Join Bike Hike & Paddle Ltd—an AALA (Adventure Activities Licence Authority) & D of E Approved Activity Provider (AAP)—for a Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award Open Walking Training & Practice Expedition in the heart of the Lake District.

Conquer rugged fells, navigate iconic valleys and achieve your Gold D of E! Designed for individuals, school groups and open participants, this 4 day mountain experience challenges, educates and inspires young adventurers while fulfilling DofE Gold Qualifying requirements.

What to Expect

Day 1 - Team Building & Navigation: The two key focus points of today are to build a team and focus on navigation skills - a relatively shorter walk, with only a small amount of kit.
Day 2 – Training & Prep: We cover the remaining parts of the D of E Expedition training syllabus, gear checks, safety briefings. Finally your team will lead the final route planning with guidance from our qualified mountain leaders. It is a busy day.
From evening meal on day 2 to day 4 – The Practice Expedition: Self sufficient navigation across mountain, valley and lakeside terrains using maps and compasses, establishing a fresh camp each night.
Feedback & Debrief: Daily reflections on the journey, personal feedback and official DofE sign off - ready for you to upload to your eDofE account.

Preparation & Fitness

To get the most out of your expedition, you should have a good baseline fitness level and be comfortable carrying a fully loaded 65L rucksack over steep, uneven mountain terrain for 6 to 8 hours a day. We recommend completing practice walks with a weighted backpack ahead of the trip.

Logistics & Location

Start: Sat 31 July 2027 at 10:30 (Keswick area)
Finish: Tues 3 August 2027 at approximately 16:00 ish (Keswick area)
Travel / Public Transport: The nearest main railway station is Penrith. There is a direct, regular bus link from Penrith station straight into Keswick. If driving - please arrange suitable parking for the week.
Joining Pack: Comprehensive arrival instructions, route outlines and final kit checklist are sent approx 4 weeks in advance.

Food & Equipment Notes

Provided Gear: Tents, stoves, fuel, emergency equipment, map & compass
Food Expectations: Participants must supply their own expedition food and snacks for all 4 days.
Lunch Note: No stoves are used during lunch breaks. Please pack quick, cold or non cook options for lunchtimes while out on the trail (stoves are for morning and evening campsite meals only).