Winter at Wasdale
19 people attending
9 places left
Set on the banks of Wastwater, this stunning, half-timbered, National Trust owned country house offers comfortable, historic accommodation slap-bang in the heart of the most iconic Lake District mountains. We have oodles of walking and mountaineering options directly from the doorstep.
Spectacular winter walking deep in the spiritual heart of the Lakes. Looking around from Wasdale Head is like a roll call of some of England's most iconic summits. Great Gable, Kirk Fell, Yewbarrow and Scafell Pike can all be seen on a clear day. In this wonderful and beguiling winter setting, weather permitting, we will feast on this amazing smorgasbord of summits with some proper mountain walks to remember.
Arrival will be on the Friday night, when we will have our traditional OutdoorLads buffet. Then, after breakfast on Saturday morning, there will be one or more walking options (depending on leader availability), either from the hostel door or just a short drive away. Dinner on the Saturday evening is included in the event price and volunteers will be sought to help with the preparation, table setting etc.
Bedrooms and Beds
Please let us know (either by leaving a message on the event page or by sending a message to one of the two event leaders) if you are a couple booking, or friends who are happy to share a double bed, as two of the beds are doubles and we can increase event numbers by 2 if we share them :)
Dogs
This event is not suitable for dogs.
What to bring
Bedding is provided, but you will need your own towel, and of course clothing, wash kit etc for the weekend.
For walking:
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 20-30 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
Boots: waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good ankle support
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
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain.
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
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 unless otherwise stated
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
Dinner on Friday evening will be a buffet and everyone attending is asked to bring a contribution please. Sweet or savoury, home-made or shop-bought. We want to avoid waste where possible, so don't go overboard.
As usual, the event cost includes breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, dinner on Saturday evening and tea/coffee throughout the weekend.
You will need to bring items for your packed lunches, plus any other drinks you'd like.