Resources & References: Lake District

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for Your Journey

OS Maps:
Detailed Ordnance Survey maps for hiking, with GPS tracking even offline. Available via Amazon.
Stagecoach Bus App:
Real-time bus tracking, timetables, and journey planning for local bus services.
Met Office App:
Accurate and localized weather forecasts for the UK.
What3Words:
A simple way to identify precise locations using three unique words.
Google Maps/Apple Maps:
Useful for driving directions, general navigation, and finding local businesses.

Useful Websites for Planning

Lake District National Park Authority:
Lakedistrict.gov.uk (Official site for park information).
Go Lakes (Cumbria Tourism):
Golakes.co.uk (Official tourism for Cumbria).
National Rail Enquiries:
Nationalrail.co.uk (For train journeys across the UK).
Stagecoach Bus:
Stagecoachbus.com (Detailed bus timetables and routes).
National Trust:
Nationaltrust.org.uk (Information on their Lake District properties).

Print Resources

Ordnance Survey Maps

These detailed 1:25,000 scale maps are important for serious hiking.

Find maps here

Walking Guides

Look for specific Lake District walking guidebooks by publishers like Cicerone Press or Collins Rambler's Guides. They typically include detailed route descriptions, difficulty ratings, and points of interest.

Explore walking guides

Literary Works

Books rooted in the Lake District landscape deepen your experience.

Wainwright's Guides Beatrix Potter Stories

Emergency & Medical Information

Contact Numbers

999: For all emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard, Mountain Rescue).
111: For non-emergency medical advice (NHS 111).
Closest Hospitals: Westmorland General (Kendal), West Cumberland (Whitehaven), Cumberland Infirmary (Carlisle).
Your country's embassy or consulate in London for consular assistance.

Safety & Procedures

Report lost or stolen passports/visas to Police immediately; get a crime reference number.
Contact your country's embassy for assistance in obtaining replacement travel documents.
Monitor local news and Met Office for severe weather warnings.
Follow advice from local authorities and Lake District National Park Authority during incidents.

Safety & Well-being

Mountain Safety Essentials

Navigation Skills

Always carry map and compass.
Know how to use navigation tools effectively.
Download offline maps for areas with poor signal.
Plan your route carefully and stick to it.

Weather Preparedness

Check the Met Office forecast regularly.
Be ready for rapid weather changes in the fells.
Pack waterproof and warm layers, even on sunny days.
Avoid taking risks in adverse weather conditions.

Emergency Gear

A well-stocked first aid kit is important.
Carry a headlamp or torch with spare batteries.
An emergency whistle for signaling is a simple safety measure.
A fully charged phone for emergencies (signal may be unreliable).

Eco-Conscious Exploration

Leave No Trace

Pack out all rubbish, including food scraps.
Stay on marked paths to prevent erosion.
Avoid disturbing wildlife or natural features.

Community Respect

Always close gates behind you when crossing land.
Give space to livestock and do not feed animals.
Only camp in designated areas to minimize impact.

Lake Activities Safety

Swimming & Boating

Know your limits in cold water and enter slowly.
Wear a buoyancy aid for all water activities.
Check wind conditions on lakes before setting out.

Ghyll Scrambling/Canyoning

Engage qualified guides for adventure sports.
Be aware of water levels and currents in natural gorges.
Always wear appropriate safety gear.

Daily Activity Considerations

Morning Preparations

Check the latest weather forecast for your planned activities.
Pack sufficient snacks and water for your day's journey.
Ensure all electronic devices (phone, camera, GPS) are fully charged.
Inform someone of your intended route and estimated return time.
Wear clothing and footwear appropriate for the day's conditions and activity.

Evening Reflections

Review the day's activities, noting any highlights or challenges.
Begin planning for the next day's itinerary, weather permitting.
Relax and rehydrate after outdoor exertion.
Clean and organize your gear for the next outing.
Enjoy local dining experiences or prepare a cozy meal in.

Information Points

Local Advice

Visitor centers offer personalized tips and current conditions for trails and attractions.

Maps & Guides

Purchase detailed maps, walking guides, and local publications for your journey.

Event Listings

Discover current local events, markets, and special attractions during your visit.

Important Safety Notice

Mountain weather changes rapidly. Always carry suitable gear and possess navigation knowledge.

Continuing Your Journey

Literary & Artistic Connections

Discover Inspiration

Wainwright's Legacy:
Explore the fells through the iconic guides of Alfred Wainwright, a beloved figure.
Wordsworth's Poetry:
Visit Grasmere and Rydal to connect with William Wordsworth's poetic influence.
Beatrix Potter's World:
Discover the landscapes behind Peter Rabbit's beloved children's tales.

Artistic Echoes

Landscape Painting:
The Lake District continues to inspire artists with its dramatic vistas.
Folk Traditions:
Local music and oral traditions reflect the region's heritage.
Photography Inspiration:
Every turn presents an opportunity for stunning photographic captures.

Sustainable Travel Practices

Resource Conservation

Be mindful of energy and water consumption during your stay. Turn off lights and heating when departing.

Public Transport Priority

Choose buses, trains, or lake steamers over private cars to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions.

Eco-Certified Accommodation

Support businesses that prioritize environmental sustainability in their operations.

Connecting with Locals

Respectful Interactions

Engage politely and gratefully with local residents.
Minimize noise, especially in residential areas.
Recognize the Lake District as a living community, not solely a tourist attraction.
Consider learning a few basic phrases to show initiative.

Supporting Local Economy

Prioritize buying from local shops and producers.
Dine at independent and family-run restaurants and pubs.
Stay in independent accommodations, like B&Bs or guesthouses.

Trail & Countryside Etiquette

Countryside Code Guidelines

Protect all animals, plants and trees, and take your litter home.
Keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock.
Leave gates as you find them, whether open or closed.
Follow signs and local access restrictions.

Sharing the Space

Be considerate to other visitors on popular routes.
Share paths courteously with cyclists and horse riders.
Adhere to wild camping rules; it is restricted in many areas.
Respect privacy when taking photos near homes or people.

Support Local Conservation

Consider a donation to Lake District conservation charities or local Mountain Rescue teams. These groups are important for the park's health and safety.

Resources & References