Low Pike
This route is one to consider if you are staying in Ambleside and don’t wish to drive to explore the fells, as it starts in the town. Whilst the route itself is fairly straightforward, rocky outcrops and deep bogs are encountered on the way.
However, these can easily be avoided by simply taking a small diversion around, which is why we have rated it as medium difficulty. At the top, you can admire views of Windermere and Scafell Pike.
The Route
Low Pike and Windermere as seen from High Pike
(Mick Knapton / Wikipedia.org)
Follow Nook Lane away from the town until you reach the farm at the end, go through the farm and follow the track signposted as a public footpath. The track continues up through farmland, before dividing at Grid Ref NY 375 062.
Unless you are willing to attempt some tough scrambling, we suggest taking the path to the right which leads you below Sweden Crag and then re-joins the route the other side. After Sweden Crag, the route becomes quite boggy in places and we recommend going around these patches by climbing over the wall to the left.
The path continues up towards the summit where some scrambling is required. The summit itself if marked by a cairn. At this point, you can choose to turn back, but if you are feeling adventurous you can continue along the path up to High Pike.
Useful Information
Parking: There is plenty of pay and display parking available in the town of Ambleside, though during peak holiday periods you may have to wait a while before a space becomes available
Start Point: Grid Ref NY 376 047; The route starts at the beginning of Nook Lane, just off Smithy Brow
Summit: Grid Ref NY 373 078; 508 metres above sea level
Distance: Approximately 3 miles
Terrain: Mixture of rocky and grassy paths; Boggy in places; Some steep rocky outcrops that require scrambling but can be avoided
Total Time (Ascent & Descent): 3 hours
Suitable For: Adults with moderate fitness; Older children