Loughrigg Fell | A Lake District Photography Guide
Loughrigg Fell is a must-visit Lake District Photography Location
If someone new to the Lake District asked me which fell to start with, I’d always say Loughrigg Fell. It’s not too difficult a walk, and the rewards are incredible, especially at sunrise. The surrounding views are unmatched on a misty morning, and some of my favourite images have been taken here, zooming down into the fog with a long lens. From the summit, you can see Windermere, Grasmere, Rydal Water, and Loughrigg Tarn, as well as an amazing view back to the Coniston Fells. For me, this is the best sunrise location in the Lake District.
Of course, it is a fell walk, so a reasonable level of fitness is needed, but it’s not overly strenuous. I’d recommend parking at White Moss Common and walking up along Loughrigg Terrace. Even if you only make it to the terrace, the views over Grasmere are fantastic. The summit is just a short hike further, and once you’re there, there are plenty of paths to explore around the top of the fell. You’ll find crags, dry stone walls, and scattered trees that make for great foreground interest in your photos. Don’t forget a telephoto lens—this is one of the best spots for zooming in on smaller scenes below.
There are so many beautiful details on a morning like this | Nikon Z7 | Nikon 24-200mm
Zooming in towards some minor roads and using them as leading lines | Nikon Z7 | Nikon 24-200mm
If possible, plan your trip for a morning with a fog forecast and hike up before dawn to catch the sunrise. The light breaking through the mist adds so much atmosphere to your shots. Be sure to bring a head torch if you’re heading up early, and take care on the paths. Loughrigg Fell is only about a 5-minute drive from both Grasmere and Ambleside, making it easy to reach. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, it’s a location that never disappoints. A true ‘must-visit’ Lake District photography location.
A landscape photographer’s dream morning in the central Lake District Nikon Z7 | Nikon 24-200mm