Tips for Walking in the English Lake District

One of the most rewarding ways of enjoying the English Lake District is to explore one of the many footpaths. The fresh air, scenery and company of fellow walkers is both healthy and therapeutic. There is also the excitement from the sense of adventure of discovering what lies around the next corner, or navigating a previously unexplored route, even for experienced walkers.

The English Lake District is a land of soaring mountains, glacial valleys, shimmering lakes, attractive market towns and hundreds of miles of footpaths. The Lake District National Park offers the hustle and bustle of several well visited towns such as Ambleside, Bowness, Grasmere and Keswick, but also vast areas of beautiful countryside where even on the busiest of days it is possible to find peace and isolation. Combine this with the 18 lakes (including Lake Windermere, England's largest lake), over 2000 tarns & pools and 11 mountains standing over 2900 feet tall (including Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain) and you start to realise why this enchanted corner of England attracts millions of visitors each year.

With such a variety of footpaths in the English Lake District offering a choice of walks for visitors of all abilities it is sometimes difficult to assess which are the walks most suited to you, here are some tips aimed at helping you make that choice and how to make the most of your walk.

1. Assess your health and fitness

Carrying a backpack on a long walk over wild terrain can be very tiring, even for the fittest walker. Make sure that the planned distance and pace of your walk is well within your capabilities, and those of other members of your group, especially any children. Remember to take into account the overall height gains of the walk and whether it involves any steep climbs. If in doubt start on a shorter walk and work upwards.



2. Route information

A good map is indispensible. It gives you a bird’s eye view of the ground so you can plan your route and determine your position whilst walking. Before setting out, ensure your map is the right scale, up to date and that you are familiar with the key. The Lake District is covered by a multitude of maps; I would recommend a scale of 1:25000, although some walkers use 1:50000.



3. Checking the weather forecast

Always find out the latest weather forecast before setting out on your walk. Our website www.enjoythelakes.org has links to the metoffice for up to date forecasts for the Lake District.



4. What to wear

Always wear appropriate footwear, walking shoes or boots should be worn if venturing off the level. Follow a layering system, the choice of fabrics should insulate from the cold whilst allowing heat and moisture to move away from the body. Remember that even in the height of summer it can be near freezing point on the top of some of the Lakes mountain summits. The Lake District’s weather can be very changeable it is always advisable to take a good waterproof.



5. Using marked paths

Getting lost on paths is surprisingly easy. Before setting out, be clear on the route to be taken. Always use your compass to set the bearing of where you intend to walk and check it regularly. Marked paths often split into smaller ones that can meander, leading you somewhere completely different to where you thought you were going. If in doubt check your map.



In order to minimise erosion in this beautiful place please keep to the paths. Do not force your way through fences or hedges and remember to close all gates behind you.



6. Setting the pace

The walking pace should be that of the slowest member of the group, remember to take into account the requirements of children. Walk together at a steady pace, keeping the group together. If necessary propose extra rest stops. Try and keep any children amused by pointing out things of interest, having Lakeland quizzes etc.



7. Rest stops

Plan to take a 10 minute rest stop after every 50 minutes of walking. These are both good for morale and for checking your position. Try and plan your stops at places which have good views. Eating little and often maintains your energy. Remember to drink plenty of fluids.



8. Après walk

Once your walk has been completed, make the most of your visit to the Lake District by spending time looking around one its towns or villages where there is generally something to do for everyone. Ideas for children can be found on our website www.enjoythelakes.org/childrens_page.html