Our first time up Helvellyn was with our two oldest daughters over the Christmas period.

The weather was clear and crisps with a small layer of ice/snow on the ground.

We took the direct path from Swirls car park.

It is well sign posted, very steep but stone steps for most of the way there is a slight scramble as you reach Browncove crags and then a more gentle incline to the summit.

It is a very popular walk as its the most direct route, you can also walk from Wythburn car park which is slightly longer but not as steep, the route from Glenridding comes up to red tarn, then you can the option of Swirral or striding edge which we have not done yet, or should I say not braved.

In bad weather i would avoid as the terrain will become more dangerous, also in poor visibility its enough to become disorientated on the summit.

MORE DETAILS

http://www.wainwrightroutes.co.uk/helvellyn_r1.htm