Whinlatter
A giant playground for fans of walking, cycling, and climbing, Whinlatter Forest is one of the Lake District’s crowns when it comes to outdoor activities.
This walk takes you through the forest playground and up to the summit and open plain of Whinlatter Top with panoramic views. Afterwards, treat yourself to a cake in the café located within the visitor centre.
Route
Whinlatter fell as seen from Graystones
(Mick Knapton / Wikipedia.org)
Start at the visitor centre and follow the path marked in green that leads away from the back of it. You will come to a crossroads (identified by the Forestry Commission as the Horsebox Crossroads – Junction Marker 2) at Grid Ref NY 207 248.
Turn left and follow this track to its conclusion at Grid Ref NY 203 247 (Junction Marker 55) where you find a stile that leads onto a grassy path. This path runs alongside the forest boundary for a while, before heading off towards the summit at Grid Ref NY 197 249.
Useful Information
Parking: There is lots of parking available at the Whinlatter Visitor Centre, Grid Ref NY 206 246, which is accessible via the Whinlatter Pass; This parking is pay and display and is quite expensive compared to other car parks in the area, but there are toilets and other facilities
Start Point: Grid Ref NY 206 246; There are a number of paths leading from the visitor centre, and initially you need to take the track that leads up from the back of the centre
Summit: Grid Ref NY 197 249; 525 metres above sea level
Distance: Approximately 3 miles
Terrain: Gravelled track to start, and then onto a grassy path, which becomes boggy towards the top; Gentle incline throughout
Total Time (Ascent & Descent): 2 hours
Suitable For: Adults with moderate fitness; Older children; All-terrain pushchairs and younger children may struggle through boggy patches