Strolling the Wainwrights: Troutbeck Tongue

Through the years, we’ve walked most of the Wainwrights — the 214 fells within the Lake District, immortalised by Alfred Wainwright’s meticulously hand-drawn guides. Some are towering peaks akin to Scafell Pike (England‘s highest mountain) and Helvellyn, whereas others, like Troutbeck Tongue, are extra unassuming, their magic discovered of their solitude, their setting, and their refined magnificence.

We’ve made it our mission to stroll all of them, beginning afresh as we will’t be 100% certain on which now we have and haven’t accomplished. In case you’re ever considering of doing the identical, Troutbeck Tongue is a straightforward one to get began. Modest in peak but rewarding in views (climate allowing), this Wainwright stands on the coronary heart of the Troutbeck valley, and provides a peaceable hike with panoramic vistas – so peaceable for us, in truth, that we solely encounter two different folks the entire time we have been out. Beneath is an in depth information that will help you plan and luxuriate in this stroll.

Key data

• Begin and parking: Troutbeck village is the best place to begin for Troutbeck Tongue. There are quite a few laybys within the neighborhood of The Queens Head and The Mortal Man.
• Distance: Roughly 6 miles (10 km) when walked as a determine of 8
• Map: OS Explorer OL7 is really useful
• Navigation: Varied downloadable route maps can be found on-line however please don’t rely solely on devices to navigate!
• Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
• Problem: Average (steep sections, uneven floor, doubtlessly boggy throughout occasions of moist climate)
• Terrain: Farm tracks, grassy slopes, stone paths
• Amenities: Pubs and lodging in Troutbeck; no facilities on the route

The route

Start in Troutbeck village, a picturesque assortment of stone cottages and barns. If parking close to the Queens Head, observe Ing Lane northeast. The trail gently ascends by farmland, with dry-stone partitions lining the route and Herdwick sheep in among the fields.

Comply with the observe alongside the valley flooring, passing Trout Beck stream, which can be a companion for a lot of the journey. You will note the grassy pyramid of Troutbeck Tongue forward.

For the primary ascent, you’ll be able to select your path. There’s the western flank – a steep however direct, grassy climb. Alternatively, you are able to do as we did, and take the jap path – an extended, extra gradual ascent by bracken and heather, sometimes muddy relying on current climate.

Each routes result in the summit, a small however rewarding crest with gorgeous views. Look south for glimpses of Windermere, north in the direction of Kentmere, and east to the Excessive Road vary. The summit provides a quiet, contemplative spot, usually free from crowds.

From the summit, you’ll be able to select between the 2 choices that you simply had for the ascent. We took the direct route right down to make this a part of the stroll a round route, earlier than dropping down in the direction of Hagg Gill.

From right here, you’ll be able to cross the beck and observe the valley observe which takes you again to Troutbeck.

Some further ideas

Waterproof boots are advisable, as components of the route could be boggy, as is acceptable clothes for the climate situations.

Try the superb vary of outside gear accessible from Helly Hansen.

Examine climate forecasts prematurely and be ready for eventualities as situations can change at quick discover. Bear in mind that mist can obscure the summit views. Canines are allowed on the route however it’s worthwhile to be aware on livestock and put your canine on a lead when applicable.

The Mortal Man Inn and The Queen’s Head are good bases for meals and drinks pre- or post-walk.

Disclosure: This publish is sponsored by Helly Hansen.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxurious Journey Weblog and has labored within the journey business for greater than 30 years. He’s Winner of the Improvements in Journey ‘Finest Journey Influencer’ Award from WIRED journal. Along with different awards, the weblog has additionally been voted “one of many world’s greatest journey blogs” and “greatest for luxurious” by The Telegraph.