Another big day in the Lake District, this is the tallest and longest yet, so hopefully you are fully recharged from your overnight stay in popular Ambleside. Fully stocked and ready to go – it’s time to leave the cafes and outdoor equipment shops behind you and get back on the hills.
The route leaves Ambleside along Lake Road, up some steps, opposite Kelsick Road, and then on to Wansfell Pike, with great views of the surrounding peaks. Heading down Nanny Lane to arrive in Troutbeck before leaving via Ing Lane and along Hagg Gill to ascend High Street – the highest point of the Ravenber Way. From here the route stays high, taking in High Raise, Red Crag and Loadpot Hill before gently descending along the Roman Road into Askham.
There is an alternative route from Ambleside to Troutbeck via Skelghyll Wood – which may be especially worth the detour if the bluebells are out – though you will miss the views from Wansfell Pike. Also there’s an opportunity to bag Thornthwaite Crag on the way to High Street’s summit cairn.