Preparing for winter walks in the lake district

The Lake District offers what is arguably some of the best walking in England. And whilst many prefer to confine their walking to spring and summer when the weather is more likely to be kind, there is something particularly spectacular about winter walking in the Lake District 

Of course if you do plan to do some winter walking then it is absolutely essential that you prepare properly for all eventualities. If you are planning to do a series of walks, then you will want to book a room in one of the great Lake District hotels nearby.

What to wear

The weather is very changeable, and a crisp day can suddenly become a wet one so you need to make sure that your wardrobe can cope with this. 

·       Layers are the best way of keeping warm so make sure that you have breathable and insulating layers. This will make it easier to add or remove a layer as the need occurs. 

·       Waterproofs, both a jacket and over-trousers are the best way to cope with a sudden downturn in the weather

·       Walking trousers, not only are these incredibly comfortable by they are designed to dry quickly which will help you should the weather change

·       Hat and gloves, even if you don’t need to wear them when you set out you may be glad of them later

·       Walking boots, these offer better ankle protection when the ground is wet underfoot. Look for something with a good tread to help you keep your footing

·       Walking socks, these may seem like an unnecessary expense, but they will keep your feet warm and cosy and are less likely to cause you blisters

What to pack 

Packing for your walk is just as important as wearing the right clothes. Make sure that you have a good rucksack that is comfortable to wear. Walking poles and gaiters whilst not essential are also handy to have with you and will make your walk more enjoyable particularly in damp weather. You should consider packing the following:

·       Food and water, and maybe a hot flask

·       Emergency high energy food

·       Fully charged mobile phone

·       Map and a compass – learn how to use them in case GPS lets you down

·       Whistle and a torch – if you get lost the international distress signal of 6 short flashes or a torch or whistle blasts should be repeated at one minute intervals

·       Basic first aid kit 

Where to walk

Before you head off on your walk it is always a good idea to mention to someone where you are going in case of issues. You should also check the weather forecast.

Here are some of our recommendations for the best walks around Keswick:

·       Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Path – a linear walk of around 5 km, this is an ideal family walk as it is nice and flat. You can either catch a bus back or turn around and walk back the same way. 

·       Castlerigg Stone Circle from Keswick – at around 6.5km, this walk has a little climb and takes you through fields to the stone circle. For a longer walk add on a detour to Tewet Tarn and Low Rigg. 

·       Latrigg from Keswick – a Wainwright walk of around 7 km, the ascent is steady but manageable and the views fantastic. The walk can easily be turned into a circular one by adding in Brundholme Woods via the railway path. 

·       Catbells from Keswick – one of the most iconic walks in Keswick. This is a longer walk and more suited to clearer days, but the climb is worth it. 

·       Derwentwater circular – One of the few lakes you can really walk around, this is 14km offering a variety of scenery and several places you can stop for some refreshments!