Pike of Blisco & Crinkle Crags - 8 Miles
Details
Starting from the iconic Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, this is a classic high-level Lakeland walk taking in some of the most rugged and rewarding terrain in the area.
We begin by heading out across the lower slopes of Wrynose Fell, steadily gaining height as the Langdale Valley opens out behind us. The route climbs up onto Pike of Blisco (705m), a superb viewpoint offering sweeping panoramas across the Langdale Pikes, Coniston Fells, and Scafell range.
From here, we dip slightly before continuing on to Great Knott, a quieter fell that acts as a stepping stone toward the more dramatic terrain ahead. The real highlight comes next as we traverse onto the rugged ridge of Crinkle Crags. This distinctive chain of rocky tops—five “crinkles” in total—provides one of the most exciting ridge walks in the Lake District, with hands-on sections and a real sense of exposure in places.
After soaking in the views (and perhaps a well-earned rest), we begin our descent via Hell Gill. This steep and dramatic gully cuts down toward the valley, eventually easing off as we pass the beautiful Whorneyside Force waterfall—a great spot to pause before the final stretch back.
We return to the Old Dungeon Ghyll for a well earned drink.
Walk Details
- Distance: ~ 8 miles
- Ascent: ~900–1,000m
- Difficulty: Hard (steep ascents, rough ground, some scrambling)
- Estimated Time: 6–7 hours
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What to Expect
This is a challenging but incredibly rewarding walk, with a mix of grassy paths, rocky scrambles, and airy ridges. Good fitness, appropriate footwear, and experience on rough terrain are essential.
Parking / Camping Options
I will be staying Friday and Saturday night at Baysbrown Camp Site, a bit further down the Langdale Valley. Anybody who wants to make a weekend of it is welcome to join me. You don’t have to book at this camp site, you just turn up and the cost is £15 per night.
If you’re arriving on the day you will need to arrive early if you want to park at Old Dungeon Ghyll as all the spaces usually get taken up pretty quickly. An alternative is to park in Ambleside and get the 516 bus from outside King Street Car Park in Ambleside. The bus times are 9.25am and 10.35am. Bus back is 6.08pm and 8.08pm.