We have a habit of only blogging about the more exciting activities we do like Gorge Scrambling and Rock Climbing. So here I'll attempt to redress the balance and showcase some of the wonderful guided walks we've been fortunate enough to host this summer. This is just a snapshot of what we can offer as we can tailor a day to suit you.
Guided walks Lake District
Silver How:
Photo 1 is taken from the summit of Silver How. Whilst it is feasible to start from Ambleside, there are many other options and on this occasion we started off from Elterwater. After summiting Silver How we descended into Grasmere and the tempting cafes almost drew us in for lunch. We made our return via the pretty Deer Bolt woods and on to Elterwater Common. Brews in The Britannia nicely rounded off the day.
If looking for wonderful views, varied terrain, with modest amounts of elevation gain this is a good place to start.
Loughrigg:
Photo 2 shows Lily Tarn, Loughrigg. This is our most local fell and we spend a lot of our free time here. There are a myriad of footpaths, so many it can be quite confusing. Thankfully we know most of them, so you'll be in good hands if on one of our guided walks.On this occasion we were helping Jane from Formby Yoga who was on retreat in Ambleside. As well as offering yoga classes, food and accommodation, Jane was keen to add a guided walk into the weekend, that's where we came in. We formulated a route starting from their base, so no cars needed, and this took us onto Loughrigg from Clappersgate. Todd Crag and Loughrigg tarn being the highlights as they offer splendid views including a commanding vista over Windermere.
Catbells:
Photo 3 shows Derwent Water from Catbells. On this day we were with two lovely ladies visiting Keswick from the South of England. Wanting some time in the hills but not any of the stress that can come with navigating, or even just deciding on routes. We stepped in a came up with a plan. Walking from the centre of Keswick we utilised the Derwent Water launch to transport us over the the base of Catbells. This is without doubt the finest way to start this walk. Rather than following the crowds directly up Catbells, we followed the lesser travelled path on the Western flanks, this assured a quiet start to our day. Once up on the top we joined the many other walkers having selfies, lunch, just sitting, meditating and so much more no doubt. The prominent ridge took us home to Keswick. This is a particularly good choice for introducing youngsters to the mountain environment.
Scafell Pike:
Photo 4 is taken from the Hollow Stones boulder field and shows off the dramatic cliffs of Scafell. Is there a more dramatic view in all of England? We spend a lot of days guiding walkers to the summit of Scafell Pike and have become extremely knowledgeable about the route and the mountain. Often we will be walking from Wasdale Head and this makes most sense for many. Hollow Stones is about half way and is often when it starts to feel like a proper mountain. It is rough and very rocky underfoot whilst all around are huge cliffs. On this occasion we had a small group with us, fine weather and no crowds as it was midweek. On clear days it is easy to navigate on Scafell Pike, but if clouds roll in (and they often do) it becomes very challenging to stay on the correct path and many people become disorientated. It's well worth hiring a guide for this one.
Buttermere:
Photos 5 & 6 are taken during walks around Buttermere. The last two summers we have been providing local support to a large travel company and as part of this we would take their guests on a gentle stroll along the shores of Buttermere. This is a nice flat circuit but it offers some of the finest views the district has, including a favourite of Alfred Wainwright - Haystacks. For this route it really isn't necessary to think about having a guide as the route is so straightforward. But if you'e keen to learn more about the history and geography of the area or if you'e planning to bring a group of people and want help managing this, we can help.
Benefits of having a guide include:
- A guide takes care of the route planning
- Will navigate safely through the varied terrain
- Can easily divert to other routes/mountains if needed
- Will always carry safety equipment including a First Aid Kit and Storm Shelter
- Can advise on the best route for you / your group
- Will show points of interest and share knowledge throughout the day
- Can advise on progress, what's coming next, and how much further to go
Whatever walking objective you have in mind, it's very likely we'll be able to help. For a few more route ideas have a look at our Guided Walking page here
And if you'e planning a visit to the Lake District and don't require a guide but would like to discuss routes / mountains with a local Mountain Leader, please feel free to get in touch, we'll be happy to help.
Thanks for reading
Mark & Kate
