Top Tips for Fell Walking in the Lake District

If you’ve never been to the Lakes before, you might be wondering how to make the most of fell walking while you’re here. Many people return time and again to The Coppermines Lake District Holiday Cottages
to get out into the fresh air and enjoy hiking and exploring Lakeland.

Here are some insider tips on how to enjoy fell walking whilst staying safe and comfortable.

Know Your Own Limits

First of all, it’s good to be realistic about your own limits. So many of us have challenges to work around – whether that’s a weak knee or a dodgy ankle, or just generally getting tired more easily than others do. Be honest about the length of time you can walk for, and make sure that your chosen route accommodates your needs – if you need plenty of spots to stop and rest, for example, or if you can’t manage steep inclines. There are many beautiful walks in the Lake District so if you have not been walking before, start small and work up to the bigger fells.

Plan Your Routes in Advance

There are so many guides on the internet about finding the best walking routes – dive in deep and get researching! Once you’ve found a walk you want to try, check the distance and features of the walk, so you know which way you’re going.
Take a map with you, too – although we all have in-built maps on our phones, it’s worth taking a paper one as you might find your signal dips in and out, or your battery could run out.

Be Prepared

What should you take with you on your fell walk? Ideally, you should have a comfortable backpack or bag with a few essentials:

• A small first aid kit, with plasters
• Water
• Food to keep your energy levels up
• A map (as we mentioned earlier)
• A compass
• A torch and spare batteries
• Your phone

If you’re a keen photographer, it’s also worth bringing a good camera so you can capture the breath-taking scenery!

Check the Weather

Check the weather forecast before you go. Some walks are more slippery and difficult to navigate than others, so if it is pouring with rain, you might have to think about trying an easier route. Avoid high ground in very windy conditions and be prepared to turn back if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

Dress Appropriately

It can get very, very cold in the Lakes, especially in the autumn and winter months. Wearing lots of layers is ideal, as you can take a layer off if you become too warm whilst walking. Make sure you take a good waterproof coat that’s going to keep you warm if the temperature drops.

Decent waterproofs are an absolute must-have, as you’re probably going to get muddy and wet. Long trousers are better even in the summer months, as they’ll protect your legs from bumps and scratches.
Shoes are really important. You need proper walking boots that will give you good ankle support. It’s worth wearing them before you go, so you can break them in a little and check if they’re still comfortable after a lot of walking.