17 February 2022
With four seasons in one day being a fairly frequent occurrence in the Lake District, we wanted to tap into the knowledge and experience of some of the UK’s most experienced outdoor adventurers to help inform our winter safety campaign.
Navigating your way on a winter walk in the Lake District can be tricky, whether you’re after laid back low-level walks and accessible routes or high-level hikes. Conditions underfoot can change quickly, fading light can often catch you out and what to take with you in your rucksack can be a challenge.
To get a better understating of how to do winter safely and be Lake District Kind, we pitched up our tent at Kendal Mountain Festival and spoke to enthusiasts, experts and influencers who told us numerous ways we can all better prepare for our adventures, from the wonderful to the weird. Here’s our top three…
One word we heard more times than any other was ‘layers’. In winter it can be tricky to figure out what to wear on a walk, especially in the Lake District where temperature and weather changes hourly. But from what we heard, taking a big coat to block out the cold isn’t enough. It’s all about a build-up of breathable layers that you can add or take off as needed. And also, look after your extremities…hats, gloves, scarves and snoods are your friends on the fells.
Even if you’re planning on a low-level, little effort ramble, having some fuel with you is a must-have. Those dreaded low blood sugar shakes come out of nowhere and to keep going and enjoy your walk, you need something to combat them. Alongside the more regular tips we heard some fantastic firsts from cold pizza to hard-boiled eggs, which can also double up as hand warmers! But it was one sweet snack that came out on top as the essential winter fuel, the humble Toffee Crisp. While other chocolate bars can freeze this is the snack that stays edible even in the lowest temperatures. Who knew?
In a world where your phone can do just about everything, it can’t replace the more traditional methods of navigation. Time and time again people told us that is was crucial to take a map and compass and more importantly, learn how to use them. While navigation technology is a fantastic addition to mobiles, it should never be relied upon solely. Phones can be lost or damaged, batteries can die and signal, can be impossible to get, especially in more rural spots. An Ordnance Survey map can last a lifetime and can be read in any conditions. Even in the strongest of winds. And of course a torch will help with that in fading light and a compass can help guide you on your way, too.
To watch all of our films featuring hiking hacks from people who are passionate about the Lake District including mountaineer Alan Hinkes OBE, campstove cook Fell Foodie and adventurer and founder of Wanderlust Women, Amira, head to our Lake District kind page
