Hill Walking

There is nothing that resets your soul more than a day in the hills. The ultimate getaway from technology, people and life stress.

One of my favourite places to walk is The Brecon Beacons and I get teased about how many times I’ve climbed Pen y Fan, however it is the highest peak in South Wales, I don’t always use the same route and I like a challenge! I also LOVE the Lake District making sure I have ticked off the highest peaks there I also like a lakeside ramble too and I’ve travelled to Scotland, explored the Peak District, North Wales and climbed Ben Nevis.

I’ve walked to see waterfalls, find aircraft crash sites, to climb a peak or watch a sunset. Whatever your reason for your walk though, be prepared!

I get asked about what route is the best where to start from what gear you need etc, so I’ll try to include some useful links here and tell you what I take along with me when I set out for a hike.

Basic equipment list which varies depending on the weather but it can still get chilly at the top of a peak even on a sunny day and if you are 4 hours away from your car and it rains, it’s worth having everything you need with you – just in case!

  • Walking boots – I am wearing Salomon boots at present but I also like Scarpa boots.
  • Waterproof – coat and trousers
  • Warm layer – base layer and fleece layer
  • Water (I also pack water purification tablets if on a long hike)
  • Hat and neck snood
  • Gloves
  • Sunscreen
  • Snack
  • Dry liner for backpack
  • Backpack
  • Walking socks
  • Sunglasses
  • Walking poles – not essential but they help with my occassional achilles tendon niggle and knees pushing up hill!
  • Map and compass
  • Phone and powerpack (to take pictures and in case of an emergency)
  • First aid kit – (basic)
  • Gaiters – if its very wet out.

I am a member of the National Trust so most car parks are free also I get 20% off at Cotswold Outdoor and I also shop at Go Outdoors for some items. If you buy good equipment and look after it, it can last you for years!

A good source of guidance and advice for equipment for climbing and walking is the BMC guide via Cotswold Outdoor https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/the-knowledge/walking/five-steps-to-start-hillwalking.html

Enjoy my gallery…

The diving board Fan Y Big
Torpantau waterfall
Pen Y Fan and Corn Du from Fan Y Big
Taking a moment
Aircraft crash site
Cribyn from a chilly Pen Y Fan

Favourite walks

  • Brecon Horseshoe ridge walk A challenging upland mountain walk that takes you into the heart of the Brecon Beacons. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views if the weather is good.
  • Pen y Fan and Corn Du circular walk A strenuous mountain walk on well-made footpaths to the summit of Pen y Fan and Corn Du.
  • Cwm Llwch from Cwm Gwdi walk This is the hard way to the summit of southern Britain’s highest mountain, Pen y Fan. Starting at just over 1000ft (310m) above sea level, you have 1893ft (576m) of climbing before the reaching the top at 2908ft (886m).