Walking in the North Lakes.
Walk on England's highest
mountains, valleys and passes.
The Lake District has been voted the top walking destination
in the UK for 2006 by members of the Ramblers Association.
The Northern Lake District has some of Britain’s
best, most scenic and most accessible, walking areas. Whether
a you like a short stroll or a strenuous high level mountain
walk, there is something here for everyone.
Winter walking on Green Gable
Affecting both high and low level routes, the weather in the
Lake District can change very quickly and you should always
dress appropriately: a breathable and windproof top layer may
be all you need but, if rain does seem likely, then a breathable
waterproof outer layer will also be needed if you are going
to be walking for any length of time. A base layer to ‘wick’ perspiration
away from you skin and a mid-layer fleece (in cool conditions)
will also help to keep you feeling comfortable. Comfortable
and supportive footwear with good grip, especially in wet conditions,
is also very important. Trainers are not suitable footware. Any
of the specialist outdoor clothing shops in Keswick will be
pleased to advise.
The National Park Authority’s Weatherline Service on
0870 055 0575 can provide a local
forecast before you start your walk. You can view the Lake
District fell forecast here and in severe weather conditions,
a fell forecast is published by the BBC.
Always remember to take enough food and drink for your walk –
and a proper map of the area.
If you’re heading onto the fells and mountains, then a
compass and basic navigational skills will help prevent your
getting lost. Do not rely on a mobile phone "for emergencies",
as you may well be walking in areas where there is no signal!
If you or your children decide to stop for a swim, be careful
- Lake District waters are often cold and deep.
Should an emergency arise the emergency services (including Moutain
Rescue) can be summoned by calling 999. You will need to give
as much detail about your location and situation as possible.
Further advice is on this Mountain
Rescue website.
Some Links to walking information:
The Keswick Tourism Association has published some route guides
for Keswick and the North Lakes,
download
them from here.
Some further routes around Keswick and the North
Lakes are on this CTB
web site
Walk routes in West Cumbria are here
John Dawson's lake
district walks
Walking Britain lists some excellent
routes
Maps
of the Keswick area
Walking
guide books for Keswick
15 Day weather
forecast for Keswick.
Lake District & fells forecast
If you favour mountain biking then the KTA has published some
local routes.
Need Lake District accommodation? See lake-district-keswick.co.uk
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