Traverse the Lake District from east to west on this 6-day hiking adventure designed for those new to multi-day expeditions. Covering 100km of varied terrain, you’ll wild camp under the stars, cross scenic passes, and explore quiet corners of the National Park—all with full support and expert guidance.
The route runs the full length of the Lake District National Park, beginning in the east and finishing on the western edge at Ennerdale Bridge. You’ll pass through a broad mix of landscapes: peaceful moorland, high plateaus, lakeshores, glacial valleys, and forested tracks. Much of the journey avoids busier tourist spots, offering a more authentic experience of the area’s natural beauty.
Campsites and wild camping spots have been chosen for their remoteness and comfort, giving you a taste of the Lake District’s wilder side. Locations like Patterdale Valley, Langdale, and Esk Hause offer incredible views and memorable camp settings, while remote ridgelines like those above Ennerdale showcase a part of the park many visitors never see.
You’ll stay two nights in bunkhouse or hostel accommodation—one before and one after the traverse—providing a base for packing, briefing, and recovery. These are clean, simple, and comfortable, and ideal for preparing for or winding down from your expedition.
The remaining nights are spent wild camping, with all necessary gear (tents, sleeping bags, mats, stoves) provided. Sites vary from lakeside to hilltop pitches, all selected to balance shelter, views, and wilderness feel. Campcraft is part of the experience, but guidance is available throughout, and contingency plans are in place for poor weather to ensure comfort and safety.
This trip is suitable for those with a good base level of fitness and a willingness to walk for multiple hours each day with a loaded rucksack. No previous wild camping experience is required, and the leader will provide support with campcraft and gear. The terrain is mixed but follows established tracks, though it can be uneven and weather-dependent in places. A full kit list will be provided to help you prepare.
This adventure company was founded to help people escape the city and access meaningful experiences in the mountains—without needing to fly or take extended time off work. Trips are thoughtfully planned to make use of weekends and shorter timeframes, helping you explore wild places on a tight schedule.
With a focus on British mountains, their guides are highly experienced and passionate about showcasing lesser-known routes and authentic mountain travel. Everything from equipment and logistics to transfers and meals is taken care of, giving you the freedom to enjoy the experience. Whether you’re new to wild camping or looking to build your confidence in expedition hiking, their supportive approach makes sure you feel capable and included every step of the way.
A reasonable level of fitness is required to comfortably complete daily hikes averaging around 15–20km over varied terrain. The route includes mountain passes, uneven paths, and some steep ascents and descents, so you should be confident walking for several hours with a loaded rucksack. Regular walking or hiking in the months leading up to the trip will help you prepare and improve your endurance.
While previous multi-day hiking experience is not necessary, you should be comfortable carrying a full expedition pack and managing physical exertion in potentially changeable weather conditions. The guide will adjust the pace to suit the group and provide support as needed, but being physically ready will make the experience more enjoyable.
You will need to bring personal hiking kit including clothing suitable for mountain weather, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, and a large rucksack (minimum 65 litres) to carry your gear. Essential items include a sleeping bag, sleeping mat, waterproof jacket and trousers, warm layers, headtorch with spare batteries, and personal medication. A full kit list will be provided well in advance to help you prepare.
The trip provides group camping equipment such as tents, cooking gear, and sleeping bags, so you don’t need to bring these unless you prefer your own. It’s important to pack light but adequately to stay warm and dry, as weather in the Lake District can change quickly and dramatically.
All trips are led by qualified and highly experienced Mountain Leaders who know the Lake District intimately. They are trained in navigation, mountain safety, first aid, and expedition logistics to ensure a safe and smooth experience. Their knowledge of the terrain and weather patterns allows them to adapt plans to suit conditions and group needs.
Guides also act as instructors, helping participants develop skills in map reading, wild camping, and outdoor cooking. Their friendly, supportive approach ensures everyone feels included and confident, regardless of prior experience.
The Lake District is known for its unpredictable weather, including rain, wind, and sudden temperature changes. The itinerary is flexible to accommodate weather conditions, with alternative routes or shelter options planned as needed. Your guide will monitor forecasts and make decisions prioritising safety and comfort.
If conditions become too severe for camping, contingency plans include alternative accommodation or adjusted hiking distances. You will be fully briefed on weather preparedness and how to stay safe and comfortable in all conditions.
Accommodation is a mix of bunkhouses or hostels and campsites or wild camping. You will spend two nights in indoor accommodation—one at the start and one at the end of the trip—to prepare for and recover from the expedition. These places are simple but comfortable, offering showers and warm beds.
The other nights are spent wild camping in tents provided by the trip. Sites are carefully selected for safety, shelter, and scenery. While camping involves carrying and setting up your own tent, guides will assist and offer tips, making it accessible even for first-timers.
All meals while hiking are provided, including breakfasts, packed lunches, and dinners. The food is designed to be nutritious, energising, and suitable for outdoor conditions, catering for most dietary requirements when informed in advance. You’ll share cooking responsibilities within the group using the provided camp stoves and utensils.
Snacks and personal extras are not included, so you may want to bring your own favourite energy bars or treats. Water will be available to refill bottles, but you should bring a reliable water container and, optionally, purification tablets or filters if you prefer.
Yes, solo walkers are very welcome on this trip. With group sizes kept small (1–8 people), the experience is personal and supportive. Many participants come alone and quickly form friendships through shared challenges and campfire conversations.
Your guide ensures everyone is included and looks after individual needs. The small group size makes it easy to pace the hike appropriately and fosters a friendly atmosphere, ideal for meeting like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.
Carrying a loaded rucksack is a key part of the experience, with weights typically ranging from 10 to 15 kilograms depending on personal kit and shared equipment. This requires some strength and stamina, so training with a weighted pack before the trip is beneficial.
Your guide will help with packing tips to distribute weight effectively and offer advice on pacing. The terrain includes some uphill sections where the pack feels heavier, but regular breaks and a supportive pace make it manageable for most with reasonable fitness.
About the centre
Oxenholme Train Station
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