What NOT to do on your next Lake District holiday

Whilst there’s lots of advice on things to do while visiting the Lakes, there’s less information out there on what NOT to do. To help you avoid some of the common misadventures that can happen to visitors to the Lakes, we’ve put together a quick list of advice on preventing some common pitfalls. So you can have the best holiday possible!

Getting lost

It’s easy to do and we’ve probably all done it at some point. But getting lost while out walking in the Lake District fells can put a serious dampener on your holiday, as well as potentially putting yourself and those with you in danger.

While old school advice is to always to carry a map and compass and know how to use them, we understand that many people choosing to walk in the Lakes will rely on their phone for navigation. With this in mind:

• Research your walk beforehand. Know exactly where you are going and how long you expect it to take. Plan a route and stick to it. Paths exist for a reason as they usually offer a safe, reliable route. What looks like a shortcut may in fact lead you into danger.

• Take screenshots of routes/maps beforehand as you may well not have phone signal when out walking.

• Make sure your phone is fully charged with location services enabled and consider investing in portable charger. Using GPS for navigation can drain your phone battery far quicker than you may expect. Carry a waterproof bag to put your phone in in case of rain.

• Ensure you are confident that you have the knowledge and skills for the day ahead

• Consider the time of year and prepare accordingly. Pack a torch, whistle, plenty of water, food and warm/waterproof clothing. Wear appropriate footwear such as sturdy walking boots.

• Be prepared – to change your plans according to the weather. Check the weather forecast and the mountain forecast such as MWIS (Mountain Weather Information Service). Keep an open mind on what you do and when – save your longest/highest walks for the days with the most favourable forecast.  

Staying in the wrong location

Choosing your location carefully, depending on what you want from your holiday, can save you both time in travelling and in money for transport costs. It may be tempting to try and save money on accommodation by staying outside the National Park boundry however this can prove to a be a false economy once your transport, fuel or parking costs have been added in to the equation.  Coniston village for example has pubs, access to the lake and low and high levels walks on the doorstep so if you’re looking for an outdoor focused holiday with adventure but also pubs and shops on your doorstep Coniston is the perfect choice. Choosing the right location means your car can have a holiday too!

Having parking problems

Research available parking within the area to which you are heading. Websites such as lakedistrict.gov.uk provide information on parking and payment methods. Once you have arrived in the area to intend to park, only park in designated car parks or laybys.

Take care not to block or obstruct roads, lanes or gates and when parking and do not park your vehicle in passing places on single track roads. Parking spaces can fill up early, so if your day’s plans rely on parking at a specific location, be sure to get there early so you can enjoy a fabulous day in the Lakes as planned. 

Don’t forget to follow the countryside code; there are some simple rules which exist to keep the countryside safe for everyone:

• take all your litter home
• leave gates and property as you find them
• keep dogs under control at all times and always on a lead around livestock (but remember that if you are chased by livestock its usually safer to release your dog, – your dog can get away easier and quicker than you can ,and it’s usually the dog the farm animals feel threatened by causing them to act aggressively). Pick up dog mess and dispose of it in a bin. Be wary of echoes when out on the fells – dogs have been known to become lost by responding to an echoed call and running in the opposite direction to your actual location.

Don’t be a Firestarter.

Advice on disposable BBQs; during prolonged spells of dry weather it’s recommended that lighting any fires or disposable BBQs is avoided entirely. During other times, always ensure your BBQ is entirely out, cooled and always dispose of it responsibly. Be considerate of others who will using the space after you. Leave no trace of your visit.

Forgetting right is right.

Walking on the wrong side of the road is a very common mistake. Sometimes it’s necessary to have to walk along a road for a short distance. When doing so take care to walk on the right, FACING traffic – that way you can see the oncoming traffic and take avoiding action if necessary. It’s almost instinctive for us Brits to be on the left-hand side on the road, but walking with the oncoming traffic behind you means you don’t see what’s coming and they might not see you until it’s too late.

The Lakes District is truly an incredible place that is open for everyone to enjoy and benefit from. By taking care to plan and extend courtesy to other National Park users everyone can enjoy a fabulous visit to the Lakes – that is memorable for all the right reasons.