Kendal Mint Cake: Winter Hiking in the Lake District

The weather shouldn’t stop you getting out and exploring, but you do need to be prepared when hiking during the winter months. As residents of Kendal, we want to share some top tips and advice because Quiggin’s believes that the Lakes are beautiful all year round.

Before setting off on a hike, whatever the season, you need to make sure you have planned. However, during the winter months, it is essential that you prepare fully and understand what you need in order to remain safe when fell walking.

Be Prepared

Days are shorter in the winter. The sun will set earlier, meaning it will start to get darker mid-afternoon. If you are planning a long walk, it is best that you set off early. You don’t want to be on top of a mountain when the light starts to disappear.

It is also vital that you check the weather before you set off. The Lake District can experience all four seasons in one day, and the climate can change very quickly. The higher peaks can be snow-covered from November so understanding what the weather will be like will help you stay safe on your hike.

Make sure you have a route planned. Plot a course and stick to the main footpaths. If the weather changes suddenly, you can become disorientated and lose your way, so having a map and a compass will help. Don’t rely on your mobile phone. Signal is sketchy up on the hills, so you do need to have a route planned and a map ready to use.

And please don’t forget to tell somebody where you are going. Share the route with them and give them an estimated return time. Then, if something should happen and you don’t return, they can alert the right people.

Pack Well

You will need to take more items with you if you are hiking in the winter. The more prepared you are, the safer you will be if an accident were to happen.

Have a torch. If you do get caught out and the sun begins setting, you will have light to help you home. A torch can also be used to help people find you if you are lost or hurt.

A whistle is also a good thing to pack. Again, it can be used if search and rescue are trying to find you.

Take extra clothes. The temperature drops 1 degree for every 150 metres you ascend so more layers, and extra socks, hats and gloves will make sure you stay warm.

Sunglasses may seem odd during the winter, but on a beautiful day, the glare from the sun on the snow can be very bright. Sunglasses can also protect your eyes from strong winds and snow blizzards.

You will need plenty of food and drink. Take more than you think you will need. Staying hydrated is essential, and you need to keep your energy levels high. That’s where our Kendal Mint Cake comes in handy. It’s the perfect energy bar providing your body with the fuel it needs. Your body naturally craves sugar the higher you climb so having a mint cake to hand means you are giving the body what it needs.

Dress Properly

Please make sure you wear the right clothes when you go winter hiking. Make sure you layer up so you can stay warm. It will be cold on the tops. You will need a warm waterproof and windproof jacket and waterproof trousers. Walking boots are a must, and you can buy insulated ones that will make sure your feet stay warm. One of our top tips would be to get yourself some gaiters too, especially if it has snowed. Gaiters clip under your boots and finish at the knee and will stop your feet getting wet if you find yourself wading through deep snow. You will also need a hat and gloves, and a buff can be used as a scarf. It will also keep your nose nice and warm.

Enjoy the Beautiful Scenery

For us, the best part of hiking during these winter months is how quiet it can be. Being out of season means you can often find you’re the only one sitting on a peak enjoying your mint cake and taking in the spectacular views.

Even if you can’t get to the Lakes this winter, you can still enjoy our tips and go hiking closer to home. And, the best thing is, you can still order your Quiggin’s Kendal Mint Cake from our online shop.

Make sure Quiggin’s Kendal Mint Cake accompanies you on your next adventure.