The trail starts on Stock Ghyll Lane behiind the Market Hall. Follow the path into Stock Ghyll Park and climb up through the woods to Stock Ghyll Force. Cross over the footbridge above the falls and follow the paved lane, then take the next right- hand path leading up the fell side towards Wansfell Pike. Continue climbing before crossing over a drystone wall and making your final push towards the summit, from where you'll have grandstand views over Windermere, Ambleside and the distant Langdale range.

From the top, follow the marker cairns along the eastern path before connecting with Nanny Lane, which eventually winds down to Troutbeck where here's a choice of pubs to quench your thirst. A little to the north, the Mortal Man has the best views, or if you have time you can visit the yeoman's farmhouse at Townend which is run by the National Trust.

Carry on south through the village and look out for the right-hand turn onto Robin Lane (signed to Ambleside). Keep with the main track and follow the signs; after a while you'll pass by High Skelghyll Farm and into the NT-owned Skelghyll Wood, where a side-track leads up to the viewpoint at Jenkin's Crag - try to time your arrival for late afternoon, when the sinking sun lights up Windermere and the Langdale Pikes.

Return to the main path and follow the track downhill back towards Ambleside. You can either veer of to see the rhododendrons of Stagshaw Gardens (T 015394 46027; £2.50 payable at honesty box, 10.00 am to 6.30 pm, April to June) or continue along the trail to emerge near the Waterhead jetties.

Pubs nearby