A team of more than 70 dedicated volunteers are all set to inspire over 2,000 people this year with their passion for the Lake District World Heritage site through a varied selection of walks. This Sunday (31 March) sees the start of the 2019 volunteer-led guided walks season in the Lake District.
Volunteer–led guided walks have been taking place in the Lake District since the 1960s and are always very popular. There really is something to suit everyone - from leisurely lakeshore strolls to classic high fell hikes.
Belinda Turnbull, the Lake District National Park’s Guided Walks Coordinator says: “Our amazing volunteer guided walk leaders offer a great variety of walks each year. We cater for everyone from families and those who want a gentle walk to those who want to bag a few Wainwrights in the one day.”
The walk programme runs from Easter until October half term and volunteers will be busy helping people to safely explore the stunning landscape. In addition to the walks, volunteers also run map and compass courses so people can learn to safely navigate their own way on the fells.
The walk season kicks off on Sunday 31 March with a delightful walk over Tom Heights to Colwith Force and Holme Fell with views over Coniston Water. This moderate grade walk will take around 5 hours and a reasonable level of fitness is required.
The next walk after that will take place on April 2 where participants will have the chance to walk in Wainwright's footsteps on this circular walk up, over and around High Rigg in St John's-in-the-Vale, with panoramic views.
All of the walks are free or low cost to cater for everyone. As always, donations are welcome. Each donation goes straight back into ensuring that more people can enjoy exploring the National Park now and in years to come.
The full list of guided walks can be found here and booked online.
Photo shows people enjoying a National Park volunteer-led guided walk in beautiful Ullswater.
