Helvellyn Lake District History Walk | 3rd June

This social walk will celebrate the centenary of the very first landing of an aeroplane on a British mountain top in 1926

The walk will be led by Gordon Lightburn, with support from assistant leaders nominated by the Mountain Training Association.

This social walk has been planned to celebrate the centenary of the very first landing of an aeroplane on a British mountain top, in 1926 – on the plateau below the summit of Helvellyn. The incredible story of this most improbable achievement is one of drama, determination, jeopardy and humour. Other notable aspects from the annals of Helvellyn’s history will also feature. So, as well as reaching the summit of probably the most popular mountain in the Lake District, you can learn something of its history. The walk involves a lot of ascent and is at times rocky underfoot, it is ideal for enthusiastic hill walkers keen to develop a deeper connection with the landscape and particularly valuable for aspiring or qualified Mountain Leaders looking to broaden their cultural and historical understanding of this iconic mountain!

We’re excited to welcome you for a memorable day in the outdoors!

Walk Details

Walk Grading: Challenging

Distance: Approx 9 km (5.5 miles)

Ascent: 760 m (2,800 ft)

Duration: Approximately 5 hours

If you or anyone in your party can’t attend after booking, please let us know so we can offer the place to others

Meeting Details

Time: Wednesday 3rd June, 09:20 am for a 09:30 am start

Location: Wythburn Car Park, A591, Keswick, CA12 4TW

OS Grid Ref: NY 32449 13604

Google map pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bzVL3cpUria1R4px6

What 3 Words: intensely.remotes.sprays

Parking: Pay & Display

Please check out the BMC Liftshare service

Facilities: None at start. Pub at end

Public Transport: The route starts and finishes at points on the A591 road, the major road through the heart of the Central Lakes, linking Kendal, Windermere, Ambleside, Grasmere and Keswick. Stagecoach 555 buses run every 30 minutes during the summer. It is expected that participants can travel between the start/end points by bus. Therefore, it is possible to do this walk using public transport starting at any convenient parking spot on the A591, providing adequate time is allowed.

What to Bring

We’ll cover a range of terrains, so please ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate gear

Footwear: Sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots or hiking shoes with good grip

Clothing: Dress in layers, including a warm layer and waterproofs, as conditions can vary; bring a hat and gloves

Food and Drink: Bring enough food and water for a full day’s walk; there will be no places to purchase refreshments en route

Other Essentials: Although we plan to finish within daylight hours, carrying a small torch or head torch is advisable for emergencies. Sun cream is advisable on warmer days

Who Can Attend

Anyone – 12 minimum age. Under 18's must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Dogs are not allowed, as we expect to encounter sheep with young lambs on the walk.

Health Precautions: If you have any health conditions that might impact your participation, please inform us in advance. Carry any required medications, and let the walk leader know if assistance may be needed in accessing them

If you are unsure of your ability or would like advice regarding kit and suitability for this walk, please email the leader in advance

This walk incurs a £2 donation fee towards our hill walking projects. If you are unable to pay this fee, please contact us in advance, and we will anonymously include you for free

BMC Participation Statement

The BMC recognises that climbing, hill walking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement

Photographs may be taken by the leader for future communications about the programme. If you do not wish for your photograph to be taken please let the leader know in advance or at the start of the walk

By participating in this walk you agree to act in a kind and inclusive manner. Bullying, discrimination or the use of foul language will not be tolerated

Questions

Feel free to contact BMC Hill Walking Officer, Josh: josh@thebmc.co.uk