Join us for one of the most iconic mountain walks in the Lake District, a spectacular circuit of the Langdale Pikes taking in five classic Wainwright summits: Pavey Ark (697m), Thunacar Knott (723m), Harrison Stickle (736m), Pike o’ Stickle (709m) and Loft Crag (682m). Widely regarded as one of the finest mountain days in Lakeland, this route is a must for aspiring Wainwright baggers.
Starting from New Dungeon Ghyll in the heart of Great Langdale, we climb alongside Stickle Ghyll to reach the beautiful waters of Stickle Tarn, dramatically overlooked by the towering cliffs of Pavey Ark. The route then visits a series of rugged rocky summits, each offering outstanding views across the Central and Southern Fells of the Lake District.
This walk passes through one of the most fascinating landscapes in Britain. The dramatic crags and pinnacles of the Langdale Pikes were formed over 450 million years ago during periods of intense volcanic activity. The mountains are composed largely of hard volcanic rock created by ancient eruptions, which later resisted erosion while surrounding softer rocks were worn away.
The magnificent U-shaped valley of Great Langdale was carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age. As we gain height, we can clearly observe classic glacial features including steep valley sides, corries, tarns and hanging valleys, all created by the immense power of moving ice. Stickle Tarn itself occupies a glacial hollow beneath the cliffs of Pavey Ark.
The slopes around Pike o’ Stickle and Harrison Stickle are home to one of Britain’s most important prehistoric industrial sites, the famous Langdale Axe Factory. Around 6,000 years ago Neolithic communities quarried the exceptionally hard green volcanic stone found high amongst these fells to manufacture polished stone axes, which were traded throughout Britain. Thousands of axes produced from Langdale stone have been discovered across the UK, demonstrating the significance of this remarkable prehistoric industry.
From the summits we can enjoy panoramic views across:
Meeting Time: 09:30
Meeting Point: Stickle Ghyll National Trust Car Park, Great Langdale, LA22 9JX
Parking is available at the National Trust Pay & Display Car Park at New Dungeon Ghyll (Stickle Ghyll). National Trust members may park free with a valid membership card.
Combining ancient volcanoes, Ice Age landscapes, prehistoric industry and five iconic summits, this classic Langdale circuit offers one of the most rewarding mountain experiences in the Lake District and is essential walking for every Wainwright enthusiast.
