2. Wasdale Head to Ambleside

Unless you took one of the alternative routes to Great Langdale then you’ll be beginning this section at Wasdale Head. Hopefully you’re ready for another day of Lake District mountains on this, slightly longer than yesterday, route into Ambleside. One final cup of tea and then drag yourself away from this archetypal Lake District scene for a fine day of walking ahead.

The route leaves Wasdale Head towards Burnthwaite and then follows alongside Lingmell Beck before ascending to Sty Head, via one of the two zig-zag routes available. Passing Sprinkling Tarn and then Angle Tarn, the route zig-zags before following Rossett Gill and joining the reasonably level Cumbria Way into Great Langdale, through Elterwater and then onto Skelwith Bridge. Here the route heads along the road to Tarn Foot, near Loughrigg Tarn, and then passes under Ivy Crag, through the Deer Hows wood, and crosses the River Rothay to reach Ambleside.

The guidebook provides just one alternative route, a high level detour from Wasdale Head, taking in Great Gable on the way to Sty Head – if you have the time and energy, considering the miles and climb already in this section.


Distance: 16 miles (25.7 km)
Total distance: 29 miles (46.7 km)
Ascent: 1048 metres
Descent: 1066 metres
Highest elevation: Langdale to Wasdale Path below Esk Hause Shelter 725m
Terrain: Clearly defined and well-graded paths amidst beautiful mountains, tarns and valley scenery

Accommodation:

Along the main route
End of Section 2 on the main route

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OS Map: Lake District South Western Area OL6