wansfell pike open access walk...
Wansfell open access walk...
Starting point: Park in Ambleside's main car park at the northern end of the town GR373046
Map: OS Explorer OL7
Distance: 9km
Ascent: 474m (1543ft)
Time: 3 hours
Public transport: Ambleside is on the 555 Service route between Lancaster and Carlisle
A circuit of Wansfell Pike which provides stunning panoramas of the Lake District. A 1:25000 OS map and navigation ability will be required.
Walk through the village and turn left beyond the Salutation Hotel to join Stockghyll Lane. After almost 1km cross the cattle grid and continue into open countryside. A short way along, take the signposted gate onto ‘Open Access Land'. Join the path and continue to a footbridge over the stream. Cross the bridge and move out onto the open fell. The path continues to a wall and passes through a gap. Go on up, more steeply, until you reach the top with its spectacular views.
Climb the stile over the fence and follow the path. Pass through a gate and turn right to walk beside the wall. Continue to and go through the next gate and follow the lane between two dry stone walls for 1km. Where the track swings left, go through a walkers' gate beside a field gate on your right, and follow the distinct path. Go through the next gate, across a stream and continue across another beck.
Follow the track as it heads round to the left, then go through a further two gates to cross a footbridge over Hol Beck. Bear right to go through another gate and climb gently uphill in the direction of Ambleside. Pass between High Skelghyll and its outbuildings. The path heads left and begins a steep descent. Continue on the wide track where it becomes tarmac and descend to a T-junction where you turn right. Remain on the road until it joins the main road and head back through the town to the car park.
Route description provided by LDNPA, Murley Moss, Oxenholme Road Kendal, Cumbria LA9 7RL
Tel: 01539 724555 hq@lake-district.gov.uk
