Helvellyn: Private Guiding

The third highest summit in England and one of the most popular, Helvellyn is rightly popular. The highest point on the long ridge rising above Ambleside to Red Screes at it southern end and terminating in Clough Head above Threlkeld at it's northern extremity.

The gentle slopes to the west of the summit descend to Wythburn and Thirlmere, to the east the picture is drastically different, steep crags drop down to Red Tarn, encircled on either side by two magnificent arêtes, Swirral Edge descends above the northern shores of Red Tarn to the satellite summit of Catstycam while Striding Edge, probably the most famous route in the Lake District, descends above the southern shore of the tarn to Birkhouse Moor.

The two edges, Striding Edge and Swirral Edge make a magnificent route for those who like a little exposure, although in winter conditions this is a serious route and extreme care should be taken.