Bag 3 Wainwrights in One Day: Helvellyn Edges Circular Walk

Why the Helvellyn Edges Are a Wainwright Bagging Classic

Striding Edge is often top of the list for Lake District hikers, and for good reason. This iconic ridge walk combines dramatic views, a real sense of exposure, and a high, broad summit in Helvellyn. But what makes it even better for Wainwright baggers is the ability to tick off three summits in one circular route: Birkhouse Moor, Helvellyn, and Nethermost Pike.

The route offers just enough technical challenge to feel adventurous, without being full-blown mountaineering. It’s a rewarding day for confident hikers, especially in clear weather when the edges really show off.

Route Snapshot

• Wainwrights Ticked Off:
  
  Birkhouse Moor (718m)
  
  Helvellyn (950m)
  
  Nethermost Pike (891m)
  
  
• Distance: 11–13 km
  
  
• Total Ascent: Approx. 900–1,000m
  
  
• Time Required: 5–6 hours
  
  
• Start/End Point: Glenridding
  
  
• Difficulty: Hard (exposure, hands-on sections on Striding Edge)
  
  
• Best Map: OS Explorer OL5 – North-Eastern Fells
  
  

Summit-by-Summit Breakdown

Birkhouse Moor (718m)

This fell is often overlooked, but it’s a proper Wainwright and well worth including. You’ll cross the summit on your way toward Striding Edge, and it offers a great perspective on the route ahead.

Why it’s worth a stop:

• Early summit to ease into the day
  
  
• Excellent views down to Ullswater
  
  
• Quiet compared to Helvellyn itself
  
  

Helvellyn (950m)

The third highest mountain in England and a highlight of any Wainwright journey. Helvellyn’s flat summit offers wide-ranging views over the Eastern and Central fells. Reaching it via Striding Edge is the Lake District’s most famous ridge route and adds a serious sense of occasion.

What makes it iconic:

• Ridge approach with drama and excitement
  
  
• Huge summit plateau with space to relax
  
  
• A real milestone in any peak-bagging journey
  
  

Nethermost Pike (891m)

Just a short walk south from Helvellyn’s summit, Nethermost Pike feels quieter and more remote. The cairn is tucked slightly back from the edge, but a short detour provides views into Grisedale and Deepdale.

Reasons to include it:

• An easy bonus summit that most walkers miss
  
  
• Excellent views with little extra effort
  
  
• A satisfying addition to the ridge day
  
  

Full Route Description: Helvellyn Edges from Glenridding

1. Start in Glenridding and follow the well-marked path up past Lanty’s Tarn toward Birkhouse Moor.
   
   
2. Climb steadily to reach the broad summit of Birkhouse Moor—an ideal spot for a break.
   
   
3. Continue to the start of Striding Edge and follow the arête across the ridge. Use the bypass paths if conditions are wet or confidence is low.
   
   
4. Make the final scramble up to Helvellyn’s summit plateau, taking care on the exit from the ridge.
   
   
5. Continue south to bag Nethermost Pike, then descend via Grisedale or Dollywaggon Pike (optional fourth Wainwright if you’re keen).
   
   
6. Return to Glenridding via the valley path, passing Ruthwaite Lodge or back along the Hole-in-the-Wall route.
   
   

Navigation and Safety

• Striding Edge is exposed and narrow—this route is not recommended in high wind or thick cloud.
  
  
• If unsure, take the Swirral Edge ascent instead and descend via Striding Edge (some find this less daunting).
  
  
• Always bring a map, compass and/or GPS—the plateau can be disorientating in poor visibility.
  
  
• Check the weather and carry full hill gear, even in summer.
  
  

What to Bring

• OS Explorer Map OL5
  
  
• Plenty of food and water
  
  
• Windproof/waterproof layers (weather can change rapidly)
  
  
• A headtorch if starting late or walking in shoulder seasons
  
  
• Gloves and a buff for exposed ridges
  
  
• Confidence on grade 1 scrambles if taking the direct line on Striding Edge
  
  

Nearby Refreshments

• Helvellyn Country Kitchen (Glenridding) – hearty meals and cake
  
  
• The Travellers Rest – traditional pub with a good beer selection
  
  
• Inn on the Lake – fancier but great for a post-hike pint with a view
  
  

Final Thoughts

The Helvellyn Edges walk is one of the best ridge routes in the UK—and with three Wainwrights ticked in a single day, it’s an efficient and iconic route for any serious peak bagger.

Striding Edge brings the drama, the Helvellyn plateau gives the reward, and Nethermost Pike quietly rounds out the day. Add in Birkhouse Moor on the way up, and you’ve got a linear ridge line that feels both challenging and achievable.

Log the full route in the Peaky Baggers app to track your summits.

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Photo by Amit Jagnade on Unsplash