Kentmere Horseshoe
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The Kentmere Horseshoe, sometimes called the Kentmere Round, is one of the longest and most remote walks in the Lake District, offering fine views of the far eastern fells. Traversing all the fells bounding the upper Kentmere valley and its reservoir, it starts beside the village hall in the hamlet of Kentmere some 4 miles north of Staverley, near Kendal.
Note 1: The early part of the route involves boggy ground. Headtorches are essential as the walk will be completed in the dark. It’s an exposed, windy route, so good winter walking clothing is essential - it can be freezing cold mid summer on this route. A full kit check will take place.
Note 2: if true winter conditions prevail, eg risk of whiteout or crampon use then this walk will be cancelled.
Dogs welcome, but I ask they’re kept on leads at all times - I’ve had too many bad incidences after promises they’ll be fine; and growing up on a sheep farm seen too much of the carnage. Thanks!
Bring £1 cash each for parking at Kentmere.
There are several pubs in Staveley to extend the evening.
At 20.7km (12.8 miles) and 1085m of ascent, this walk takes you to the top of the following hills: Yoke, Thornthwaite Crag, Shipman Knotts, Mardale Ill Bell, Kentmere Pike, Ill Bell, Harter Fell (Mardale), Goat Scar, and Froswick; and includes 8 Wainwrights, 9 Birketts, 6 Hewitts, 6 Nuttalls, and 2 HuMPs. How about that?
See route here.
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Photo credit Bryan Cosgrove, Johnny Williams, used with permission.
What to bring
A kit check will take place before setting off. Only those with appropriate winter clothing and waterproofs will be permitted on the walk.
The early part of the route especially involves boggy ground.
Head torch - essential, as the walk will be completed in the dark.
Waterproof jacket and over trousers: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (synthetic vest or t-shirt, a mid layer (a micro fleece or synthetic shirt) an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece). A warm belay jacket or gilet for breaks and stops
Hiking Trousers: no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Boots: waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good ankle support
Water: bring at least two litres in a water bottle, or better still, a hydration bladder
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day Rucksack: typically 20-35 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Waterproof bags: keep spare clothing, electronics and anything else dry even when your rucksack leaks by using Ziploc type food bags or, better still, outdoor activity waterproof bags
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters, and carry a spare, dry pair
Walking Poles: always optional, love them or hate them, but give them a try and decide for yourself
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain.
Hat: stay warm in winter
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch
Emergency equipment: the walk leader will bring any emergency equipment required for the group, but you are welcome to bring any that you have, such as additional high energy food, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire (either storm proof matches or a firelighter
Map and compass: the walk leader will have these, but if you like map reading or want to develop your skills, bring yours along
Mobile Phone: keep it in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies, and a spare battery/charger is a good idea
Food & drink
This is a long walk so bring plenty of food and snacks for the whole day, and don't rely on the outlets at Staveley.
It is especially important that you bring plenty of water, and hydrate well before we start.
There are several pubs in Staveley to extend the evening.