Helvellyn From Glenridding Swirrels Edge: 6 Miles Anti-Clockwise Circular Route

Helvellyn is one of the most popular mountains for hikers in the Lake District. Famous for its stunning ridge line — Striding Edge — this stunning mountain is certainly my favourite in this part of the world. As with most mountains, there are several ways to summit Helvellyn and this anti-clockwise route starts off in the village of Glenridding and ascends via Swirrals Edge and descends via Striding Edge.

You can complete the clock-wise route which ascends via Striding Edge and descends Swirrals Edge. Although Striding Edge takes all of the plaudits with hillwalkers, this should not detract from the similarly tricky and beautiful Swirrals Edge. I’ve hiked this route a couple of times in various weather conditions, and you need to keep your wits about you no matter the hiking conditions.

Helvellyn Swirrals Edge anti-clockwise route description

Stage 1 – Glenridding car park to Swirrals Edge

Ascending via Swirrals Edge first is the counter-clockwise route to summit Helvellyn. This route is often considered a slightly easier start to summit rather than the clock-wise route where you ascend via Striding Edge first. Leaving the car park, follow the road past the shops and Glenridding Beck and keep right on the bridleway which will lead you past Gillside campsite. On Greenside Road there is a sign pointing you towards the start of the hike, this path will lead you to a gate. At the gate turn right and follow the path that sweeps round the slopes of Birkhouse Moor.

You will soon need to cross a footbridge crossing Red Tarn Beck. Continue along the path which climbs towards Red Tarn. As you get closer to Red Tarn the path turns to the right and you begin a steep ascent towards Swirrals Edge. Great care should be taken ascending up Swirrals Edge — Striding Edge might be the more famous neighbour, but this scramble can be equally tricky. Once completed you will reach the summit plateau and from here summit Helvellyn. If you have good weather you will be treated to breathtaking views.

Stage 2 – Helvellyn summit descending via Striding Edge

The descent via Striding Edge is a tricky one. The initial path is rocky and it is important to take care to avoid slips or trips. There are paths lower down rather than heading over the crest of Striding Edge itself, however, if you opt for the crest be prepared to tackle the five ‘towers’. These all have steep ascents and descents and tackling Striding Edge from this route means you will tackle the most difficult ‘tower’ first.

Whichever route you take, Striding Edge is without a doubt one of the best ridge walks in England. Having navigated your way over Striding Edge you now begin the descent back towards Glenridding — you will reach ‘Hole in the Wall’. From here you can follow the path back down to the start of the walk on Greenside Road.

Where to eat and drink after hiking Helvellyn from Glenridding

There are plenty of places to eat and drink following a good day hiking Helvellyn. On our visits we so far we have just headed for The Travellers Rest on Greenside Road for a quick pint before making the journey back to Manchester. It is a lovely little pub, that welcomes muddy boots and muddy paws. You’ll find a good selection of real ales, and typical pub grub.

The Ullswater Inn — this cosy pub with rooms offers delicious homecooked food daily, expect your pub favourites in beautiful and welcoming surroundings.

⚠️ Safety Warning – Helvellyn & Striding Edge
Helvellyn and the Striding Edge route are extremely challenging and dangerous, particularly in poor weather. The exposed ridge, steep drops, and unpredictable conditions have led to numerous accidents and fatalities over the years.

Only experienced and well-prepared hikers should attempt this route. Proper equipment, good visibility, and strong navigation skills are essential. Always check weather forecasts and be ready to turn back if conditions worsen.

Your safety is more important than reaching the summit.

Pics from the peaks – more from Helvellyn