Loughrigg Fell (Ambleside)
Cumbria
Loughrigg Fell stands at just 335 metres but delivers views that rival fells twice its height, with Windermere, Grasmere and Rydal Water all visible from the rocky summit plateau. The 10.5km circuit from Ambleside climbs through bracken and open fell, passing Loughrigg Tarn, a quiet pool backed by the Langdale Pikes, before reaching the top. The descent can be routed along Loughrigg Terrace above Grasmere for one of the Lake District's finest viewpoints. With 430 metres of ascent spread across manageable gradients, this is a proper fell day that never feels punishing.
The bracken carries a sharp green scent in summer and rich earthiness in autumn, and Loughrigg Tarn is a reliable swimming spot that most dogs make a beeline for. This dog friendly walk offers good off-lead potential across the upper fell where the ground is largely unfenced, though leads are needed on the lower approaches from Ambleside where paths cross enclosed farmland with grazing sheep. The ground can be boggy around the tarn margins after wet weather. Ambleside has plentiful dog-friendly pubs and cafés for afterwards, including the Golden Rule on Smithy Brow. Suits fit dogs that enjoy open fell and water, and works well as a half-day when proper mountain views are non-negotiable but time is limited.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 10.5 km (6.5 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 3 hr
- Walk Type
- Peak, Forest
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Full range of cafés and pubs in Ambleside at the start and finish
- Parking
- Pay and display on Rydal Road, Ambleside (LA22 9AY); also roadside parking along Under Loughrigg road closer to the fell.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Loughrigg Fell (Ambleside) dog friendly?
Loughrigg Fell rates 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness, making it a strong choice for a fell day out with your dog. The open upper fell offers good off-lead potential, Loughrigg Tarn is a reliable swimming spot that most dogs love, and Ambleside has plenty of dog-friendly cafés and pubs , including the Golden Rule on Smithy Brow , waiting at the end.
Can dogs be off lead at Loughrigg Fell (Ambleside)?
There's good off-lead potential across the upper fell, where the ground is largely unfenced and open. That said, leads are needed on the lower approaches from Ambleside, where paths cross enclosed farmland with grazing sheep, so you'll want to keep that in mind at the start and finish of the route.
What should I know before visiting Loughrigg Fell (Ambleside) with my dog?
The ground around the margins of Loughrigg Tarn can get boggy after wet weather, so be prepared for muddy paws in that area. The walk involves 430 metres of ascent over 10.5km, so it suits fit dogs that are comfortable on open fell terrain , it's a proper outing, even if the gradients are generally manageable.
Loughrigg Fell, Westmorland and Furness, England, LA22 9HF, United Kingdom
54.4259, -2.9925
Get DirectionsWhat’s Nearby?
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Excellent riverside access, relaxed off-lead potential and a dog-friendly café at the finish make this one of the most enjoyable easy walks in the Lakes.
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Gentle, accessible circuit with good water access and relaxed off-lead potential; leads needed near the car park and in busier sections.
