Bag 3 Wainwrights in One Day: Loughrigg, Silver How & Helm Crag

Why This Trio Is Perfect for a Relaxed Day of Peak Bagging

Not every Wainwright day has to be a leg-burner. This low-level loop through the Central Fells bags three characterful summits—Loughrigg Fell, Silver How and Helm Crag—with manageable ascents, gorgeous scenery, and plenty of options for pit stops. It’s ideal for first-time Wainwright baggers, families, or anyone looking for a scenic day with minimal stress.

The route connects the charming Lakeland villages of Grasmere and Rydal, offering woodland paths, open fell tops, and that classic Central Lakes terrain without venturing into the higher, more exposed fells.

Route Snapshot

• Wainwrights Ticked Off:
  
  Loughrigg Fell (335m)
  
  Silver How (395m)
  
  Helm Crag (405m)
  
  
• Distance: 10–12 km
  
  
• Total Ascent: Approx. 650m
  
  
• Time Required: 4–5 hours
  
  
• Start/End Point: Grasmere or Rydal
  
  
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  
  
• Best Map: OS Explorer OL7 – South-Eastern Area
  
  

Summit-by-Summit Breakdown

Loughrigg Fell (335m)

Despite being one of the lower Wainwrights, Loughrigg delivers expansive views over Rydal Water, Loughrigg Tarn, and out toward the Langdale Pikes. The terrain is undulating and the summit plateau is full of rocky outcrops and hidden corners.

Why it’s a great start:

• Ideal intro for beginners or kids
  
  
• Easy ascent from Rydal or Grasmere
  
  
• Superb views without much climbing
  
  

Silver How (395m)

A grassy fell that sits above Grasmere village, Silver How offers a short but steep climb with brilliant views back toward Helm Crag and the Easedale Valley. It’s usually quieter than the more popular nearby tops.

What makes it special:

• Panoramic outlook toward the Helvellyn range
  
  
• A less-travelled gem in the Central Fells
  
  
• Often paired with a mid-walk snack break
  
  

Helm Crag (405m)

Known for its quirky summit rocks—The Lion and the Lamb—Helm Crag is one of the most recognisable small fells in the Lakes. The summit itself is famously hard to ‘officially’ bag unless you scramble the Howitzer (which Wainwright himself never did).

Why it’s a must-do:

• Iconic Lakeland summit with fun geology
  
  
• Final fell on the loop, with a great finish into Grasmere
  
  
• Excellent photo spot from below or above
  
  

Full Route Description: Circular Walk from Grasmere

1. Start in Grasmere and head south-west toward Loughrigg Terrace, then climb steadily to the summit of Loughrigg Fell.
   
   
2. Descend toward Loughrigg Tarn, then cut across country to reach Silver How via the bridleway toward Langdale.
   
   
3. After summiting Silver How, return to Grasmere and follow the path along Easedale Road toward the climb up Helm Crag.
   
   
4. Descend Helm Crag via the well-trodden path back into Grasmere village, completing the circuit.
   
   

Alternative start: Begin in Rydal, ascend Loughrigg first, and loop clockwise.

Navigation and Safety

• Navigation is straightforward in good conditions, but fog can make Loughrigg’s summit plateau confusing—watch your bearings.
  
  
• Paths are mostly well-used and clearly marked, but some muddy or slippery sections near Silver How and Helm Crag.
  
  
• Limited exposure, making it a good route for low-wind days or poor visibility alternatives.
  
  

What to Bring

• OS Explorer OL7
  
  
• Sturdy shoes or boots (paths can be rocky or wet)
  
  
• Light waterproof and windproof jacket
  
  
• Snacks or packed lunch (though you’ll pass cafés too)
  
  
• Phone or GPS for extra confidence on the plateau sections
  
  

Nearby Refreshments

• Baldry’s Tearoom (Grasmere) – excellent scones and cakes
  
  
• Grasmere Gingerbread Shop – famous for a reason
  
  
• The Good Sport – relaxed café-bar with great pizza and beers
  
  
• Rydal Hall Tea Room – peaceful spot if starting/ending in Rydal
  
  

Final Thoughts

This relaxed ridge route through the Central Fells is a brilliant example of peak bagging without the punishing climbs. Loughrigg, Silver How and Helm Crag all bring something different to the day—views, quietness, quirky features—and the combined loop is both manageable and memorable.

It’s the kind of walk you could do with friends, family, or solo, and still come away feeling like you’ve had a real mountain day.

Track your route and log your Wainwrights in the Peaky Baggers app.

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Photo by Ryan Hughes on Unsplash