Cold wonders

Winter’s nearly here. And while some might shudder at the thought of shorter days and colder weather, we reckon there’s plenty to look forward to…

Real fires

You arrive at the pub after a wet, windy day to be met by the welcoming warmth and light of a log fire. Grab a pint, sit down, warm up and enjoy.

Hot flasks

Dig out your Thermos! A hot drink on a cold mountainside is one of hillwalking’s great pleasures.

Down jackets

Very few items of outdoor-wear shout that the wearer is a person of the mountains so much as a down jacket. In summer you’ll look like a sweaty fool. In winter, you’ll look the business.

Silent hills

Snow deadens sound in the hills for a quieter, more muted atmosphere. And there’ll be fewer folk about too, which all adds to a more peaceful ambience.

Starry nights

Winter nights are often crisp and clear, giving you the perfect conditions in which to enjoy the night sky, particularly in remote mountain locations away from light pollution.

Sunrise and sunset

During the winter, sunrise and sunset occur at far more sociable times of day, and it’s entirely possible to see both during a day in the hills (page 10).