Silver How

Hikes to Silver How take you to a lovely perch where you can imbibe the very essence of the Lake District’s romantic heartland and dreamily gaze off towards bristling mountain peaks. Rising steeply above the picturesque shores of Grasmere and with high mountains decorating the horizon, few fells are as beautifully situated.

Whilst the panorama discovered from its grassy summit is marvellous, its finest feature is perhaps the east facing crags that tumble to the lake below. A rough mixture of rock, bracken, juniper and conifer set above the shimmering blue of Grasmere creates a scene of quintessential Lakeland charm. It is no wonder Wordsworth was so besotted with this landscape.

A gorgeous fell of quintessential Lakeland charm

You’re spoilt for choice as to where to start your hike to Silver How. The surrounding villages of Grasmere, Chapel Stile and Elterwater are all positively idyllic. Nearby Ambleside also makes for a great base. This mecca for lovers of the outdoors boasts numerous gear shops, pubs, restaurants and cafes - all primed to inspire your adventures.

All walking routes to Silver How are beautiful and make for good family days out. Gills babble as they make their way down the hillside, waterfalls tumble from the high reaches and bracken sways in the breeze. A number of rounded knolls adorn the extensive summit area, with the true apex found lording it over the steep Grasmere face.

Winter is a great time to hike to Silver How’s summit, when the view is enhanced by the impression of the highest fells being transformed into serious, snow-clad mountains. The view to Helm Crag’s distinctive summit, backed by the western wall of Helvellyn’s range, is magnificent. For romantics, the vale of Grasmere and its lake surely steal the show, contrasting starkly with the bristly outline of the Coniston and Langdale groups in the opposite direction.