Wansfell Pike Walk
This circular walk in the Lake District takes you up Wansfell Pike fell to Troutbeck, and then back through Skelghyll woods. It's popular with walkers as it begins and ends in the accessible town of Ambleside.
The first section of the walk takes you from the centre of Ambleside to Stock Ghyll Force, a spectacular 70 foot waterfall which can be viewed safely from a railed viewpoint.
You continue the ascent to the peak of Wansfell Pike where there are stunning views of the Coniston Fells, Fairfield, Lake Windermere and Red Screes. You descend along Nanny Lane to the village of Troutbeck before country lanes take you on to Townend. This 17th century stone and slate farmhouse is run by the National Trust and open to the public. Inside you will find intricately carved furniture, a traditional farmhouse kitchen with a real fire and a fine collection of books which are of international importance.
From Townend you follow Robin Lane to Skelghyll woods before returing to Ambleside.
The route is also often started from Troutbeck - see the lovely video on the right for details.
Wansfell Pike Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Wansfell Pike Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Wansfell Pike OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Wansfell Pike Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Pubs/Cafes
In Ambleside head to the Unicorn Inn for some refreshments after your walk. This quintessential traditional Lakeland public house is the oldest pub in Ambleside, dating back to the 18th century. They do good home cooked food and have a fine selection of ales. You can find the pub in the town at postcode LA22 9DT for your sat navs.
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
For a shorter and easier climb you could head to the nearby Jenkin's Crag. It's located just to the south of the town and includes a visit to the pretty Stagshaw Gardens before climbing to the viewpoint over Windermere.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Lake District Walks page.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
The southern side of Wansfell Pike. The hill is not very high, but it is on the edge of the proper hills, and it can offer views deep into Lancashire.
Looking north from Wansfell Pike. The summit of the Kirkstone Pass is in the cleft towards the left of the picture, with the Kirkstone Inn just visible in the shadow.
The view east from the Pike. Troutbeck lies out of sight in the valley below, while on the horizon are the summits of the northern Pennines including the flat top of Wild Boar Fell
Looking south from the pike. Although less than half the height of the big Lake District summits, the position of Wansfell Pike makes for tremendous views. The lake is Windermere, while it is also possible to see Morecambe, Heysham, Blackpool Tower and the mountains of north-east Wales in this direction (albeit the camera hasn't picked them up in this shot).
Looking west from Wansfell Pike. Ridge after ridge of mountains including the Langdale Pikes, Bow Fell and - just visible in the furthest distance toward the left - Scafell Pike. The lakes are Grasmere (centre) and Rydal Water (right).
Tracks by the wall
Footpath from Wansfell Pike into Troutbeck. A group of walkers on a fine summers day.
The path from Ambleside to Wansfell Pike