Beginner Fastpacking (2 days)

Do you dream of being able to run all day long, free of cares and responsibilities?  Or perhaps the idea of travelling light, exploring the landscape on your two feet, and making a linear journey, appeals to you?  If so, fastpacking is for you.

On our two day introduction to fastpacking trip we will explore the Lake District landscape between Ambleside and Coniston, making a circular route beginning and ending in Ambleside.  Day one will see us travelling into the stunning Langdale valley, before finding our way through the tracks and paths which connect some of the old mining heritage of the area.  A visit to tranquil Tarn Hows and a lovely woodland descent complete the day, before we arrive at a cosy Lakeland pub for the night.

In the evening, you are welcome to spend time as you please - perhaps exploring Coniston village, strolling to Coniston Water for a swim, relaxing in your room or joining others in the bar for social time.  A table will be booked in the pub for the group to eat together; this meal is not included in the trip cost.

Day two has a different feel to the landscape; we return to Ambleside, but this time via the Grizedale Forest and Hawkshead areas, before enjoying the Windermere shoreline.

FAQs

What time will the trip start and end?

We’ll meet for coffee in Ambleside on day one at 9.30am for a 10am start, and we’ll aim to return by 4-5pm on day two to allow for onward travel.

Is this trip suitable for me?

We think that if you are running around 20-25 miles per week, and you could run (at an easy pace) for 2-3 hours two days in a row, you’ll be comfortable on the beginner trip.  Bear in mind that doesn’t mean you need to be doing that regularly in your running - just that you could do it if you tried!

How far will we run?  And how fast?

Our exact routes will depend on the weather and on our group, but we will aim to be moving for 5-6 hours each day, at a leisurely 4-5kph pace. On Into the Hills events we always move at a comfortable pace for the slowest people in the group on the day.

What kit will I need?

We’ll send a kit list prior to the event, but there shouldn’t be much (if anything!) on it that you don’t already have.  The main piece of equipment you will need is a running backpack or vest large enough to hold a few toiletries, food for the days, and a change of overnight clothes.  If you’d like to get ahead on this, have a look at our fastpacking blog, which features Jenny’s packing list for a three day trip.

What is included?

The cost of the trip includes two days' guided running, one night's accommodation in Coniston, and breakfast on day two. Dinner at the pub and food for the time we are running are not included. The maximum group size is six people.

How do I book?

Simply add your ticket(s) below and click 'checkout' to book your place - you'll receive an email with your tickets, and we will be in touch before your course date with full details of the trip and a kit list.  If you have any questions before booking, have a look at our FAQs, or contact us if your question isn't answered . Our cancellation policy can be found on our FAQ page.

Practical notes

1. Please note that the routes described above are indicative rather than final; we will always take into account the weather forecast and the pace of the group when making route decisions.

2. Please contact us if you need to make payment in instalments; we can put a place on hold for you and arrange this.

3. Accommodation for this trip will be in shared twin rooms with someone of the same gender.  If you have a need or a preference for a private room, please contact us.  We can’t guarantee this, but we can hold a place for you while we discuss with our accommodation provider and find out what the additional cost to you would be.

4. Travel and accommodation arrangements before and after the trip are not included; you will need to arrange your own transport to and from Ambleside, and accommodation before and after the trip if required.  If driving, three-day parking permits are available for the Lake District National Park car parks in Ambleside.