Langdale Pikes Circular Walk

Route Description for Langdale Pikes Circular Walk

The Langdale Pikes Circular Walk is a lengthy journey to a number of summit viewpoints that will lead you through some rocky and rugged terrain. Because of this, it is recommended that you wear study walking boots with good ankle support to stay comfortable on the slow-going trail. The trail is also fairly exposed to the elements, so be sure to wear plenty of layers and pack any additional gear you may need.

Even though the trail is a bit rough and rugged, there is a good reason why it is one of the most popular walking routes in the Lake District. The path traverses a number of summit viewpoints that produce some truly spectacular views overlooking the valley of Great Langdale. This walk is pretty much a right of passage before moving on to some of the bigger fells in the district, so be prepared for an amazing journey with ultra-scenic views.

Setting out from the car park, head northeast along the trail and turn left at the first junction, following the path past the buildings and through the tree cover to arrive at a four way intersection in the trail. Head right here, keeping straight along the trail for the next 0.2 km to cross over Stickle Ghyll and Mill Gill, eventually reaching a junction. Turn right here and follow the path to begin the steep uphill climb through the rugged terrain that will take you roughly 1.4 km to the summit of Blea Rigg.

After arriving at the summit, head west along the trail and keep straight for 0.4 km before turning right to cut across a marshy stretch of terrain. From here, keep straight for the next 1.5 km to continue gaining elevation along the hillside until you arrive at the summit of Sergeant Man. There are a fair number of intersecting trails here, so keep an eye on your GPS and continue to the west as you enjoy the scenic views overlooking the waters of Stickle Tarn to the south and the rest of the peaks that lay ahead on the route.

From the summit of Sergeant Man, you will arrive at a junction in the trail in 1.2 km. Keep right here and you will climb slightly uphill to arrive at the summit of Thunacar Knott. From here, follow the path east for 0.5 km to reach the summit of Pavey Ark with its amazing views overlooking the tarn below. Turn right along the path here and keep right for the next 0.5 km to walk the edge of the hilltop and enjoy some breathtaking views over Great Langdale and the undulating landscape of the surrounding area.

At the junction, turn left and follow the trail south as it climbs slightly uphill along some rocky and rugged terrain to reach the summit of Harrison Stickle. From here, follow the trail to the northwest for 128 m, where you will come to a four-way junction. Turn left and descend the hillside for the next 0.7 km to eventually reach the craggy and easily recognizable summit of Pike of Stickle. This rocky peak offers a great view over the valley below and the fells directly opposite to the southwest.

After taking in the views, head southeast for 0.6 km to reach the summit of Loft Crag, before arriving at a junction. Turn right here and begin your descent along the rugged hillside, keeping straight along the trail for 1.5 km until you arrive at a viewpoint overlooking the rushing waters of Dungeon Ghyll Force. After taking in the sights of the waterfall, continue southeast along the trail for 0.6 km to arrive back at the car park having completed the Langdale Pikes Circular.

Trail Highlights

The Langdale Pikes

Constituting one of the most popular walks in the Lake District, the Langdale Pikes (Pavey Ark, Thunacar Knott, Pike of Stickle, and Harrison Stickle) are a series of rugged fells that are packed quite close together and stand high above the valley of Great Langdale. Most recognizable of the peaks is Pike of Stickle, which is an impressive lump of rock that looms over the valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Langdale Pikes are there?

There are four different fells that make up the Langdale Pikes. These include Pike of Stickle, Harrison Stickle, Pavey Ark, and Thunacar Knott. Along this walk, you will also traverse Loft Crag, Sergeant Man, and Blea Rigg. Some walkers choose to extend the route a bit further north to include the summit of High Raise as well.

Insider Hints for Langdale Pikes Circular Walk

• There are some steep and rugged sections of trail on this walk, be sure to wear sturdy walking boots for the best footing.
• If you want to extend your walk to include another peak, head north from Sergeant Man for a quick detour to High Raise.
• Toilet facilities can be found near the trailhead.
• Sticklebarn is a great spot for some post-walk drinks to celebrate conquering this trail.