - Probably the most notorious ridge walk in Britain, Striding Edge is the arête surrounding one side of the cirque (corrie) containing Red Tarn. It is an exposed ridge, which becomes frightening and potentially dangerous in high winds. In calm weather it is merely challenging. For most of its length, the path runs alongside the ridge but, in a couple of sections, it is necessary to clamber over rock mounds that take you to the very top of the ridge.

Swirrel Edge - less challenging than its partner, Swirrel Edge is the opposite arête of the corrie. The path runs inside the ridge.

Ullswater - second most popular lake for cruising in the Lake District, Ullswater is particularly impressive because of the way the surrounding hills hem it in and are dramatically reflected in the water. Glenridding is the principle lakeside village.