Autumn hostel high up in the Lake District
16 people attending
10 places left
Join OutdoorLads for an autumnal hostel weekend near Keswick
Perched right at the very top of Honister Pass, overlooking the slate mines, from here you get a sense of remoteness without the difficulty of getting there (easy to drive or even get a bus to!).
This is a popular OutdoorLads hostel and this year, we have even managed to be able to offer it at a lower price than last time we were here- winner winner.
The hostel is a converted accommodation block from the mines. It's got a large dining / social area with a log burner stove, a decent kitchen, plenty of toilets and hot showers and a great plus- small rooms and no massive dormitory set ups.
Given its location in the Lake District it is highly likely the Saturday full day walk on offer with be a mountain one, so plan accordingly. - we are already at a good altitude, but that doesn't mean we are cheating in any way. Johnny will aim to lead a walk from the hostel, probably taking in Haystacks (Wainwright's favourite!). This of course is only a suggestion as there are almost too many to choose from. For those looking for a more gentle weekend, there may be a lowland walk available or you are free to do your own things, such as visiting the slate mines next door, or take a short drive to nearby Buttermere, Borrowdale or Keswick. There is even a via ferrata on our doorstep- but that is absolutely NOT part of the ODL weekend.
There are 6 parking spaces at the hostel (8 at a tight squeeze), but we can use the large National Trust car park right behind the hostel (free overnight, paid for non-National Trust Members / free for members during the day) - If you're a member, please bring your card and leave the hostel spaces for others!
There will be one dog on the event (the leader's). He's happy to be fussed and have tummy rubs- but please, no treats or scraps from your dinners.
Photos used with permission of the leader
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
What to bring
You will need your toiletries, a towel, hostel clothing, and food (see below).
Bedding is provided but you may wish to bring your own pillow(s).
Below is the standard kit list for mountain walks:
- Water: bring at least two litres in a water bottle, or better still, a hydration bladder
- Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
- Day Rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
- Waterproof bags: keep spare clothing, electronics and anything else dry even when your rucksack leaks by using Ziploc type food bags or, better still, outdoor activity waterproof bags
- Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
- Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
- Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
- Boots: waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good ankle support
- Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
- Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters, and carry a spare, dry pair
- Walking Poles: always optional, love them or hate them, but give them a try and decide for yourself
- Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
- Trousers: no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
- Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
- Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain.
- Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
- Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Emergency equipment: the walk leader will bring any emergency equipment required for the group, but you are welcome to bring any that you have, such as additional high energy food, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire (either storm proof matches or a firelighter
Map and compass: the walk leader will have these, but if you like map reading or want to develop your skills, bring yours along
Mobile Phone: keep it in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies, and a spare battery/charger is a good idea
Food & drink
On Friday evening, we will share a communal buffet- please bring along your contribution and if you can be more imaginative than pizza, we would love that. We'll then make sure you start the day with good spread continental style breakfasts and on Saturday a hearty 2 course homemade evening meal to welcome you back from your day on the fells. Coffee and tea available all weekend. You will need to bring your own provisions for your lunch on Saturday and any other drinks you may want.