UK Hiking Holidays
Here in the UK we are lucky to have such a variety of different landscapes and scenery, and one of the best ways to experience this is on a hiking holiday. Lots of companies offer accommodation in popular areas along with suggestions of routes and hikes, but it’s more fun doing it yourself and creating your own holiday experience.
Before you start packing your rucksack with your compass, Berghaus waterproofs, OS maps and 1000 mile socks, the first decision is to where you’re going to walk. One of the most popular areas for hiking is the Lake District, and deservedly so. There is a huge choice of accommodation possibilities, from basic lodgings in a bunkhouse or youth hostel to luxurious hotels and bed and breakfast places where you can soak in the bath after a long day on the hills. If you’re planning on staying in the same location for a few days and doing day trips another good choice is to book your own self catering cottage. Researching online will show you just what is available for the time you’re planning to travel and give you an idea about prices and facilities. Tourist information offices in the area will also gladly give you information about types of accommodation and help you with booking something.
Although the Lakes are one of the most beautiful areas of the country and the hiking is spectacular, mountains can always be a dangerous place and you should follow a few simple safety rules before setting off. Ensure you tell someone where you’re going, and when you expect to be back. Check the weather forecasts regularly and don’t set off if fog, snow or high winds are expected. Take your mobile phone and a fluorescent jacket in case you get into difficulty and need to be located quickly on the hills. It’s always best to go out onto the hills in a small group so you can support each other if needs be.
When leaving for a day out on the mountains ensure you’ve got a good quality map and compass that you are confident in using. Map reading skills are essential if the weather closes in and visibility is reduced. Pack an extra pair of the 1000 mile socks in case your feet get wet, and perhaps a torch in case you’re longer than expected and have to return in darkness. Layer up your clothing so you can add or remove these layers as needed. Finally, don’t forget to pack the Kendal Mint Cake, or any other sugary, instant energy snack which is light to carry but will give you that instant boost of energy to tackle the final ascent to the top of the mountain.