Local Walks
The most common reason for coming to Wasdale is for the outstanding walking. From lakeside strolls, wanders along the beach, to climbing the highest mountain in England, it's all within a few minutes drive of Goosepen cottage. For the hill and mountain routes, please make sure you have a map and are be able to read it. Also please take suitable clothing and equipment for the conditions and walk. The local volunteer Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team is very busy, please don't add to their jobs!
Here are a few suggestions (the blue line marks the route):
Irton Pike (half day walk)
Very local to Goosepen, stunning views from coast to mountains. You could walk along the road or drive to a small disused quarry on the road to Eskdale. From there take the steep path through the woods. Fork left and then turn back on yourself.
Wastwater (half day walk)
A lovely flat walk along the edge of Wastwater.
Park in the popular laybys alongside the lake. Admire the view. Turn round and walk with the lake on your left hand side. As the road moves away from the lake, go through the gate into the grounds of Wasdale Hall (youth hostel). Keep following the lake and then the river until you reach Lund Bridge. Cross it and walk up stream. Eventually you will reach the pump house. Retrace your steps.
It might be tempting to continue round the lake. Think twice, there are several boulder fields to cross which could easily result in an accident.
Muncaster Fell
A full day walk combining a trip of the famous Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway (La'al Ratty). Park at Irton Road station and catch the first train to Ravenglass. Turn right out of the station car park and then right again to head towards the Roman Bath House (follow the EskTRail signs). Through the woods of Muncaster Castle and then climb the straight track up Muncaster Fell. Over the Fell and back to Irton Road station. Best done in good weather, to admire the views of the mountains and also Muncaster Fell can be confusing in poor visibility.
Great Gable
Our favourite mountain with something for everyone (who puts the effort in!). Park at Wasdale Head village green, walk along the track to Burnthwaite Farm, cross the bridge over Gable Beck and climb, climb and climb. Eventually you'll reach Beck Head, turn right and continue up the ridge to the summit. On the summit is a war memorial (there is a service every Remembrance Sunday). Rest. Continue south east downwards to the stretcher box near Styhead Tarn. Then turn west and continue down to Burnthwaite Farm. Perhaps take a detour for a refreshing drink at the famous Wasdale Head Inn before heading back to your car.
Scafell Pike
Ok, the highest in England and consequently is a draw for the crowds. There are many different ways to walk up to the top. This route is the most direct and easiest (in good weather).
Start from the National Trust car park at the end of the lake. Walk out the far end of the car park and follow the north bank of Lingmell Gill. Follow the path over the stream and continue up to Hollow Stones. Take care to turn left here and head to Lingmell Coll. Turn right to the summit. Retrace your steps.
A more challenging route would be to go via Styhead and take the Corridor route to the summit.
