Lake District Walking Weekend: Scafell Pike & Borrowdale Bootcamp

The weekend is built around two full days of guided walking in the Borrowdale valley. Day one typically heads up one of the classic routes — perhaps Castle Crag for a gentler start, or straight for Great Gable if the group is up for it. Day two is usually the big one: Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain, from the Borrowdale side. Routes are chosen to suit the group's ability and the weather, but you should expect rough terrain, steep sections and a full day out.

Walking is led by the Motivate Bootcamp team, who run bootcamps and walking weekends across the UK. They're used to mixed-ability groups and keep a steady pace with plenty of stops to regroup. You'll need your own walking boots, waterproofs and a day pack — this is a proper mountain weekend, not a stroll.

The accommodation is YHA Borrowdale, a large hostel in Longthwaite. It has a lounge, dining room and self-catering kitchen, plus a restaurant open throughout the day. Rooms range from private to 4- and 6-bed dorms, all with fresh linen. There's also a camping field if you prefer. Evenings are free — most people head to a local pub for dinner, or cook together in the kitchen.

What sets this apart from a standard walking holiday is the crowd. Motivate Bootcamp attracts people who train regularly, so the pace is brisk and the chat is friendly. You'll likely be walking with a mix of solo travellers, couples and small groups. The weekend is as much about the company as the summits.

Getting there is easiest by car — the hostel is signposted from Keswick and has parking. If you're coming by public transport, the 78 bus runs from Keswick to Borrowdale, but check times as they're limited on weekends. The full address is YHA Borrowdale, Longthwaite, Borrowdale, Keswick, CA12 5XE.

What's included

- 2 nights' accommodation at YHA Borrowdale - Bed linen - Guided walks on both days - Group leader throughout the weekend - Use of self-catering kitchen and lounge - Parking

What's not included

- Meals and drinks - Transport to and from the Lake District - Personal walking gear (boots, waterproofs, etc.) - Travel insurance - Optional pub meals