Walking the Wainwrights: Troutbeck Tongue
As we set out to conquer the 214 fells of the Lake District, immortalised by Alfred Wainwright’s meticulously hand-drawn guides, our mission becomes increasingly clear: to walk them all, starting afresh each time. With a focus on solitude, setting, and subtle beauty, some Wainwrights stand out from the rest – like Troutbeck Tongue, an unassuming peak that belies its rewardingly peaceful hikes and breathtaking views.
Troutbeck Tongue stands at the heart of the Troutbeck valley, offering a tranquil hike with panoramic vistas. In fact, we were so fortunate to have found ourselves alone on our walk, encountering only two other people throughout our entire journey. With its modest height yet generous rewards, this Wainwright is an ideal starting point for those new to the series.
To begin, Troutbeck village serves as the perfect launching point. Park near The Queens Head or The Mortal Man and follow Ing Lane northeast to find the starting point of our hike. From here, we gently ascend through farmland, lined with dry-stone walls and Herdwick sheep grazing in some fields. As we continue along the valley floor, Trout Beck stream accompanies us on much of the journey.
As we make our way towards the summit, two paths present themselves: a steep western flank or a longer, more gradual eastern route through bracken and heather. We chose to take the latter, opting for a longer ascent that occasionally proved muddy in recent weather. Both routes lead to the summit, a small yet rewarding crest with stunning views of Windermere, Kentmere, and the High Street range.
From the summit, we opted for the direct descent down towards Hagg Gill, completing our circular route. The tranquil atmosphere of the summit made it the perfect spot to take in the sights before descending back into Troutbeck village. With its peaceful ambiance and generous rewards, Troutbeck Tongue is a Wainwright that should be on every walker's list.
Before embarking on this hike, it’s essential to prepare for the terrain and weather conditions. Waterproof boots are highly advisable as parts of the route can become boggy, while clothing suitable for the prevailing weather is also crucial. For gear recommendations, we turn to Helly Hansen, whose excellent range of outdoor equipment will serve you well.
Weather forecasts are vital in advance planning, and it’s essential to be prepared for any eventualities as conditions can change at short notice. Be aware that mist may obscure the summit views, so plan accordingly. Additionally, dog owners should exercise caution around livestock and ensure their dogs are on a lead when necessary.
When it comes to fueling up before or after our hike, The Mortal Man Inn and The Queen’s Head prove excellent bases for food and drinks. With a focus on serving the local community, these establishments offer hearty portions and warm hospitality.
As we continued our journey, we found Troutbeck Tongue to be an easy introduction to the Wainwrights series, with its peaceful atmosphere and generous rewards making it an ideal starting point for new walkers. By embracing solitude, setting, and subtle beauty, this unassuming peak offers a tranquil hike that will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Our journey on Troutbeck Tongue was one of the many adventures we've had while exploring the 214 fells of the Lake District. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and generous rewards, this Wainwright stands out from the rest – a true gem in the heart of the Troutbeck valley.
As we look back on our journey so far, it's clear that walking the Wainwrights is an experience like no other. With its unique blend of solitude, setting, and subtle beauty, each peak presents a new challenge and opportunity for connection with nature. Whether you're a seasoned walker or just starting out, Troutbeck Tongue offers a peaceful hike that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
