| Lake District Hotel in Grasmere - Bridge House Hotel - Helvellyn Ascent from Grasmere | |
| These photos were taken whilst ascending Helvellyn via Grizedale Tarn, Dollywaggon Pike and Nethermost Pike. The descent taken was to Thirlspot but an alternative route down is to Wythburn. Then a short bus ride back to Grasmere. This Helvellyn ascent route is not as demanding or spectacular as the ones via Striding Edge or Swirral Edge. But it offers magnificent views and is less challenging for inexperienced walkers. One recommendation though - when you get to the top of Dollywaggon Pike in fine weather (with good visibility) avoid the main path from Dollywaggon to Nethermost and Helvellyn summit, and take a route along the top (branching to the right). This gives the benefit of great views at every point of the compass. | |
| All of the main ascent routes for Helvellyn are described in Wainwright's Pictorial Guide - Book 1. Many other walks are also available from Grasmere, some of which are covered in books 1 & 3. Further Grasmere walks are also available in the Johnathan Craig series which offer guidance directly from Bridge House Hotel. |
|
|
|
|
| Tongue Gill Force | Grizedale Tarn |
 |
 |
| As you ascend Dollywaggon Pike the views open out. | |
 |
|
| In good visibility you can see the Coniston Fells, Crinkle Crags, Bowfell, Scafell Pike and Great Gable. | |
 |
 |
| Grizedale | Striding Edge (on left) comes into view. |
 |
 |
| Red Tarn from Helvellyn summit. | Thirlmere with views beyond Skiddaw to Scotland. |
Helvellyn the "friendly giant" offers stunning views from all sides and a great sense of place. The ascent from Grasmere is hugely rewarding and, whilst not as demanding as Striding Edge, it is nonetheless a spectacular experience.
