Wansfell, The Lakes - October 2009

6-mile walk with 1,800 feet of ascent taking under 4 hours

The Wansfell walk is noted for its panoramic views over Ambleside and Lake Windermere as well as good views over Troutbeck. The trail starts in Central Ambleside and climbs via a roadway until the road peters out and is replaced by a gravel hiking trail. After a short while the trail goes off to the right with a steep climb to Wansfell at 1,581 feet. Here there was a chill wind so we stopped only briefly to admire the view over Lake Windermere. The path drops down from Wansfell descending esatwards towards Troutbeck over gently undulating land. An enclosed trackway is soon reached (Nanny Lane) which drops down to the roadway. To the left along this road is The Mortal Man pub, and to the right is the Post Office where it is possible to get a tea or a coffee. From the Post Office is a bridleway, Robin Lane, which contours round towards Ambleside, passing through High Skelghyll Farm. Even though the track is quite low down, there are still good views over Lake Windermere.

Red Screes viewed during the climb to Wansfell

Mick, Lyn, Tony & Lesley (Photo: J Knight)

Lake Windermere viewed from Wansfell

Tony, Lesley and Lyn atop Wansfell

View over Troutbeck

Small cottage in Troutbeck

The Team at Troutbeck...... Jim, Tony, Lyn, Sue & Lesley

Contouring round towards Ambleside with good views over Lake Windermere