I attempted this walk in May 2016 after months of planning. Unfortunately I had to terminate the walk actually at Grasmere. I was backpacking/ wild camping with a few nights at youth hostels "thrown in" . In hindsight(the perfect science) I would have :- a) attempted to persuade a companion to accompany me on the walk so as to share the equipment and to offer moral support when the going got tough. I have to say the weather was very favourable at the time. b)Attempted the walk East to West. I am not saying that I would have completed the walk, but am confident I would have completed more than the measly 40 miles I did achieve. c) Taken a set of walking poles with me. It was the "brutal" descents as much as the ascents in the Lakes that finished me off. Even now, several months on I have a permanent clicking sound in one of my joints which sometimes is a little uncomfortable. I must stress that I am 63 years of age, but considered myself fit and able enough for the challenge. I still do! Whether I will get another chance to attempt the walk is doubtful, but, one never knows!
Great video, i did it in 87, east to west, we wanted to finish in the Lakes, i have traveled all over the world, and still say it is the greatest 2 weeks i ever had, wish my legs would let me do it now,
For city people, as we are, it might be better to start from Robin Hood's Bay on the east and go west. By the time you get to the Lake District you will be stronger and in better shape for the ups and downs of the Lake District. Meanwhile, get in shape for an Everest trek, with strong knees and ankles built up, and you will be fine. Go up and down stairs 20 times or more a day and you will get strong enough. Practice going up and down on tiptoes too to build up your foot muscles and ankles. It's not going up that gets you, it's going down. So be careful of foot health and keep your toenails very short for the trip. Also plan your biggest ups for morning and your downs for afternoon if you can. Trevel ultra light, but for English weather - wind and rain- you will need a good strong tent. I don't think an ultra tight tent will cut it since they depend on trekking poles which easily blow over in a high wind.
Thank you, great video ... some outstanding photo's and so very helpful. I am considering my 1st walking holiday next year at the age of 50 and your video advice has been extremely helpful, even though my first holiday will not be coast to coast, eventually it will be. :) many thanks
I attempted this walk in May 2016 after months of planning. Unfortunately I had to terminate the walk actually at Grasmere. I was backpacking/ wild camping with a few nights at youth hostels "thrown in" . In hindsight(the perfect science) I would have :- a) attempted to persuade a companion to accompany me on the walk so as to share the equipment and to offer moral support when the going got tough. I have to say the weather was very favourable at the time. b)Attempted the walk East to West. I am not saying that I would have completed the walk, but am confident I would have completed more than the measly 40 miles I did achieve. c) Taken a set of walking poles with me. It was the "brutal" descents as much as the ascents in the Lakes that finished me off. Even now, several months on I have a permanent clicking sound in one of my joints which sometimes is a little uncomfortable. I must stress that I am 63 years of age, but considered myself fit and able enough for the challenge. I still do! Whether I will get another chance to attempt the walk is doubtful, but, one never knows!
Go get that joint checked out right away. That is not normal and will get worse! Feed your bones! and joints.
Great video, i did it in 87, east to west, we wanted to finish in the Lakes, i have traveled all over the world, and still say it is the greatest 2 weeks i ever had, wish my legs would let me do it now,
Did you camp ? Thanx
Great suggestion to break at Grasmere. Take time . Too many folk seem to race at it fir first 3 days
For city people, as we are, it might be better to start from Robin Hood's Bay on the east and go west. By the time you get to the Lake District you will be stronger and in better shape for the ups and downs of the Lake District. Meanwhile, get in shape for an Everest trek, with strong knees and ankles built up, and you will be fine. Go up and down stairs 20 times or more a day and you will get strong enough. Practice going up and down on tiptoes too to build up your foot muscles and ankles. It's not going up that gets you, it's going down. So be careful of foot health and keep your toenails very short for the trip. Also plan your biggest ups for morning and your downs for afternoon if you can. Trevel ultra light, but for English weather - wind and rain- you will need a good strong tent. I don't think an ultra tight tent will cut it since they depend on trekking poles which easily blow over in a high wind.
Thank you, great video ... some outstanding photo's and so very helpful.
I am considering my 1st walking holiday next year at the age of 50 and your video advice has been extremely helpful, even though my first holiday will not be coast to coast, eventually it will be. :)
many thanks
Thank you! Some really good points. Stunning photography!!
I did it in 1987 and did stay in Grasmere. No information then but common sense prevailed.
Great tips. I’m doing thus walk next year in April/May. Did you go alone or with others?
We intend wild camping ,no logistical problems!