Helvellyn Wild Camping: one night in the fells

1 day

Helvellyn Wild Camping: one night in the fells

Overview

A guided two-day wild camping trip into the heart of the Lake District, with a high camp at Grisedale Tarn and a full Helvellyn circuit on day two. One night out, two days on the hill, and the chance to wake up in one of the most dramatic settings in England before tackling one of its most iconic mountains.

This is a trip for hillwalkers with reasonable fitness who want their first proper taste of wild camping — or who've done it before and want a guided weekend in a serious bit of country. The first afternoon is gentle: a steady walk in to camp with time to learn the practicalities along the way. Day two earns the trip — the classic Helvellyn loop, ridges, summit, and the view back down to where you slept.

Who it's for

The trip suits hillwalkers comfortable on full days out and ready to take on a Lakeland summit with overnight kit. You don't need wild camping experience — your guide will walk you through everything from pitching to leave-no-trace. You do need reasonable fitness and a head that's happy on steep, sometimes exposed ground. Helvellyn's classic ridges have some airy moments.

What you can expect

  • A gentle walk in on day one with time to settle into camp before sunset
  • A high wild camp at Grisedale Tarn — one of the great pitches in the Lakes
  • Stargazing under skies that earn the climb up
  • The full Helvellyn circuit on day two, including the summit and surrounding ridges
  • Skills picked up along the way: campcraft, route reading, leave-no-trace, basic navigation
  • A small group led by guides who know the Lake District properly

About

Your Guide

Amy Wright

Amy Wright

Amy’s love for the mountains grew from humble beginnings. Having grown up on the flat south coast, she didn’t set foot among real peaks until training to teach in North Wales in 2015. It was an “in at the deep‑end” introduction and she has been hooked ever since. Now, with a decade of experience, an experienced Mountain Leader and teacher, Amy is passionate about creating high quality outdoor experiences, particularly for those who might otherwise have limited opportunities to explore the hills.

Whether she is guiding someone on their very first mountain day or helping seasoned hikers push their limits, Amy delivers experiences that are both empowering and enjoyable. Since moving to the Lake District, she has completed all 214 Wainwrights and can usually be found on the fells, whether working, exploring new routes or simply enjoying a well earned summit view.

With her mix of professional expertise, infectious enthusiasm and a genuine commitment to making the outdoors accessible, Amy ensures every day in the mountains is safe, memorable and rewarding.

Itinerary

Location

Things to keep in mind