From challenging crags and fells to gentle country lanes and lakeside strolls, the Lake District is a walkers paradise. Discovering the Lake District by foot is often the ideal way to experience the stunning surroundings at their best, and if you are planning a trip to the Lake District, it is a great idea to plan out some walks in advance. There are plenty of books with detailed route descriptions, and investing in a good map is a must. Tourist centres will also provide you with plenty of leaflets and information on local routes. From guided tours to going it alone, strap on your boots and get ready to discover the very best of the Lake District walks.
Before you begin… some essential do’s and don’ts:
DO check with local information centres to ensure your route path is open. Flood damage from November 2009 has meant several routes and paths remain affected.
DO allow plenty of time for your walk. A good guide is to allow around one hour for every 4km or 2.5 miles. With every 500m (1,500ft) of ascent, it is best to add an extra hour. Make sure you also factor in extra time for stops and food.
DON’T choose routes which cannot be changed if the weather worsens – remember it is better to be flexible rather than rigidly ambitious.
DO check the weather before, using the Weatherline website, or call 0844 846 2444.
DON’T forget that the weather on the fells can be more extreme than the valley areas – make sure you take suitable extra clothing to keep warm.
DO take a good map and compass – and use them! Refresher courses are available in most areas for how to use a map and compass – check with local information centres for more details.
DON’T forget important emergency numbers in case you need help – and make sure you know basic first aid.
The Walker’s Checklist
No matter where you are heading, make sure you have the following essentials so you can get the best out of your walk:
Clothing
- Comfortable clothing
- A decent waterproof and windproof jacket
- Sturdy boots with a good grip – avoid trainers, as they will not provide adequate support or grip and can lead to nasty tumbles.
- Hat and gloves
- Spare warm clothing – particularly when you rest as you may need more layers. A selection of thinner layers are a good idea, allowing you to adapt to the changing weather conditions with ease.
Equipment
- Comfortable daysack
- Food and water – hot drinks are often advisable in colder weather
- Some extra energy-giving food and emergency rations
- Large polybag or survival bag
- Whistle and torch
- First aid kit
- Map and compass
Walking in Winter
Winter in the Lake District dramatically transforms the landscape, often blanketing large areas in snow. To enjoy the picturesque landscape in winter conditions, it is advisable to remember the following:
- Pack extra kit, including Winter weight boots, a torch and extra warm clothing alongside your usual supplies
- Check the weather and the number of daylight hours – and structure your walk accordingly.
- Make sure you are familiar with the length of the walk
- If walking in high altitude, make sure you can use your ice pick and crampons.
- Beware of gullies after fresh snowfall
In case of Emergency
If you’ve taken a wrong turning and are experiencing delays rather than an emergency on your walk, make sure you inform the police as quickly as possible. With the Mountain Rescue service run solely by volunteers, it is important to avoid unnecessary callouts.
In case of an emergency:
Give any casualty first aid. Check their breathing is unobstructed, attend and dress wounds to avoid bleeding and keep them warm and sheltered. Make sure you protect yourself as well.
Call 999 and ask for Police – double check you are being put through to Cumbria Police, rather than any other emergency service.
Ask the police operator for Mountain Rescue, providing full details of the incident and a grid reference if possible.
Give them a contact phone number.
The Police or Rescue Team will be able to send out an ambulance if it is required – you will not need to contact an ambulance separately if you have given full details of the incident.
Make sure you stay in a place where you can be contacted, and have signal on your mobile.
A Rescue Controller will call you back, asking for further details. They will then arrange a team, who will be with you as quickly as possible.
