The Eastern Fells

Heron Pike

612m | 2008ft

Heron Pike is a fell in the English Lake District, two kilometres east of Grasmere. It is part of the Fairfield group in the Eastern Fells. It should not be confused with the Heron Pike that forms part of Sheffield Pike, although it appears that, by coincidence, both Heron Pikes are exactly the same height.

Popular Routes

Rydal Round
Distance: 11.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
A circular walk starting from Rydal, taking in Heron Pike, Great Rigg, and Fairfield before descending via Nab Scar.
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Grasmere to Heron Pike
Distance: 8.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting from Grasmere, this route ascends via Stone Arthur and continues to Heron Pike, offering stunning views over Grasmere and Rydal Water.
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Ambleside via Nab Scar
Distance: 10km
Difficulty: Moderate
This route begins in Ambleside, climbing via Nab Scar to Heron Pike, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding fells and lakes.
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Parking

Rydal Road Car Park
A convenient car park for starting the Rydal Round route, located near the village of Rydal.
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Broadgate Meadow Car Park
Located in Grasmere, this car park is ideal for those starting the Grasmere to Heron Pike route.
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Rothay Park Car Park
Situated in Ambleside, this car park is a good starting point for the Ambleside via Nab Scar route.
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Public Transport

The 555 and 599 bus services connect Windermere, Ambleside, and Grasmere, providing access to the starting points of the routes.
Buses run regularly from Windermere to Ambleside and Grasmere.

Closest Towns

Ambleside
A bustling town with plenty of amenities, including shops, cafes, and outdoor gear stores.
Grasmere
A picturesque village known for its connections to the poet William Wordsworth and its charming atmosphere.
Rydal
A small village near Rydal Water, offering a peaceful starting point for walks in the area.

Pubs & Restaurants

The Badger Bar
A traditional pub offering hearty meals and a selection of local ales, perfect for post-walk refreshments.
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The Jumble Room
A quirky and popular restaurant in Grasmere, known for its creative menu and cozy atmosphere.
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The Unicorn Inn
A welcoming pub in Ambleside with a great selection of food and drinks, ideal for relaxing after a day on the fells.
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Good to know

Weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, so be prepared for rain and wind even in summer.
Some sections of the routes can be steep and rocky, requiring good footwear and care, especially in wet conditions.
Heron Pike offers stunning views over the surrounding lakes and fells, making it a rewarding climb.
Ensure you have a map and compass, as some paths can be less defined, especially in poor visibility.
Look out for local wildlife, including red squirrels and a variety of bird species.