Wainwright's Greatest Hits: The Essential Fells Every Lake District Walker Should Conquer
After thirty years of rambling these fells, I can tell you that not all Wainwrights are created equal. While Alfred Wainwright lovingly documented 214 peaks across his seven pictorial guides, some stand head and shoulders above the rest. Whether you're starting your Wainwright journey or looking to tick off the absolute classics, these are the fells that truly capture the magic of our beloved Lake District.
The Perfect Starting Points
If you're new to fell walking, don't charge straight up Helvellyn. Begin with Loughrigg Fell from Ambleside, where you can park near the rugby club and enjoy one of the finest viewpoints in the southern lakes. This gentle 335-metre summit offers stunning vistas across Windermere and Grasmere, and you'll likely spot other walkers attempting the more challenging Fairfield Horseshoe in the distance.
From Grasmere, Silver Howe provides another excellent introduction to Wainwright walking. The path starts near the village centre (parking can be tricky, so arrive early or use the main village car park), and the moderate climb rewards you with spectacular views down to Grasmere itself. It's the perfect walk to work up an appetite before dinner at one of Grasmere's excellent pubs.
The Crown Jewels
No Wainwright collection is complete without Helvellyn, and for good reason. This 950-metre giant offers multiple routes, but the classic ascent from Glenridding near Ullswater via Striding Edge is simply unmissable. Park in Glenridding village (arrive very early in summer or consider the park-and-ride service), and prepare for one of the most exhilarating ridge walks in England. The scramble along Striding Edge isn't technically difficult, but it demands respect and good weather conditions.
From Keswick, Skiddaw dominates the northern skyline and provides one of the more straightforward routes to a major summit. The wide path from the Latrigg car park makes this accessible to most walkers, though don't underestimate the distance. The summit views across the northern fells and down to Derwentwater are absolutely magnificent.
Scafell Pike, England's highest peak, belongs on every serious walker's list. The approach from Wasdale Head is the most direct, though parking fills up incredibly early. The route from Borrowdale via Styhead Tarn offers a slightly longer but equally rewarding alternative, with better parking options at Seathwaite Farm.
Hidden Gems Worth the Effort
While everyone flocks to the popular peaks, some lesser-known Wainwrights offer equally spectacular experiences. Harrison Stickle in the Langdale Pikes provides dramatic rocky terrain and outstanding views across the central fells. Park at the New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel and fuel up afterwards with their excellent local ales.
From Coniston, The Old Man of Coniston offers a perfect half-day adventure with fascinating mining heritage along the route. The car park at the base fills quickly, but the industrial archaeology combined with summit views across Coniston Water makes this a uniquely Lake District experience.
For something completely different, venture to Black Combe in the far south-west. This isolated fell provides incredible coastal views and a sense of wildness that's hard to find elsewhere in the Lakes. It's rarely crowded, making it perfect for those seeking solitude.
Strategic Planning for Wainwright Baggers
If you're serious about completing significant numbers of Wainwrights, consider staying in Keswick or Ambleside as your base. Both towns offer excellent accommodation options and access to multiple fell ranges. Book restaurants well ahead, especially during peak season. The Hole in t' Wall in Bowness-on-Windermere and L'Enclume in Cartmel (if you're celebrating a major milestone) both require advance reservations.
Weather windows are crucial for the higher fells. Check forecasts carefully and have backup plans for lower-level walks when conditions deteriorate. The fells around Kirkby Lonsdale offer excellent alternatives when the high peaks are shrouded in cloud.
Essential Tips for Success
Start with day walks before attempting longer expeditions. Many walkers underestimate distances and terrain difficulty, particularly on fells like the Fairfield Horseshoe or the Langdale Pikes circuit. Build your experience gradually.
Parking is genuinely challenging at popular starting points. Arrive before 8 AM during summer months, or consider less popular routes to the same summits. The National Trust and local councils have improved facilities, but demand still exceeds capacity.
Weather changes rapidly in the fells. Even on apparently settled days, carry waterproofs, extra layers, and navigation equipment. Mobile phone coverage is patchy at best on many summits.
Making It Memorable
The joy of Wainwright walking isn't just about ticking off summits. Take time to appreciate the incredible diversity our area offers, from the gentle rolling hills near Windermere to the dramatic crags above Borrowdale. Each fell has its own character and story.
Consider joining local walking groups or hiring a guide for your first attempts at the more challenging routes. The knowledge of local conditions and hidden gems that experienced fell walkers share makes every expedition more rewarding.
Whether you're aiming for all 214 Wainwrights or simply want to experience the best our fells have to offer, these peaks provide the perfect introduction to why so many of us never tire of exploring these magnificent hills. Start with the easier options, respect the mountains, and prepare for a lifelong love affair with the Lake District's most beautiful high places.
