Doing the Wainwrights

by Steve Larkin

What on earth is a sixty-three year old man with a recent history of heart disease and cancer together with a marked tendency to wimpishness doing out on the Lake District fells alone in all seasons of the year? attempting to climb the 214 fells over 1,000 feet as described by Alfred Wainwright in his Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells and to do so within twelve months, raising money for charity in the process. "Doing The Wainwrights" offers a personal account of the author's experiences in tackling this challenge - the highs and lows, the triumphs and the cock-ups, the heart-stopping moments, the sheer fatigue and the breath-taking beauty of it all. It is a challenge which takes him not only to every corner of the Lake District, but also on a journey of self-discovery as he learns to confront his demons (or not, as the case may be) and to come to terms with his limitations. Starting in the spring of 2005, the book gives a snapshot of one year in the Lake District, charting Steve's progress against a backdrop of changing seasons. While not a how-to manual, it does illustrate the point that just about anybody can aspire to do the Wainwrights. An appendix gives a description of all routes taken, together with total time, distance and ascent, so those readers who wish to can try out some ready-made excursions. As we celebrate the centenary of Wainwright's birth, "Doing The Wainwrights" testifies to his enduring legacy. The book will be enjoyed by the thousands who walk in Cumbria every year and also by those who prefer to imagine themselves atop Scafell Pike whilst supping a hot mug of cocoa in front of a roaring fire!

184 pages, Paperback

First published November 22, 2007

Reviews

[Greta · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is another book I really wanted to read for I haven't been in the Lake District yet but doing some of the fells there is my summer goal :) alas, it wasn't that good. Actually, I was ready to give two stars but in the end I felt happy for Steve. Or maybe I was happy for myself as it meant the end of the book? Either way, it earns an extra star as it was the only time I really stirred some emotions in me.

Steve is a really admirable guy whom I'd be glad to know in person. Moreover, he's done the Wainwrights in his 60s and after cardiac problems and prostate cancer surgery. It's all within a year but I'm super jealous of his determination and what's more, he did some fundraising which is cool even if the effectiveness can be disputed. Tho, it's not the topic of the book so I'll leave my rants to myself.

So why such a low rating? The writing was lacking, I couldn't feel the beauty of the Lakes. I haven't read many hiking/traveling literature but I do want to believe that there's a way to talk about it. Even if there is no way or it's not the focus then I hope to read the exploration of the emotional aspects of hiking besides merely mentioning pain and doubts. What were you thinking? how the pain felt? how did you handle it with other responsibilities of work, family? He mentioned that sometimes he would go to the gym, what were you working on? I'm a curious person I guess.

Anyway, I hope he's ok. He should be in his 70s now!

[Julie Groves · Rating 2 out of 5]

A rather disappointing read. A fairly straightforward account of hiking all of Wainwright's 214 fells. Not much drama or poetry given the romance of the area. I didn't get much of a sense of the author or the Lake District. Could have been much better.