There are 214 Wainwrights – my children have successfully completed 8 of these to date!
While that might sound pitiful to some, for those that know of, or have indeed completed the Wainwright walks, you’ll be aware that this is no easy slog.
Alfred Wainwright documented the 214 ‘official’ peaks, and to summit all 214 fells is considered the ultimate peak bagging of the Lake District.
Of course, it’ll take my family many years to complete these walks, as there are some incredibly tricky peaks in there! That being said, there’s no reason why children can’t be involved in ‘wainwright bagging’ from a young age; inspiring and encouraging their love of the outside as you go!
When you’re heading out for a fell walk with younger children, there’s a different level of preparation that’s needed.
Here are a few basic tips that may help your family prepare before heading out Wainwright bagging!
Preparing for the weather
Unlike park walks or forest walks, you really have to take into account the possibility of severe weather changes when fell walking.
While it can feel warm and sunny at the bottom of the peak, as you steadily climb, things can drastically change and extra layers should always be packed.
We never begin our fell walks without ensuring we’ve packed plenty of extra layers. Thin all-in-one waterproofs are also a huge must in our household! I find that depending on the terrain, my children either wear their wellies on these walks, or their walking boots.
Snacks
We all know how much of our day revolves around snack time! This certainly doesn’t change while out fell walking. In fact, without snacks to get them through the walk, you could find yourself having to deal with a hungry toddler meltdown! Not an ideal combination when staggering up the side of a mountain.
I always pack the children’s favourite snacks when fell walking. The odd treat is necessary when climbing mountains, and these treats could also work well as bribes or distractions to reach the top of the summit when times get tough.
Route planning
This may sound obvious but you’d be surprised at how many times we’ve been out walking in the Lake District and have encountered families unsure of the route to the summit, or the way back to their car.
Thankfully the 8 wainwright walks that we’ve completed have simple routes that begin and end close to where you park your car.
The simpler the route the better when walking with younger children.
Prior to embarking on your fell walk, make sure you know where to park your car, how far you expect to be walking, and where your half-way marker is – I find this is vital with kids.
If you work towards your half-way marker then the second half of the walk feels like the home straight and often goes a lot easier.
The most important thing to remember through all of this is why you’re there, remember what made your family embark on a fell walk and don’t forget…if all is going pear-shaped then you can turn round and try again another day.
The key is to avoid children feeling like walking is a negative experience – keep it fun and light-hearted where possible. And of course, don’t forget to enjoy yourself!
You can find the Wainwright routes that Laura and her family have completed over on www.thehikinghousehold.com