Incoming: Ullswater Outdoors Festival

A quick heads up on the Ullswater Outdoor Festival 2009 which takes place in the Lakes between Saturday 26 September and Sunday 4 October with more than 50 free guided walks on offer from scenic low level strolls through to proper mountain stuff on the surrounding peaks.


It's not just walking though, there are also family steamer rides, mountain biking opportunities and kayaking to mix things up a bit. And on top of that, main sponsors Sprayway are going to be there with a range of brand new clothing available for festival goers to test on the hill.

You'll also be able to buy the test clothing from local outdoor shope Catstycam  in Glenridding, fill in a feedback form to help improve future Sprayway kit and even chat with top Sprayway designers on the walks.

Speaking of which, there are loads of options to choose from, including kayak journeys on Ullswater itself and high and low level outings in the hills, including some of the less obvious peaks, you can even go canoe orienteering or take in an all-day canoe demonstration on the Sunday.

It's a good idea to pre-book some of the activites. All the walks are free, but you may have to pay for a bus journey or to use the Ullswater Steamer service for just £1.

You can find full details of the festival in downloadable PDF format along with booking information  and local background at www.ullswater.com/outdoorfestival