Booking

Suitable clothes – as a general rule it can get 1c colder for every 100m you ascend. So if it’s a sunny 15c at sea level, it can be closer to 5c at the summit of Scafell Pike. In addition to this wind speeds increase creating wind chill. And if it’s raining as well it can be a winning combination to get hypothermia if you don’t have warm clothes and waterproofs. It’s a good idea to bring a number of layers so you can remove them if you’re getting warm going up hill, then put them back on when you stop. An extra emergency layer is important to keep with you in your bag – if you sprained your ankle, could you stay warm while you waited for rescue?  A waterproof jacket and trousers are essentials, quick-drying trousers are great (not jeans which hold water and can make you cold), and synthetic layers such as a fleece and wicking t-shirt. Down is light and super warm but is cold if it gets wet so synthetic down can be a better option. Sturdy shoes with good grip are essential in the hills, moors and fells. Trainers don’t have enough grip to stop you slipping so you should aim for something like hiking boots. Boots support your ankles, making them less likely to get injured. Boots also protect your feet from stones and are often waterproof which can minimise wet feet – the fells can be very boggy all year round! Wear a good pair of walking socks. Hat and gloves – these can make a huge difference to your temperature in cold weather. Sun hat and sunscreen – when the sun comes out it can be strong – make sure you bring sun protection.

Food and Water – It’s important to stay hydrated, so bring enough water to last you all day – there might not be anywhere on your route to refill your water bottle. If you’re going to be out on the fells for a long period of time, you should also bring some food, not only to stop you from getting hungry, but also to keep your energy levels up. You might want to have a main meal such as a sandwich, as well as a few smaller things to snack on throughout the day; cereal bars, bananas, and chocolate are all good snacks for keeping your energy up. Walking poles – You might find walking poles useful is you often suffer from aching knees or a bad back after walking. Using walking poles helps to reduce stress on your knees, as a portion of your body weight is taken by your arms, instead of all of your weight being taken by your legs. They can also help you to navigate uneven terrain and are particularly useful downhill. First aid kit – You should make sure to bring a first aid kit with you when walking on the fells. Hopefully you won’t need it, but in the event of you or a member of your party becoming injured, it’s best to have a few items with you that could help, such as plasters, bandages, painkillers, and antiseptic wipes. Emergency bag – an essential piece of lightweight kit, an emergency bag will be a lifesaver if something goes wrong. They are cheap to buy and most outdoor shops sell them. Rucksack – a rucksack or day pack to put it all in.

All walks are led by walk leaders who traverse the walks shortly before they are due to lead the walk. They will therefore have a detailed knowledge of the route and any issues or difficulties involved and will be able to advise about them, They will always carry a map, compass, a first aid kit and a safety blanket. They will carry a contact list of all walkers so that significant people can be contacted in the case of injury or any significant health issues.

• Consider the weather forecast.
• Charge your phone.
• Drink plenty and eat well through the day.
• Wear appropriate clothing.
• Bring an appropriate kit.
• Have mountain and fellwalking knowledge, skills and ability.
• Bring a first aid kit including essential medication – painkillers, blister plasters, spare laces.
• Never walk with your laces undone – this will ruin your reputation as a sartorial and impeccable dresser and could also lead to disaster.
• Ditto walking with your flies undone.