Britain's What's On Event Guide
Helvellyn Winter Skills Day | Guided Walk with Dougie Walker
Prepare for the colder months with this guided winter skills day on Helvellyn, one of the Lake District’s most iconic fells. This full-day adventure focuses on identifying and managing the risks of mountain travel in winter conditions while enjoying a classic ascent in a stunning Cumbrian setting.
Led by Dougie Walker, a highly experienced Mountain Leader with expeditions spanning the Norwegian and Greenland Arctic and countless days in the UK hills, this practical day blends challenge with learning.
You’ll develop confidence and awareness around:
Winter equipment essentials and how to use them effectively
Safe movement on snow and ice
Route planning, hazard recognition, and risk management
Strategies for poor visibility and emergency scenarios
(If conditions allow) techniques for building snow shelters and using ice axe & crampons
This is a day for competent hillwalkers looking to extend their adventures through the winter season or prepare for trips to alpine or arctic environments.
Please note: location may be adjusted on the day to make best use of prevailing conditions.
What to Bring
Ice axe and crampons (hire available locally; limited loan stock—request in advance)
Mountaineering or stiff-soled walking boots (B1 or above recommended)
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Insulating layers, hat, gloves, spare gloves
Goggles and headtorch
Rucksack (30–40 L)
Hot drink, packed lunch, and high-energy snacks
Map, compass, and whistle
Personal medication and emergency items
Led by Dougie Walker, a highly experienced Mountain Leader with expeditions spanning the Norwegian and Greenland Arctic and countless days in the UK hills, this practical day blends challenge with learning.
You’ll develop confidence and awareness around:
Winter equipment essentials and how to use them effectively
Safe movement on snow and ice
Route planning, hazard recognition, and risk management
Strategies for poor visibility and emergency scenarios
(If conditions allow) techniques for building snow shelters and using ice axe & crampons
This is a day for competent hillwalkers looking to extend their adventures through the winter season or prepare for trips to alpine or arctic environments.
Please note: location may be adjusted on the day to make best use of prevailing conditions.
What to Bring
Ice axe and crampons (hire available locally; limited loan stock—request in advance)
Mountaineering or stiff-soled walking boots (B1 or above recommended)
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Insulating layers, hat, gloves, spare gloves
Goggles and headtorch
Rucksack (30–40 L)
Hot drink, packed lunch, and high-energy snacks
Map, compass, and whistle
Personal medication and emergency items
Saturday 3 Jan 26
Swirls Car ParkKeswick Cumbria CA12 4TW
Date: Saturday 3rd JanuaryPrice: £65
Distance: 8 km | Duration: 5–7 hours (weather dependent) | Grade: 8/10
Start/Finish: Swirls Car Park, Thirlmere (what3words: ///salad.alternate.lifts)
Guide: Dougie Walker – Mountain Leader
Organised by
Guided Outdoor Adventures
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