The approach to Striding Edge can be done from either the village of Glenirdding or Patterdale. Both villages have plenty of parking options as well as places to stay and post walk pub options. We tend to start our circuit from Glenridding.

​

Grade:Moderate with exposed scrambling on Striding Edge  

Terrain: Rough Ground  Duration: 6 Hours

Route Stats: Miles: 7 Ascent: 930m

​

From Glenridding, there are several ways to reach the start of Striding Edge, but we’ll typically follow either the well-defined Mires Beck route or the quieter, more secluded path via Lanty’s Tarn.

This route is front-loaded in terms of difficulty, with the majority of the day’s ascent completed within the first hour and a half. The effort is soon rewarded, however, with fantastic views back over Ullswater, often alive with sailing boats, cruise vessels, and kayakers.

As the gradient eases, a short but worthwhile detour can be made to the summit of Birkhouse Moor (718m). From here, a gentler section of trail continues for around 30 minutes towards High Spying How, the start of Striding Edge. This is an excellent spot to pause, enjoy views down into the Grisedale Valley, and take a well-earned break before tackling the ridge itself.

​

Striding Edge is considered an entry-level scramble with some moderate exposure. For those new to it, scrambling bridges the gap between walking and rock climbing — you’ll use your hands for balance and movement over rock, but there’s no need to cling on by your fingertips! The scrambling is exciting yet accessible, and even in damp conditions, the rock provides reassuring grip.

The Striding Edge traverse typically takes 30–40 minutes. For anyone uncertain about walking directly along the crest, a narrow lower path runs just beneath it. After the ridge, a final steep slope leads onto the summit plateau of Helvellyn, and just a few minutes later you’ll be standing proudly at the summit.

The adventure doesn’t end there — descent is made via Swirral Edge, a shorter but equally striking arête. Now more confident after the ascent, you’ll pick your way down the blocky ridge. Depending on time, energy levels, and weather, there’s also the option to include a quick ascent of Catstycam (890m). The route then rejoins a well-made trail leading past Greenside Mine, before a final easy mile returns you to Glenridding.

This route is suitable for those with basic hill-walking fitness and experience. It’s not ideal for anyone with significant vertigo, though we’ve successfully guided many people who were initially nervous about heights — and most describe it as a truly memorable and rewarding experience.

If you’d like to reach Helvellyn’s summit but prefer to avoid scrambling, there are several excellent alternatives. Classic non-scrambling routes include ascents from Patterdale via Grisedale Tarn, from Glenridding via Keppel Cove, or from the Thirlmere or Wythburn sides of the mountain.

​

Check our Open Events diary to see what dates we have this walk scheduled on throughout the year. Also available on a bespoke basis for groups of all size.