Bargain price! Autumn nights at Wasdale
37 people attending
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This stunning location at Wasdale is very rarely available, yet we have managed to put this hostel on at an absolute bargain price for the benefit of our members - way, way below our usual hostel costs and we'll absolutely never get Wasdale at this price again - don't miss this one if you want to experience this fantastic location at an absolute steal of a price!
This 19th century country manor is every bit as grand as its name would suggest. This Cumbrian hostel is a true OutdoorLads favourite due to the impressive nature of the building and genuinlely breath-taking scenery which has earned the title of 'Britain’s Favourite View'.
It is is set right on the shore of Wastwater, England’s deepest lake, from the hostel you can see the expanse of the lake plus the awe-inspiring mountains beyond - perfect for getting away with other Outdoorlads for the weekend and relaxing in beautiful surroundings.
PARKRUN ADDED!!!!! There has also been interest in taking part in the Muncaster Castle parkrun - you can register on this link!!
We'll tailor walk options on the weekend taking account of the group - if you are a mountain leader we'd especially welcome you joining us to lead a high level walk, and we have a range of lower level options ready to go, to suit the group at the time, including shorter hike options. There will also be time for relaxing in front of the fire (feel free to bring along any wood bundles that you might have) and enjoying the Autumnal cosiness and views!
Walk options may include this 10km Seatallan route; this 11km Middle Fell loop; or something a bit more adventurous!!
If you are coming, remember that we have this Telegram group for everyone to chat and plan!
The weekend plans are:
- Friday - plan on arriving after 16:00, find a bed, get settled in and enjoy the traditional OutdoorLads Friday buffet. Please bring something to serve 2 or 3; perhaps you have a favourite homemade dish, or like a good cheese board!
- Saturday - after the included breakfast (and based on the weather) we can choose from these walks:
- this just short of 12km round trip summitting of Seatallan (at a summit height of 692m);
- this 10km River Irt and Buckbarrow circular, or maybe
- this 11km summitting of Middle Fell (at a summit height of 582m)
- After returning to the hostel get ready for a refilling autumn dinner!
- Sunday - Wake up to bacon, sausage and breakfast goodies, then we all pitch in and clean the hostel .
We will come up with some ideas for Saturday evening after dinner - perhaps a short night walk or star-gazing!
Please note that there is limited wi-fi in the hostel; mobile reception is "fair".
Dogs: Dogs welcome; simply email support@outdoorlads.com to register!
Tell your friends about this great weekend as there is still plenty of space. The Lake District in early winter can be beautiful!
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Shuld you have any questions please email the leader on chris.keivit@outdoorlads.com.
Photos: All photos taken by YHA or ODL members and used by OutdoorLads with permission.
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
Bedding is provided, but you will need your own towel, and of course clothing, wash kit etc for the weekend.
Should you need any of the items below, remember that ODL members get discounts at Cotswold Outdoors, Snow + Rock and Berghaus
Boots: All hikes should be suitable for both hiking boots and mid-ankle hiking shoes. Waterproof and breathable are the best options (Craghoppers Mens Kiwi Light and Abbeydale Mid are good entry-level options from Cotswold).
Socks: Merino wool socks provide the best moisture-wicking and Craghoppers provide a number of affordable "quick-dry" options.
Gaiters: Gaiters can be an essential piece of kit in boggy, wet conditions, and a pair could be beneficial this weekend.
Walking Trousers: Both Craghoppers and Jack Wolfskin make several styles of affordable walking trousers. The best pair would have a large map pocket, as well as other zippable pockets and should be water-repellent.
Waterproof Trousers: As above, Craghoppers, Jack Wolfskin and Mountain Warehouse all stock an excellent selection of waterproof trousers. It is recommended that you have a pair as the weather could change quickly.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This could be a cheaper sports top or you could go top of the range with a merino top, as cotton t-shirts can become damp and uncomfortable when hiking in late November in the (possible) snow.
Other Layers: On top of your base layer, you can have a variety of options such as a micro fleece, a fleece jacket or a rugby/sports top can sometimes be good. Having one or two additional layers gives you flexibility when the weather is changeable – the more layers, the more flexible you can be in adapting to the weather.
Waterproof Jacket: Good waterproof jackets can range from £30 to over £300! At a minimum, the jacket should have fully taped seams, an adjustable hem, elastic cuffs and at least 1 inside pocket.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential. because we are up north in late November, something to cover ears is strongly recommended.
Rucksack: For day walks a 20-30 litre capacity rucksack should be sufficient for carrying the essentials. Ideally it should have padded waist straps, several outside pockets and a rain cover.
Map & Compass: If you want to learn to be a leader or you just like to know where you are, then you can bring a map that covers the area - Ordnance Survey Explorer 6 is the best for the area. It is best to bring your map either in a map case or purchase maps which are waterproof.
Food & drink
Friday night buffet: Please bring one item for the buffet that can be shared easily. Please note there are very few grocery stores in the area. There is a Tesco Superstore in Carnforth, Booth's in Milnthorpe and Asda in Kendal but that is it for large-scale shopping! If you are unsure what others are thinking of bringing, then please use the comments section below or the Telegram chat.
Saturday breakfast is of course included in the cost of the event and will be something to give us the energy to attack the snow-covered hills! Cereal, oatmeal, bacon, sausage and juices will be available as well.
Saturday lunch: You will need to bring lunch from the hostel, as there are no shops along the route.
Saturday dinner: Included in the event cost, and will be hearty and filling, with all dietary requirements being met!
Sunday breakfast: As we need to vacate by 10.00, it will be simple but substantial enough to prepare us for the long drives home.