Many of the best approaches to the higher Lake District peaks are not necessarily the most popular. As an example Skiddaw from Keswick is much bettered by an approach from the north. I have listed below 10 of my favourite alternative’ approaches to the Lakes highest fells. They are particularly useful for those who have…

One of the main attractions of walking in the North York Moors is the variety of walks. Choose between the wild moors, peaceful countryside, ancient abbeys, forestry and riverside strolls. Add in the coast andthe options are seeingly endless. The main issue therefore is which walks to choose. Having walked the area over a number…

One of the best ways of enjoying a walk is to hop on a train (or bus) for a stop or two and walk back. It opens up many more walking possibilities simply because you cover more new ground. Try it. One Way Walks in the Yorkshire Dales I am very fortunate to live on…

Heading up Catbells, Helvellyn, Snowdon or any one of the 3 Peaks in Yorkshire this summer will likely be very busy, too busy for me. There are so many hidden gems there is no need to follow the crowds. I have listed my own favourite 10 below where you are unlikely to see more than…

What would be a more fitting legacy than to relaunch the excellent Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) award scheme following the death of its patron. With government support (even legislation) it could be significant driver for reversing the increasing physical and mental problems of our young. Fresh air, exercise, new skills, group work with friends, understanding…

The Yorkshire Dales has a rich and wonderful history. Complete this set of 10 historical walks and you will have a much better understanding of the area than from a guide book or the tv. Take a walk through history. These 10 walks cover the geology of the area as well as man’s influence through…

Nearly 100,000 walkers came to the Yorkshire Dales in 2019 to climb the 3 Peaks (24 miles, 5,500 feet of climbing).  The difficulty and distance make a completion a cause for great satisfaction. Sadly most will never return. As a guide on the 3 Peaks I would estimate 60 to 70% of walkers complete the…

If you would prefer to take a walk or explore in places to avoid the crowds how about visiting these 10 rarely visited dales and valleys in the Dales and Lakes. It is likely to be very busy in the National Parks of Yorkshire and the Lake District this summer. However there is some excellent…

Holidaying in the UK is likely to be extremely popular this summer. The best known places may well be over run with visitors, ruining the experience for them and making it miserable for the poor residents. All the photos reflect walks in beautiful areas of the Dales and Lakes where you are unlikely to see…

One of the great pleasures of walking in the Lake District are the mountain tarns. Created by the work of glaciers around 15,000 years ago the tarns are the location of many of the most picturesque views. These are my favourites. The tarns in the Lake District (known as corries in Scotland, cwms in Wales)…

On a walk in the Dales I like to explore, on a walk in the lake District I tend to crave excitement. Both walks in the Dales and the Lakes offer a sense of adventure, just a different one. The Lakes charms are more obvious, publicised and up front. The Dales appeal is more hidden,…

With very few lakes or mountain tarns in the area (plenty of reservoirs though!) the rivers of the Yorkshire Dales provides the watery backdrop to some of the best walks. Each of the main dales of the region has their own river. In fact many of the dales are named after the river, such is…