The Lake District
Not as reliable as Scotland for solid winter conditions, but more reliable than Wales (due to the latter being further south and closer to the sea), the Lake District is closer than Scotland for most people in the UK, and possible to do in a single day for some. If Scotland’s conditions can be ephemeral, then the Lakes’ can be non-existent, but most years there is some snow covering and some years have amazing conditions. Disregard the Lakes at your peril, as the region presents a mixture of winter adventure. Long non-technical winter walks like the Fairfield Horseshoe, through to high mountain technical ridges such as Striding Edge, present a winter playground for all abilities. And there is usually a great pub at the end!
First steps:
The traverse of Blencathra – a favourite quick-hit winter route for many and the most alpinelike mountain in the Lakes when in her winter coat. With precipitous long ridges on the south and the seriousness of Sharp Edge, this mountain is a gem. You don’t have to climb to experience this though. A simple walk west to east (or vice versa) over the summit or up one of the easier ridges on the south, such as Doddick Fell, presents a fabulous winter day out.
More adventurous:
The Helvellyn Horseshoe. Starting at Glenridding or Patterdale venture up onto the fells and reach the summit via the precipitous knife-edge Striding Edge. From here you’ll ascend a steep icy slope to gain the summit of Helvellyn. The third highest summit in England provides 360° views. Return is via Swirral Edge which is another fine ridge, and for bonus points bag the conical shaped Catstye Cam for a proper winter mountain day out.
Don’t miss:
Sharp Edge – not for the faint-hearted or inexperienced but at Grade 1 this ridge still feels like proper winter climbing, especially if you descend down Hall’s Fell Ridge.
Why not:
You can actually ski here! Yes, you’ll need good conditions, but Raise actually has a ski tow! I’ll never forget being on the summit of Catstye Cam after a long day out on the winter fells with a 1hr+ walk back, and watching a guy ski past me down to the YHA at Glenridding in 5 minutes.