Walkers on the Buttermere fells, one of the more strenuous walks on offer. Photo: Steve Razzetti
Night-time ascents of Lakeland fells, scrambling on the area’s edges and the chance to bag a few more Wainwrights are on offer at an upcoming mountain festival.
Organisers of the Keswick Mountain Festival say their programme of hikes is their biggest yet, and anyone booking a place on one of more than 30 guided walks will have the chance to enter a competition with a prize worth £2,000. Free Trekmates gifts are also available for those booking a walk.
Each walk will be led by a fully qualified local guide, who will not only make sure that walkers are safe and comfortable during their hike, but will also inform and entertain participants with their deep knowledge of the Lake District, festival bosses said.
Kate Thomas, director of Keswick Mountain Festival, said: “Walking has always been at the heart of the Keswick Mountain Festival programme.
“How could it not be when we’re surrounded by such a fantastic landscape? We have put together a schedule of more than 30 guided walks, designed to offer as much variety as possible, both in terms of the routes they take and the level of experience needed to tackle them.
“Our aim is for the hike programme to appeal to Lake District veterans and new visitors alike. So, on one hand we have some great challenging walks, such as scaling Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, and walking up Blencathra by night.
“At the other end scale we have some wonderful family walks with stunning views, taking in the great Wainwrights to the quiet beauty of Dock Tarn.”
The organisers have also teamed up with Trekmates for a competition that will see one person and three companions win a special Lake District experience. The winner of Lakeland 3000ers will be rewarded with an authentic two-day Lakes adventure that will involve climbing England’s four highest mountains: Scafell Pike, Scafell, Helvellyn and Skiddaw.
The prize, worth £2,000, includes accommodation, incorporating one night of wild camping, meals and £500-worth of Trekmates gear.
The winner will be looked after throughout the weekend by a guide from the British Association of International Mountain Leaders, allowing them to enjoy the experience with peace of mind.
Entrants have to state in 250 words or fewer why they should win, who they would take with them, and why. Closing date is 27 May and details, along with the hike programme, can be found on the Keswick Mountain Festival website.
TGO magazine is also sponsoring the walks programme.
The winner will be chosen by a panel of judges from Keswick Mountain Festival and Trekmates.
