Sheffield Pike & Glenridding Dodd Walk
A rewarding fell walk in some of Ullswater’s most beautiful scenery, easily reached from the hotel by car or bus.
Route Info:
5 miles (8.5km) | Moderate / Strenuous | 520m ascent / descent | allow 3-3½hrs
Start: Glenridding village (car park or bus stop)
This varied circular walk from Glenridding climbs steadily to the broad col of Nick Head before reaching the summit of Sheffield Pike, one of the finest viewpoints above Ullswater. The route then continues along the ridge over Heron Pike before finishing with a short detour to Glenridding Dodd – a lower but perfectly positioned viewpoint above the village. Easily reached from the hotel either by a short drive to Glenridding or by taking the bus along Ullswater from Aira Force, it’s an excellent half-day outing with consistently rewarding views.
Highlights
Open this map on Komoot
Route description
Safety & practical information
Terrain: Fell paths with some steep sections on the ascent and descent. The ridge beyond the summit is exposed in places but follows clear paths throughout.
What to take: Map (OS OL5 – English Lakes NE), compass, waterproof clothing, warm layers, sturdy walking boots and sufficient food and water. A headtorch and basic first-aid kit are also recommended.
Other info: Although the paths are generally clear, mist and cloud can make navigation more challenging on the summit plateau. Check the weather forecast before setting out and allow sufficient time to complete the walk comfortably.
Start: Glenridding village (car park or bus stop)
This varied circular walk from Glenridding climbs steadily to the broad col of Nick Head before reaching the summit of Sheffield Pike, one of the finest viewpoints above Ullswater. The route then continues along the ridge over Heron Pike before finishing with a short detour to Glenridding Dodd – a lower but perfectly positioned viewpoint above the village. Easily reached from the hotel either by a short drive to Glenridding or by taking the bus along Ullswater from Aira Force, it’s an excellent half-day outing with consistently rewarding views.
Highlights
- Superb views over Ullswater throughout the walk
- A classic Wainwright summit (Sheffield Pike – 675m)
- Enjoyable walking across open fell
- Glenridding Dodd – a final, perfectly placed viewpoint
Open this map on Komoot
Route description
- Head north through the village, following a clear footpath that runs alongside the lakeshore road before turning inland towards the valley of Glencoyne.
- Follow the well-defined path as it climbs steadily, parallel to the beck, with views opening behind you over the southern end of Ullswater.
- Continue on the main path as it rises more directly to the broad col of Nick Head, where the ground levels briefly and the landscape opens out.
- From Nick Head, turn left and follow the clear path as it climbs steadily onto Sheffield Pike. The final section is steeper and a little rocky but remains straightforward.
- From the summit cairn (675m), enjoy wide views across Ullswater and towards the Helvellyn range.
- Continue along the ridge to Heron Pike, following a clear path across open ground, which can be boggy in places.
- Descend carefully from Heron Pike by initially bearing right, then picking up a steeper, rockier path that descends rapidly, and which can be slippery after rain.
- Continue down to the col below Glenridding Dodd, then take the short detour up to its summit for superb views over Glenridding and Ullswater.
- Retrace your steps briefly back down to the col, then continue steeply down the ongoing path (this section is known as ‘The Rake’) in a southerly direction, heading for Glenridding and the lake.
- You reach the old miners’ track by a line of cottages, where you turn left along the track as it brings you back to the village, perhaps stopping off at the Traveller’s Rest for a well-earned pint.
Safety & practical information
Terrain: Fell paths with some steep sections on the ascent and descent. The ridge beyond the summit is exposed in places but follows clear paths throughout.
What to take: Map (OS OL5 – English Lakes NE), compass, waterproof clothing, warm layers, sturdy walking boots and sufficient food and water. A headtorch and basic first-aid kit are also recommended.
Other info: Although the paths are generally clear, mist and cloud can make navigation more challenging on the summit plateau. Check the weather forecast before setting out and allow sufficient time to complete the walk comfortably.
Article | Walks
