Kate A
12 February 2021
When it comes to writing about the easy way up a Lake District fell, there are few that are easier than Latrigg on account of the fact that you can drive most of the way to the top! It’s one of the lowest fells but not quite the lowest of the Wainwrights, coming in at 206 out of 214. However, the eight fells that are lower than it haven’t got car parks a few metres from the summit! The entire walk covers 1.5 miles and takes roughly 1 hour. If you want a more challenging 'easy' walk, you can start from the same point, and instead, head up the well-marked path to the summit of Skiddaw.
This is a short and easy walk with amazing scenery all along the way. There’s also an easy access path, which leads all the way to the top of Latrigg and is ideal for wheelchair users or if you have kids in buggies.
Please be aware: although this route is described as 'easy' you should still be properly prepared for walking on the fells. Proper boots, warm and waterproof clothing, food, a torch (just in case) and a map and compass (or other reliable navigation aid) are a must.
The ascent
Drive to the hamlet of Applethwaite (1 mile away from Keswick) and park at the top of Applethwaite Lane in the roadside car park. From the car park, walk west through a few stile gates and you’ll see the path that takes you all the way up to Latrigg. The trail is clearly marked, and you simply follow it round the high circular of west-facing Latrigg to reach the south-facing viewpoint. This is a wonderful spot to enjoy a picnic together while admiring the lovely outlook before you make your way back down.
The descent
You have a few choices for your route back, the easiest being to return the way you came. Otherwise, follow the track north-east to a wood and then north-west back to the car park. A third option is to head south down a relatively steep path and onto Whinny Brow. You can then do a clockwise lap around Latrigg until you join the Cumbria Way and continue on your circular route until you arrive back at your starting point.
Refuel
After you've changed out of your walking boots and rested your legs, we recommend heading either to The Sun Inn in Bassenthwaite for a good pub lunch, or driving into Keswick and choosing from the fabulous range of cafés, pubs and restaurants. For help selecting your perfect eatery, take a look at our guide to eating out in Keswick.
You can be within easy reach of Latrigg when you stay at one of our holiday cottages in Keswick, Bassenthwaite or the North West Lake District.
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Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.