Broadcaster and journalist Cameron McNeish will lead a walk up Skiddaw

Visitors to a mountain festival will be able to take to the hills with one of the best known outdoor writers of the day.

Broadcaster and journalist Cameron McNeish will lead a walk up Skiddaw as part of the Keswick Festival in May.

Sir Chris Bonington, Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton and broadcaster Monty Halls have also been booked to speak at the event.

Cameron McNeish will lead his walk from Latrigg via Jenkin Hill and Little Man to the summit, returning via Sale How, Skiddaw House and the Glenderaterra Beck valley.

Mr McNeish said: “I’m delighted to be taking part in the Keswick Mountain Festival, leading a walk which is going to offer stunning views of some of the Lake District’s most iconic mountains.

“For those that accompany me I also hope that it will be a fun, stimulating and informative experience, which will be accessible to people who are new to hill walking and want to learn more.”

The walk will take place on Saturday, 19 May.

Other walks are also on offer during the festival, which runs from 16 May to 20 May. Scafell Pike, Blencathra, Helvellyn, Great Gable and Haystacks are among destinations for the guided walks, and stargazers will be hoping for a clear sky during a night-time walk up Blencathra.

Silva will be offering navigation workshops for those who want to develop their skills and every walk booking comes complete with a Trekmates gift.

To celebrate the launch of their mountainXT products, Trekmates and the British Association of International Mountain Leaders are also offering a range of mountain experience days, which include skills sessions and guided routes that take in as many as nine Wainwrights in a day.

Kate Thomas, director of the Keswick Mountain Festival said: “This year we have a fantastic range of walks for all abilities.

“Keswick is surrounded by some of the most amazing lakes and fells in Britain and our programme is designed to take in the fullest range of routes, peaks and scenery possible.

“Whether it’s scrambling up Sharp Edge or strolling around Derwent Water, there’s something for visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy.”

The Keswick Mountain Festival is now in its sixth year. More information about the festival and its individual events and a ticket-booking facility are on the festival website.