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Helm Crag summit

Helm Crag summit

Highlight • Summit

Helm Crag summit

Hiking

5.0

(458)

Running

5.0

(1)

Standing proud above the famously picturesque pastures of Grasmere, walking routes to Helm Crag are splendidly accessible, boasting famous rock formations and superb views. It is one of the most …

This Highlight is in a protected area

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Lake District National Park

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Location: Lakes, South Lakeland, Cumbria, North West England, England, United Kingdom

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Tips

David Howells

April 29, 2026

Hiking

Helm Crag summit is quite a unique Wainwright top. It forms the southeastern section of a nice rambling ridge that includes a trio of Wainwrights, including Calf Crag and Gibson Knott. Whilst not very high, it has a dramatic rocky summit area known as 'The Lion and the Lamb' and a slabbed shark-fin slab of rock called 'The Howitzer', which is the true summit of Helm Crag. The Howitzer can be a real scrambling test, but it is not for the faint-hearted. There are fantastic views to be had from here looking down over Grasmere village and lake.

Trail Magazine

December 13, 2019

Hiking

Rising gently over picturesque Grasmere, Helm Crag initially appears dumpy and unremarkable – and then you spot its knobbly, gnarled summit. Beyond the rocky excrescence of The Lion and The Lamb lies The Howitzer, a fear-inducing slab of angled rock for brave scramblers only. It’s the Wainwright summit even Alfred wimped out of.

Cragsman Daz

June 29, 2023

Hiking

1st time doing it in reverse .a local said it was more of a challenge

Nearby routes

Best routes near Helm Crag summit

4.8

(171)

760

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#1.

Helm Crag loop from Grasmere— Lake District National Park

7.37km

02:26

300m

Embark on the moderate Helm Crag loop from Grasmere, a rewarding hike covering 4.6 miles (7.4 km) with an elevation gain of 995 feet (303 metres). This trail, typically completed…

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Moderate

4.7

(193)

1,317

hikers

#2.

Calf Crag – Helm Crag summit loop from Grasmere

13.9km

04:34

590m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.8

(118)

801

hikers

#3.

Gibson Knott summit – Gibson Knott loop from Seat Sandal

13.4km

04:24

570m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 440 m

Good to know

Family Friendly

yes

Wheelchair access

Dog Friendly

yes

Weather

Friday 19 June

20°C

9°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h

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See nearby routes

Take Me There

Location: Lakes, South Lakeland, Cumbria, North West England, England, United Kingdom

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Helm Crag summit

#1.

Helm Crag loop from Grasmere— Lake District National Park

#2.

Calf Crag – Helm Crag summit loop from Grasmere

#3.

Gibson Knott summit – Gibson Knott loop from Seat Sandal

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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