Dale Head Walk

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
3.9 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
380 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead
Dale Head Walk

The Dale Head Walk is a short and intense adventure that will take you uphill to the summit of Dale Head. While on the trail, you will traverse the steep and rugged hillside to experience some beautiful views over Buttermere and Honister Pass within the Lake District. It may only be a quick walk, but the steep incline is sure to give you a bit of a leg burn!

Download the 10Adventures App

View Dale Head Walk on Map

View Map

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Dale Head Walk

While the Dale Head Walk is only a short adventure, the rugged nature of the terrain and steep incline along the trail will surely provide a bit of resistance. Make sure to wear proper walking footwear and plenty of layers to better traverse the exposed landscape.

This quick Lake District walk offers a fast and intense uphill workout with the added bonus of some amazing scenery throughout the length of the trail. The route will see you climbing up the hillside right from the start, offering some beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. You will likely feel this one in your legs, as the climb is near-constant; however, the short overall length and wonderful scenery will have you forgetting about the physical nature of the trail in no time.

Setting out from the car park, follow the road to the northeast until it meets up with the B5289. Cross over to the other side and pick up the trail, following it north to begin the steep uphill climb toward the summit of Dale Head.

Keep straight uphill along the rugged hillside for 0.8 km, where you will arrive at a fork in the trail. Take the path on the left and continue to climb uphill, enjoying the views of High Scawdel on your right and Honister Pass on your left as you keep gaining elevation.

After 1.1 km of walking from the previous junction, you will arrive at the summit of Dale Head and be greeted with some spectacular views overlooking the undulating Lake District landscape. To the southwest, you will have a great sightline over the pass to Black Star and Fleetwith Pike, to the west you can see Buttermere nestled within the valley, and to the north you will have views over several peaks, such as Hindscarth and High Spy.

After enjoying the scenic views, carefully descend the mountainside along the same trail that you utilized to make your way up to the summit and you will arrive back at the car park in no time. From here, you can either head home straight away or head over to the Sky Hi Cafe for some refreshments.

Insider Hints for Dale Head Walk

  • This route features some steep and rugged terrain. Be sure to wear proper walking footwear.
  • Toilet facilities can be found near the car park.
  • Pop into the Sky Hi cafe for some pre or post-walk refreshments.

Getting to the Dale Head Walk Trailhead

To reach the car park for the Dale Head Walk from Keswick, make your way south along B5289 and take the first exit at the roundabout to get onto Borrowdale Road/B5289. Follow this for 13.5 km and turn left to enter the Honister Pass car park.

Route Information

  • When to do

    March-November

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Dale Head Walk Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Dale Head Walk Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Tours

Routes

Blogs