This prominent hill, much used by local people for walking, is one of Kendal's most popular recreational areas and has fantastic views to Morecambe Bay and right into the Lake District.

Opportunities to enjoy these views have been improved by Friends of the Lake District. The western side of the hill is a common and already well used by the public, while the eastern side was previously in private ownership with limited public access, until local conservation charity Friends of the Lake District bought land in 2007.

Since then, the charity has put in gates, made of local oak, to open up access to new areas to walk and relax, as well as reducing sheep grazing to allow grasses and other wild flowers to flourish.

Judith Moore from Friends of the Lake District said: "The Helm is a beautiful place with stunning views and we hope that our leaflet will encourage people to explore it. The Helm is close to Oxenholme train station and bus services, so you don't need a car to enjoy this great hill. We were really pleased to be able to work with the County Council and Natural England on the leaflet."

The leaflet gives information on where you can walk, suggested routes, some history of the hill and a map to show how to get there, as well as public transport information.

Download the Helm Walks leaflet here or for a printed version contact us on 01539 720788.

Simon Boyd from Cumbria County Council's Countryside Access team said: ‘The Helm provides excellent recreational opportunities on the doorstep of Kendal. People can conveniently use public transport, leave the car at home and get out for some exercise to enjoy the stunning panoramas on offer. We hope this will be the first in a series of leaflets to promote walks using public transport.'

Friends of the Lake District runs regular conservation days to help look after the Helm. Activities include bracken bashing, thistle digging, controlling the gorse and repairing dry stone walls. To take part contact them on 01539 720788 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Volunteering dates and information can be found here.

Cumbria County Council as the statutory highway authority is required to assert, protect, map, record, manage and maintain one of the largest networks of public rights of way (some 7,500km) across Cumbria, in partnership with other agents. The Countryside Access team undertakes these duties and also works to improve access and promote use and enjoyment. Click here for more details.

Open Access land was established under the CROW Act and includes mountain, moorland, healthland, downland and registered common. More information is available here. Cumbria is home to 2,137 km², the largest area of open access land in England.