Lake District Sunset from Helvellyn summit

Worth The Trip

Helvellyn isn’t the easiest sunset walk in the Lake District, but that’s exactly why it’s special.

After an early dinner at The Travellers Rest, we set off from Glenridding and climbed via Red Tarn and Swirral Edge. By the time we reached the summit, the crowds had disappeared and the whole Lake District seemed to be glowing beneath us.

Standing on the summit watching the sun drop behind the fells is one of those moments that reminds you why you travel and explore in the first place. My love for the mountains is always at its peak during moments like this. The rest of the world simply doesn’t matter, and the smile on my face says a thousand words.

After a cup of hot chocolate and a few photos later, we headed briskly down. The descent in the dark isn’t for everyone, we left the summit promptly and walked swiftly and only needed a head torch for the last half a mile. If you’re prepared and comfortable on the hills, the reward is unforgettable.

Helvellyn is the third-highest mountain in both England, standing at 950 meters (3,116 feet). Located between the lakes of Thirlmere and Ullswater.

We stayed at the Hillside Camp Site bunkhouse in Glenridding, after an early dinner at The Travellers Rest, we headed up towards Red Tarn, then Swirral Edge (a nice fairly easy scramble) where we then popped up on Helvellyn.

Start: Glenridding