Region walkers – anywhere, any weather!

Rain or shine, the Lake District never fails to deliver. Over a weekend in June, region volunteers headed to Hawkshead for a summer walking event that tested our boots, boosted our confidence, and proved that you don’t need perfect weather to have an incredible time in the hills.

From lanes to landslips

We knew the Lake District would be scenic, but even through drizzle and downpours, the dramatic fells and tarns delivered a sense of awe. This wasn’t just a countryside ramble, it was a step up. We tackled steep slopes, navigated challenging scree, and at times the paths became fast-flowing streams. These conditions pushed us to consider not just where we were going, but how we were going to get there.

Whether it was picking a safe line across unstable ground or rethinking our route when visibility dropped, we found ourselves making decisions with real consequences and real learning.

There was joy in discovery too, from spotting rare wild mountain flowers like spotted orchids and carnivorous sundews, to visiting Beatrix Potter’s house and soaking up some of the cultural richness of the area.

Walking as a team sport

Mountain walking might look solitary from a distance, but on this weekend, it became clear just how much it relies on teamwork. From shared map reading to spotting slippery footing, thinking as a group was built into everything we did. Many of us commented how much we learned just by walking alongside more experienced peers, and how much fun we had doing it.

From challenge to celebration

After the mud and the milestones, we made time to celebrate. Whether it was enjoying a BBQ, tucking into fish and chips, cake, or sampling local artisan ice cream, we didn’t just work hard, we played hard too. It wasn’t all wild – the facilities were warm, our gear dried overnight, and everyone found space to rest and reset.

More than just a weekend

Experiences like this don’t stay on the mountain. We took away greater resilience, sharper leadership skills, decision-making under pressure, and dynamic risk awareness, which is already feeding back into our unit guiding. Whether it’s planning adventures with girls or supporting fellow volunteers, the confidence we’ve gained in the hills translates directly into real-world impact.

We came down from the fells feeling proud, not just of the miles walked, but of how we grew as individuals and as a team.

Up for the next one?

If you’ve ever thought mountain walking “isn’t for you”, think again. You don’t need to be super-fit, have all the gear, or be used to roughing it. What you need is curiosity and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. And if the Lake District adventure has you inspired, why not take your next step with us on Dartmoor? Whether you’re looking to walk socially or start your journey towards a walking qualification, there’s room for everyone.

Find out more about our Dartmoor Walking Qualification Weekend on 19-21 September 2025.