Bag 5 Wainwrights in One Day: Langdale Pikes Link-Up

Why the Langdale Pikes Are a Peak-Bagging Must

The Langdale Pikes are some of the most recognisable silhouettes in the Lake District. Their steep, rocky faces rise sharply above the valley floor, drawing walkers from all over the country. But this isn’t just a pretty skyline—it’s also one of the most efficient and dramatic Wainwright link-ups in the Central Fells.

Starting from the New Dungeon Ghyll, this classic high-level circuit lets you bag five Wainwrights in a single day, with stunning views, hands-on terrain, and a real sense of adventure.

Route Snapshot

• Wainwrights Ticked Off:
  
  Pavey Ark (700m)
  
  Harrison Stickle (736m)
  
  Pike of Stickle (709m)
  
  Loft Crag (680m)
  
  Thunacar Knott (723m)
  
  
• Distance: 10–12 km
  
  
• Total Ascent: Approx. 900m
  
  
• Time Required: 5–6 hours
  
  
• Start/End Point: New Dungeon Ghyll, Great Langdale
  
  
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard (some rocky ascents and route-finding)
  
  
• Best Map: OS Explorer OL6 – South-Western Fells
  
  

Summit-by-Summit Breakdown

Pavey Ark (700m)

Famous for the steep face above Stickle Tarn and the legendary Jack’s Rake scramble (optional). Most walkers reach the summit via the north-east ridge or by looping around the tarn.

Why it’s memorable:

• Imposing crags and tarn-top views
  
  
• Choice of gentle or scrambling ascent
  
  
• The perfect first fell of the day
  
  

Harrison Stickle (736m)

The highest of the Langdale Pikes and the centrepiece of the skyline. It’s a short hop from Pavey Ark, with a summit that feels like a true peak.

Why it stands out:

• Panoramic summit with views across to Scafell Pike
  
  
• Rocky terrain makes it feel alpine
  
  
• Photo-worthy from every angle
  
  

Pike of Stickle (709m)

Known for its dramatic, conical shape and historical links to Neolithic axe production, Pike of Stickle is a striking summit with a short but steep final ascent.

Why it’s a must:

• Iconic shape from the valley below
  
  
• Unique archaeological history
  
  
• Dramatic views over Mickleden and beyond
  
  

Loft Crag (680m)

Often overshadowed by its neighbours, Loft Crag sits just beneath Pike of Stickle and offers amazing angles of the rest of the pikes. It’s also much quieter.

Why you shouldn’t skip it:

• Great perspective on Pike of Stickle
  
  
• Short detour with big rewards
  
  
• Often has fewer walkers, ideal for a breather
  
  

Thunacar Knott (723m)

The least dramatic summit of the five, but an essential Wainwright tick. Its rounded, grassy top sits between Harrison Stickle and High Raise, offering an easy final ascent.

Why it’s still worth the stop:

• Easy extra Wainwright with minimal detour
  
  
• Great as a final summit or halfway lunch stop
  
  
• Wide views over to the eastern fells
  
  

Full Route Description: Langdale Pikes Circular from New Dungeon Ghyll

1. Start at Stickle Ghyll car park and follow the clear but steep path up past Stickle Tarn.
   
   
2. Climb to Pavey Ark (option to tackle Jack’s Rake for experienced scramblers), then cut west to Harrison Stickle.
   
   
3. Continue west along the ridge to bag Pike of Stickle, then backtrack slightly to reach Loft Crag.
   
   
4. Head north-east across a grassy plateau to summit Thunacar Knott, then drop back down via the main path or take a longer return past Dungeon Ghyll.
   
   

Navigation and Safety

• Paths are mostly clear but rocky and steep in places—especially between the Stickles.
  
  
• In mist or poor visibility, the plateau between Thunacar Knott and the descent path can be confusing—map and compass essential.
  
  
• Jack’s Rake is a grade 1 scramble and should only be attempted in good weather by experienced walkers.
  
  

What to Bring

• OS Explorer Map OL6
  
  
• Ample snacks and 1.5–2L of water
  
  
• Sturdy footwear with grip (terrain is rocky and uneven)
  
  
• Windproof layer—summits are exposed
  
  
• GPX or navigation app if you’re unfamiliar with the area
  
  

Nearby Refreshments

• Sticklebarn Tavern (National Trust) – just next to the car park, great beer and burgers
  
  
• Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel – classic climbers’ pub with a legendary walkers’ bar
  
  
• Chesters by the River (Skelwith Bridge) – for something a bit fancier post-hike
  
  

Final Thoughts

The Langdale Pikes link-up is peak bagging at its best—a compact area packed with characterful fells, dramatic scenery, and classic Lake District energy. It’s achievable in a day, suitable for most confident hikers, and visually impressive from start to finish.

Five Wainwrights, one route, zero regrets.

Don’t forget to log your summits in the Peaky Baggers app.

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Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash