Wansfell Pike is the higher of the two fells near to Ambleside at 484m/1588ft, and affords superb views over the surrounding fells and down the whole length of Windermere. It’s a steep but straightforward climb to the top, followed by a descent at a more moderate gradient to the village of Troutbeck. The return route via Skelghyll Wood provides more fine views of Windermere.
[1] Start from the car park to the north of the town (NY376047), walk back down towards the centre, bearing left past the Tourist information Centre and Salutation Hotel. As the road bears round to the right, turn left along a narrow lane between Barclays Bank (on the left) and The Market Hall (on the right), then left again at the T-junction. You’ll see a sign opposite: ‘To the waterfalls’. Carry on up the lane and soon bear left again along a track signed: ‘This Way to the Waterfalls’, which takes you into Stockgyhll Woods. Follow the red arrows, keeping to the upper path, which leads you to a good viewing point for the falls. Just above is a picnic table and a sign: ‘To the revolving gate’. Turn sharp right here and follow the path to the gate and lane, where you turn left.
[2] Soon on your right you’ll reach a footpath signed for Troutbeck (just above some steps in the wall and a stile beyond). Head up this – first on a hard surface path, then a well constructed stone path. It’s quite a steep climb all the way to the top of Wansfell Pike.
The views back are ample reward: Ambleside nestling in the valley below, with the Langdale and Coniston Fells beyond, and to the north Kirkstone Pass. As you get higher, the fells of the classic Fairfield Horseshoe walk (to the north-west of Ambleside) come into view, and you should also be able to spot Grasmere and Rydal Water. From Wansfell Pike’s summit there are excellent views of Windermere.
[3] Go through a gate and carry straight on down the clear path on the other side, ignoring a permitted footpath to the right when you reach a gate.
Ahead of you to the left is the triple peaked ridge: Ill Bell, flanked by Froswick and Yoke.
At the next gate you bear right onto a walled track called Nanny Lane and follow this down to Troutbeck.
[4] When you reach the road turn right.
Troutbeck is a quiet, attractive village dating back to medieval times.
It’s worth a short detour on a choice of paths to visit the church which lies below in the Trout Beck valley. The east window is particularly notable.
[5] Turn right at the post office along a track called Robin Lane. The route back to Ambleside is well signed with lovely views over Windermere. Once in the woods you’ll pass Jenkins Crag viewpoint. Keep to the upper path at junctions in the woods. After joining a tarmac lane you drop down to the southern end of Ambleside and turn right back to the centre.