Make the Most of Long Summer Days
Got a free weekend and a craving for adventure? With summer’s long daylight hours, it’s the perfect time to tackle a multi-summit challenge in the Lake District. Over two days, you’ll bag five scenic fells—without resorting to marathon trekking. Expect great views, fresh air, and a satisfying sense of achievement.
Why Summer Is Ideal for a Two-Day Peak Challenge
- Nearly 16 hours of daylight—start early, finish late
- Warmer, drier conditions = safer ground
- Easier camping or bunkhouse stays
- Ridgelines and steep paths are more accessible
Your Two-Day Route
Day 1 – The Eastern Classics
Peaks: Beda Fell → Place Fell
- Distance & Time: ~10 km / 4–5 hrs
- Route Overview: Start at Martindale St Peter’s Church, tackle Beda Fell’s grassy ridge (~509 m), then continue north to Place Fell (~657 m) with superb Ullswater and Helvellyn-range views
- Ascent: Combined ~800 m
- Highlights: Ullswater panorama, quieter tracks, lakeside teashop (Lowther Barn)
- Overnight: Camp by Martindale or stay in Patterdale & enjoy a lakeside meal
Day 2 – The Langdale Pike Loop
Peaks: Loft Crag → Pike of Stickle → Harrison Stickle
- Distance & Time: ~6.5 km / 3–4 hrs
- Route Overview: Park at Stickle Ghyll, ascend via Stickle Tarn to Loft Crag (~682 m), continue to Pike of Stickle then climb to Harrison Stickle (~736 m) for sweeping views across Broad End valley
- Ascent: ~700 m
- Highlights: Dramatic crags and tarn views among iconic Langdale Pikes
- Return: Step or ride into Great Langdale—finish with a pint at the New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel
Gear & Essentials
- Layered clothing (include wind/rainproof jacket)
- Sturdy boots with grip—Langdale can be rocky
- Navigation aids: map, compass, phone with GPX
- Plenty of food and 2 L of water per day
- Lightweight sleeping gear or book bunkhouse
- Trekking poles for technical ascent/descents (e.g. Place Fell gully)
Tips for a Smooth Challenge
- Start early both mornings to maximise daylight
- Weather-check before you go and adjust if needed
- Flexible goals: Don’t push if tired—summit count matters less than safety
- Accommodation: Campsites in Patterdale sell out—plan ahead
- Use Peaky Baggers: Log peaks, track progress, and share your story
Final Thoughts
This 5-fell, 2-day challenge is a perfect weekend adventure—long days, stunning views, and the satisfaction of a well-earned summit collection. It’s achievable but substantial, ideal for ambitious walkers looking for a summer peak-bagging fix.
Photo by Dan Barrett on Unsplash
