Derwentwater, Walla Crag and Castlerigg.

The first installment of my Lake District weekender will be astraight forward walk for those who might like a taster of what to expect up in the Lakes. The route I have designed is, compared to the majority of fell walking treks available, very easy and suitable for anybody with a moderate level of hill fitness.

I hope this 16km (or 10 mile) route will serve as an introduction to the Lake District for those who may want to get a feel of the area. It is not a flat walk and some hill fitness is required, but with less than 500m of ascent, the walk will be manageable for most people. The walk is expected to take around six hours at a leisurely pace.

The walk will begin at the Keswick Launch car park on Derwentwater. We will head south past the beautiful view point of Friar's Crag, around some of the scenic bays of Derwentwater and through tranquil woodland towards Borrowdale. We will reach the famous Ashness Bridge, and then begin a steep climb up onto the fellside to "bag" the summit of Walla Crag. Here, there are amazing views available across the north western and northern fells, Derwentwater and down into the dramatic valley of Borrowdale. 

Once down off the fellside, we will call at "The Gallery" cafe at Castlerigg Hall, which will provide the opportunity to have a little rest. There are toilet facilities here and the cafe has a nice range of hot and cold drinks and other tasty snacks. There's a beautiful view to enjoy.

We will then head northwards along a series of easy paths to the ancient site of Castlerigg stone circle where we can discuss the ceremonial practices of our ancestors. The return will mean retracing our steps and then descending back to Keswick Launch via Springs Wood. 

As this is quite a simple outing and to encourage people in my catchment of "regulars" to book on, I am offering this walk at £24.00 per person. 

Please bear in mind that I have calculated the route duration based on average speeds of clients. The walk may actually be done in a quicker time, but also may take longer than expected based on individual fitness levels within the group. As mentioned, a level of hill fitness is required to manage the climb up from Ashness Bridge to Walla Crag.

Upon booking a space, please don't overlook Moors to Mountains Footwear, Clothing and Equipment Requirements.

It is imperative to wear clothing that is suitable for both the activity and the time of year. Weather conditions can change very quicky while out and about in the hills. All participants must wear sturdy footwear, approved for use for the booked activity. Advice can be found from any reputable outdoor clothing retailer, and I am personally happy to give guidance prior to the activity. If you have not used an item of footwear, clothing or equipment for a similar activity previously, you must seek advice from me on the durability and suitability before the activity takes place.

Unless advised otherwise, a list of items that participant must have on their person (other than approved footwear) should include:

• Rucksack suitable for the activity. Minimum 20 litres, unless otherwise stated.
• Waterproof coat is essential, and trousers if possible.
• Mid layer, such as a fleece or gillet (synthetic or hydrophobic down).
• Suitable base layers and walking socks. Synthetic materials and Merino wool work best by wicking away sweat.
• Hat and gloves, stowed away in your pack if it is not perceivably cold at the start of the walk.
• IN SUMMER – cap or other sun hat, sunglasses and sun cream!
• Lunch and adequate food provisions..
• At least one litre of water.
• Personal medication, accessible and labelled with dosage information where necessary
• Headtorch, fully charged or with spare batteries.
• Mobile telephone fully charged.