Alton Ramblers Enjoy a Successful Lake District
Walking Week with French Friends
On Monday 22 June 2026, eleven members of Alton Ramblers welcomed one Bromley Rambler and thirteen walkers from Les Mille Pattes, the walking group from Alton’s twin town Pertuis in France, for a memorable week of walking in the Lake District.
The visit continued the close and much-valued relationship between the two walking groups, first encouraged through the town twinning initiative. Over the past ten years or so, members have enjoyed regular walking visits in both France and the UK, building friendships through a shared love of the countryside, good company and time spent outdoors.
This year’s base was Derwent Bank Hotel in Keswick, Cumbria, ideally placed for exploring some of the Lake District’s finest scenery. A full programme of walks was arranged and led by Patrick Giles, Chairman of Alton Ramblers, and Paul Naish, Footpath Secretary, offering routes to suit different interests and abilities.
Tuesday 23 June
The first full day offered a choice of walks. One group took on the rewarding route over Cat Bells, Maiden Moor and High Spy, covering 14.5km with a total ascent of 653m. Another group enjoyed the gentler but equally scenic route through Elterwater, Skelwith Force and Slater’s Bridge, covering 12.8km.
Wednesday 24 June
Wednesday brought another varied day on the fells and paths. The more challenging option was Haystacks, a 7.5km walk with a total ascent of 890m including a visit to the Honister Slate mine, while others walked from Ambleside to Grasmere along the “Coffin Trail” via Rydal Mount and Dove Cottage, a 10km route rich in landscape and literary associations.
Thursday 25 June
On Thursday, walkers enjoyed Applethwaite and Latrigg, a 12.5km route with a total ascent of 300m. The walk provided fine views and a relaxed opportunity for a visit to Keswick Town market, shops and the Pencil Museum before returning to the hotel.
Throughout the week, the friendly atmosphere between the groups was every bit as important as the walking itself. The shared routes, meals and conversations helped strengthen the bond between Alton Ramblers and Les Mille Pattes, demonstrating once again how walking can bring people together across communities and countries.
The Lake District week was a great success, enjoyed by all who took part. Alton Ramblers look forward to continuing this special friendship and to many more opportunities to walk together in the future.
For a full set of photos, you can view the gallery here.
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