There are lots of things we can do for fitness. From lifting weights in the gym, to running on the treadmill to swimming in the pool. Lots of these things we pay for are indoor activities. How about getting outside, being active, enjoying some fresh air and witnessing fabulous views, for free? Let’s have a look at how a trip to the Lake District and some easy Wainwrights can be the perfect fitness hike for you!
What Are The Wainwrights?
Firstly, what exactly are Wainwrights? Well, Wainwrights are the 200+ fells in the Lake District, as described in Alfred Wainwright‘s seven-volume Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells. Lots of people spend many hours walking in the District, bagging Wainwrights as they go. With 214 of them, some are extremely popular and others are rarely touched. How does walking the Wainwrights sound to you?
How High Are They?
If you are considering hiking the Wainwrights, you might want to consider which ones are ideal for your level of fitness. The smallest Wainwright is Castle Crag and is 985′ whereas the tallest is Scafell Pike at 3210′. There are plenty in the middle too. We’re going to mention a few easy Wainwrights but realistically, you need a half decent level of fitness to go hiking in the Lakes and you should always tell someone where you will be heading. The What3Words app is a fantastic addition to your mobile phone, should the worst happen!
Free & Freedom
Don’t forget, these walks are free and you can take on as many or as few fells as you wish. If you look at one mountain and consider it too much of a challenge, find another one which is more your pace. Any money you do spend will likely be on parking and a lot of this money goes straight back into the local area. Financing the maintenance of walking routes and keeping the Lake District a beauty spot for all.
Easy Wainwrights For Fitness
Let’s have a look at some of the easy Wainwrights where you can begin your hiking journey and build up your fitness for free.
Black Fell
At 1056 feet, Black Fell is in the Southern fells and gives wonderful views of the upper Windermere area. The hill also provides the backdrop of one of the most idealistic views in the Lakes, that of Tarn Hows.
Loughrigg Fell
In the Central fells, Loughrigg can be found between Rydal Water and the River Brathay. It is a lovely part of the Lakes, well worth the 1101 feet ascent.
Heron Pike
If you fancy climbing over 2000 feet, Heron Pike on the Eastern fells is a wonderful hike and offers spectacular views. It is often climbed as part of the horseshow route but
Silver How
A wonderful wedge between the Langdales and Loughrigg is Silver How. The route from Grassmere is a fine walk, offering stunning views of nearby lakes. It is 1292 feet high.
Latrigg
In the Northern fells, Latrigg is 1203 feet and Skiddaw’s lowliest southern foothill. It is a popular ascent from Keswick, offering beautiful views over Derwent Water.
Walking The Wainwrights
These are just a handful of easy Wainwrights for you to hike and enjoy some free fitness and fantastic views. Make sure you equip yourself with some proper walking shoes and take a snack with you too. The Lake District has so many incredible walks to offer and these easy Wainwrights are a wonderful gateway into exploring and enjoying the area.
