Join us for a memorable walk in the Western Fells, combining the dramatic summit of Fleetwith Pike (648m) with the much-loved Haystacks (597m), famously described by Alfred Wainwright as his favourite fell in the entire Lake District. This rewarding circuit combines industrial heritage, rugged mountain scenery, beautiful tarns and some of the finest views in Lakeland.
Starting from Honister Slate Mine, we follow historic quarry tracks into a landscape shaped by centuries of slate extraction. The slate mine remains one of the last working slate mines in England, and the old tramways, quarry workings and remains of the Drum House provide a fascinating insight into the area’s industrial heritage. These routes once carried slate down the mountainside from the high quarries above Honister Pass.
Our first objective is Fleetwith Pike, whose commanding position above Buttermere provides breathtaking views across the Western Lake District. The summit ridge offers dramatic perspectives over Buttermere, Crummock Water, the High Stile range, and the distant peaks of the Western Fells.
We then continue across historic quarry landscapes and mountain paths towards the rocky wonderland of Haystacks. Unlike many Lakeland summits, Haystacks is not defined by a single peak but by a fascinating collection of rocky knolls, tarns, crags and hidden hollows that make exploration a real delight. It is easy to see why Wainwright considered it the finest fell-top in Lakeland.
One of the most poignant locations in the Lake District is Innominate Tarn, nestled amongst the rocky plateau of Haystacks. Following his death in 1991, Alfred Wainwright’s ashes were scattered beside the tarn at his own request. Today, many walkers make a quiet pilgrimage to this peaceful spot, reflecting on the lasting legacy of the man whose guidebooks inspired generations to explore the Lakeland fells.
Much of today’s route follows old quarrying infrastructure associated with the Honister Slate Mine. Along the way we encounter remains of tramways, quarry workings and the historic Drum House, once used to control the movement of slate wagons between the high quarries and the valley below. The famous route known as Moses’ Trod was used by miners and mule drivers transporting slate through the remote valleys of the western Lakes.
Throughout the day we are treated to superb views of:
Meeting Time: 09:30
Meeting Point: Honister Slate Mine National Trust Car Park, Honister Pass, CA12 5XN
Parking is available at the National Trust Pay & Display Car Park at Honister Slate Mine. National Trust members may park free with a valid membership card.
Combining stunning mountain scenery, rich slate mining heritage and a visit to the spiritual home of Lakeland fell walking at Innominate Tarn, this walk offers a truly special day amongst some of the most beloved landscapes in the Lake District.
