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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
829 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
9.8 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4-5.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Expert (Double Diamond)
Suitable only for experts looking for a challenging adventure.
Physical DIFF
Advanced (Diamond)
Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Swirl How and Wetherlam Circular Walk

Swirl How and Wetherlam Circular Walk
Measurement:

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Table of contents

Walking the Swirl How and Wetherlam Circular is an amazing adventure that will lead you over several summits for some breathtaking views overlooking the surrounding valleys and fells of the Lake District. While out on the trail, walkers will traverse some open farmland and cross the River Brathay before climbing up the steep hillside to reach a series of scenic viewpoints. This route will give you the opportunity to summit Great Carrs, Swirl How, and Wetherlam, all while taking in the views of Greenburn and the Little Langdale Valley further afield.

Route Description for Swirl How and Wetherlam Circular Walk

Although the Swirl How and Wetherlam Circular Walk features a fair bit of elevation gain and will see you traverse several peaks, it is surprisingly not too difficult or technical. Still, there are some sections of rocky terrain and a few inclines, making proper walking boots a necessity. Be sure to arrive early to secure parking, as the layby next to the trailhead is very small.

Setting out from your vehicle, the trail will take you to the southwest across an open stretch of farmland, before crossing over the River Brathay to begin the climb up the hillside. Here, you will traverse the rugged terrain of Wet Side Edge and Little Carrs before continuing along the escarpment to reach Great Carrs and Swirl How. This section of the walk features some beautiful views overlooking the Greenburn Reservoir below, so make sure to enjoy them as you trek across the rocky landscape. Continue along the trail to the northeast for a slight climb uphill that will bring you to the summit of Wetherlam. After taking in some more amazing views, the trail will lead you downhill into the valley to cross over Greenburn Beck and the River Brathay once more on the return to the trailhead where you began.

Getting to the Swirl How and Wetherlam Circular Walk Trailhead

To reach the parking area for the Swirl How and Wetherlam CircularWalk from Skelwith Bridge, drive southwest on A593 for 1.0mi and make a right, continuing on for the next 0.4mi. Make a left onto Side Gates and follow it for 1.9mi, keeping left onto Wrynose Pass. After 0.4mi, you will find a layby on the left next to a trailhead.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    March-October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Swirl How and Wetherlam Circular Walk Elevation Graph

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