Britain's Peaks
oak woodlands, fells and a multitude of lakes, meres, tarns and reservoirs. England’s tallest mountain, Scafell Pike, is one of a horseshoe of soaring fells and the highest ground for over 90 miles. On a clear day ramblers are rewarded with incredible views over the surrounding crags and valleys. There are several ascent routes but the summit can only be reached by negotiating some wicked-looking boulder fields. It’s well worth the effort though, not only for the views, but also for the incredible sense of peace and tranquillity that can be experienced in this remote and lofty place. Scafell Pike and its neighbouring southern
fells make this area an important one for walkers. And of course no description of the Lake District would be complete without a mention of one of its greatest advocates – Alfred Wainwright. His seven-volume Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells (1955–1966) has sold over two million copies. Visiting all 214 ‘Wainwrights’ is a feat few achieve, but exploring a selection of these southern peaks, including the Old Man of Coniston, Great End, Esk Pike, Bowfell and the Crinkle Crags to name a few, affords some of the best walks in the country and often without another soul in sight.
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You don’t have to be feeling energetic to
enjoy the splendour of the Lakes, however. Luxuriate in the spa at The Langdale Hotel near Lake Windermere, or take a stroll in its woodland grounds, interspersed with sparkling streams and tams. You can channel your inner bard at the
Buttermere Scafell Pike
DISTRICT LAKE Ulverston
YORKSHIRE DALES
NORTH YORK MOORS
Scarborough York Blackpool
Vale of Grasmere, where William Wordsworth made his home, and enjoy spectacular panoramas in every direction while jotting down your poetic musings. A springtime visit to Glencoyne Bay on the western shores of Ullswater is said to have stimulated Wordsworth to write his most famous poem, Daffodils. You could follow in his footsteps, try a spot of boating on Grasmere Lake, or take a picnic to beautiful Buttermere or Loweswater, surrounded by dramatic high fells, to enjoy the serene views. Bearing west now, towards the last of
Britain’s three peaks, Snowdon has yet another distinct personality. The early English gave it the name Snowdon, but it was called ‘Eryri’ by the Britons because of the eagles that made it their home. Towering 1,085 metres (3,560ft) above sea level in the stunning Snowdonia National Park, it boasts some incredible views towards the Irish
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PHOTOS: ©NTPL/JOE CORNISH/ISTOCK
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