Bag 4 Wainwrights in One Day: The Newlands Round

Why the Newlands Round is a Peak-Bagging Favourite

If you’re looking for a multi-summit day walk that combines classic Lakeland scenery with manageable effort, the Newlands Round is hard to beat. This circular route from the Borrowdale or Newlands Valley side takes in four Wainwrights along a stunning ridgeline walk: Catbells, Maiden Moor, High Spy, and Dale Head.

The terrain is varied but not too technical, the views are consistently impressive, and the route offers plenty of escape options if the weather turns. It’s ideal for Wainwright baggers looking to string together multiple fells on well-worn trails.

Route Snapshot

• Wainwrights Ticked Off:
  
  Catbells (451m)
  
  Maiden Moor (576m)
  
  High Spy (653m)
  
  Dale Head (753m)
  
  
• Distance: 13–15 km (depending on route variation)
  
  
• Total Ascent: Approx. 900–1,000m
  
  
• Time Required: 5.5–7 hours
  
  
• Start/End Point: Grange (Borrowdale) or Little Town (Newlands)
  
  
• Difficulty: Moderate
  
  
• Best Map: OS Explorer OL4 – North-Western Fells
  
  

Summit-by-Summit Breakdown

Catbells (451m)

One of the most popular fells in the Lakes, and for good reason. Despite its modest height, Catbells delivers on views, charm and accessibility. It makes for a fun and friendly start to the day, with a short scramble up the summit ridge if you fancy a hands-on section.

What makes it memorable:

• Excellent early views over Derwentwater
  
  
• A short, rewarding climb
  
  
• Great for photos in the morning light
  
  

Maiden Moor (576m)

A more understated fell that forms part of the main Newlands ridge. The summit is broad and grassy with views out towards High Spy and back to Skiddaw. It’s often quieter than Catbells and gives a strong sense of space.

Why it’s worth your time:

• Peaceful summit with long ridgeline feel
  
  
• Ideal spot for a mid-morning break
  
  
• Connects cleanly to High Spy
  
  

High Spy (653m)

A taller and rockier summit than the previous two, High Spy has a small summit cairn perched on a knoll. The surrounding views stretch out towards the central and western fells, with glimpses of the Honister Pass to come.

Highlights:

• Contrast between grassy approaches and rocky summit
  
  
• Great photo opportunities toward Dale Head
  
  
• Clear path underfoot most of the way
  
  

Dale Head (753m)

The highest point of the route and arguably the most dramatic. Dale Head rises in a perfect wedge and rewards walkers with sweeping views down into Buttermere, Newlands and the Honister Pass. The cairn at the summit is large and exposed, making it a dramatic end-point before the descent.

What stands out:

• Stunning views down the full Newlands Valley
  
  
• Clear skies give views all the way to the coast
  
  
• Good spot for a final snack before descent
  
  

Full Route Description: Classic Newlands Round from Grange

1. Start in Grange and head up the well-marked path to Catbells—the climb is short but punchy.
   
   
2. Continue along the ridgeline to Maiden Moor, taking in early morning light over Derwentwater.
   
   
3. Follow the clear trail to High Spy, gaining more height and rock underfoot.
   
   
4. Continue to Dale Head, the high point of the day, with views opening up as you climb.
   
   
5. Descend toward Honister Pass and follow trails looping back through the valley to complete the round.
   
   

Optional variation: Start and finish at Little Town in the Newlands Valley for a more rural feel.

Navigation and Safety

• This is a popular route with good paths, but some sections near Dale Head can be slippery in poor weather.
  
  
• Visibility can drop quickly—bring a map and compass and know how to use them.
  
  
• In winter or poor weather, consider shortening the route after High Spy.
  
  

What to Bring

• OS Explorer Map OL4
  
  
• Waterproofs and warm layers
  
  
• Food and 1–2L of water
  
  
• Walking poles (optional but helpful on descent)
  
  
• GPS or compass in case of cloud cover
  
  

Nearby Refreshments

• Grange Bridge Cottage Café – right at the start/finish if beginning in Borrowdale
  
  
• Littletown Farm Guest House – does tea and cakes in season
  
  
• The Swinside Inn – classic Lakeland pub just down the road
  
  

Final Thoughts

The Newlands Round is a brilliant example of how to bag multiple Wainwrights without biting off more than you can chew. Four summits, varied terrain, and unbeatable views, all wrapped up in a loop that feels like a true Lake District classic.

Whether you’re steadily working your way through the 214 or just want a satisfying mountain day, this route delivers both in quality and quantity.

Track your progress and save your route using the Peaky Baggers app—log your Wainwrights.

‍

Photo by Untitled Photo on Unsplash