Walking the Wainwrights: Troutbeck Tongue

Over the years, we’ve walked many of the Wainwrights — the 214 fells in the Lake District, immortalised by Alfred Wainwright’s meticulously hand-drawn guides. Some are towering peaks such as Scafell Pike (England‘s highest mountain) and Helvellyn, while others, like Troutbeck Tongue, are more unassuming, their magic found in their solitude, their setting, and their subtle beauty.

We’ve made it our mission to walk them all, starting afresh as we can’t be 100% sure on which we have and haven’t done. If you’re ever thinking of doing the same, Troutbeck Tongue is an easy one to get started. Modest in height yet rewarding in views (weather permitting), this Wainwright stands at the heart of the Troutbeck valley, and offers a peaceful hike with panoramic vistas – so peaceful for us, in fact, that we only encounter two other people the whole time we were out. Below is a detailed guide to help you plan and enjoy this walk.

• Start and parking: Troutbeck village is the ideal starting point for Troutbeck Tongue. There are numerous laybys in the vicinity of The Queens Head and The Mortal Man.
• Distance: Approximately 6 miles (10 km) when walked as a figure of 8
• Map: OS Explorer OL7 is recommended
• Navigation: Various downloadable route maps are available online but please don’t rely solely on gadgets to navigate!
• Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate (steep sections, uneven ground, potentially boggy during times of wet weather)
• Terrain: Farm tracks, grassy slopes, stone paths
• Facilities: Pubs and accommodation in Troutbeck; no amenities on the route

Begin in Troutbeck village, a picturesque collection of stone cottages and barns. If parking near the Queens Head, follow Ing Lane northeast. The path gently ascends through farmland, with dry-stone walls lining the route and Herdwick sheep in some of the fields.

Follow the track along the valley floor, passing Trout Beck stream, which will be a companion for much of the journey. You will see the grassy pyramid of Troutbeck Tongue ahead.

For the main ascent, you can choose your path. There’s the western flank – a steep but direct, grassy climb. Alternatively, you can do as we did, and take the eastern path – a longer, more gradual ascent through bracken and heather, occasionally muddy depending on recent weather.

Both routes lead to the summit, a small but rewarding crest with stunning views. Look south for glimpses of Windermere, north towards Kentmere, and east to the High Street range. The summit offers a quiet, contemplative spot, often free from crowds.

From the summit, you can choose between the two options that you had for the ascent. We took the direct route down to make this part of the walk a circular route, before dropping down towards Hagg Gill.

From here, you can cross the beck and follow the valley track which takes you back to Troutbeck.

Waterproof boots are advisable, as parts of the route can be boggy, as is appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.

Check out the excellent range of outdoor gear available from Helly Hansen.

Check weather forecasts in advance and be prepared for eventualities as conditions can change at short notice. Be aware that mist can obscure the summit views. Dogs are allowed on the route but you need to be mindful on livestock and put your dog on a lead when appropriate.

The Mortal Man Inn and The Queen’s Head are good bases for food and drinks pre- or post-walk.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Helly Hansen.