
Wasdale
Lake District
Off Route Score
9.5 / 10
The wild side of the Lakes.
The Experience
A wilder side of the Lake District. Wastwater sits beneath some of England's most imposing mountains and the journey into the valley feels like part of the adventure.
Best for mountains, hiking, photography, big landscapes. Take your time, read the conditions and let the place set the pace.

Quick Info
Best for
Mountains, Hiking, Photography
Best time
Spring to Autumn
Allow
Full day
Difficulty
Moderate to Challenging
Hiking
Exceptional
Location Map
Getting There
Navigation takes you to Wasdale Head, Cumbria, a recognised arrival point for the area. Roads here can be narrow and slow, so take your time and enjoy the journey.
Gallery
Practical Information
Parking
Use designated car parks and lay-bys only. Never block passing places, gates or access tracks. Check current local information for any charges.
Walks
Routes range from short strolls to full days out. Choose a route that suits your experience and the conditions on the day.
Facilities
Facilities can be limited or seasonal in remote areas. Bring food, water and layers, and check what is open before travelling.
Mobile signal
Do not rely on mobile signal. Download offline maps and tell someone your plans before heading out.
UNROUTED Verdict
"The road ends. The adventure doesn't."
Before you go off route
Weather changes. Roads close. Trails deteriorate and phone signal can disappear.
Check current local information before setting off, respect private land, local communities and wildlife, park responsibly and leave the place exactly as you found it.
Off Route. On Purpose.
Keep Going Off Route
All 10 places
06Ennerdale
Lake District
9.4 /10
One of the quieter valleys of the Lake District. Leave the busy roads behind and explore a landscape where walking and cycling take over.
- Walking
- Forest
- Solitude
- Wildlife
07The Cheviots
Northumberland
9.2 /10
Rolling moorland, huge horizons and very little development make the Cheviots feel surprisingly remote. This is border country built for walking.
- Hiking
- Solitude
- Big Views
- Wildlife
08Black Mountains
Bannau Brycheiniog, Wales
9.2 /10
Ridges, valleys and enormous Welsh views without always following the crowds towards the most obvious destinations.
- Hiking
- Ridge Walks
- Views
- Photography
