Black Girls Hike: Lake District Country Manor Retreat , 3 Nights Full Board, Friday 19th – Monday 22nd August

Join us for a weekend of sisterhood and guided walks as we explore the South Lakes. We’ve hired out Monk Coniston, a beautiful country manor once owned by Beatrix Potter which sits on a National Trust Nature Trail. Surrounded by the fells, the manor has an extensive garden, lounge, bar and a stunning view of Lake Coniston. Coniston village is about one mile away. You can climb famous summits including Bow Fell, the Langdale Pikes and the Old Man of Coniston. Or explore the beautiful valleys and stroll picturesque lakeside paths, there will be something for all levels led by experienced guides.

We have sole occupancy of the manor, its full board accommodation, starting with afternoon tea/coffee on arrival, finishing with breakfast on the Monday. Packed lunches will be provided for Saturday and Sunday. Food at Monk Coniston is varied with a strong emphasis on the use of seasonal British produce. Their experienced chefs create each dish using only the freshest ingredients and, when in season, use home grown herbs and vegetables taken from their own gardens to give a true taste of the local area.

Arriving from 4pm on Friday 19th August there will be tea/coffee on arrival, a welcome from the hosts, dinner and a chance to explore the grounds. On Saturday and Sunday, we’ll be exploring the fells. A full detailed itinerary will be provided on arrival.

All rooms are en-suite and furnished to a high standard with tea & coffee-making facilities, TV, Hairdryer, Toiletries and Wi-Fi.

• £350 Twin Room *(You will be sharing with 1 other person)
• £400 Single Room (Sole Occupancy)
• £450 Double Room (Sole Occupancy)
• £650 Double Room (Couple)

Please read before signing up

Age: 18+

Can I come to Black Girls Hike? As the name suggests, this is a safe space for Black/Mixed Race cis and trans women and non-binary people of Black African and / or Caribbean descent who are comfortable in a space that centres the experiences of Black women. We are not a BAME, POC, BIPOC, WOC, Politically Black or Ally organisation.

What do I need to bring?

“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong type of clothing!” goes the adage. Come prepared for all eventualities and you’ll walk in comfort as well as safety. Britain’s famous for its changeable weather, so here’s our advice on what to wear and bring.

Essentials

• Waterproof walking boots providing ankle support and good grip.

• Waterproof jacket and over-trousers

• Gloves and a warm hat (it can be chilly at any time of the year)

• Rucksack

• Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)

• Sun hat and sunscreen.

*Denim jeans and waterproof capes are not suitable on any walks.

Recommended

• Several layers of clothing, which can be added or removed

• Specialist walking socks to avoid blisters.

• A first aid kit inc plasters– your leader’s first aid kit doesn’t contain any medication

• Sit mat (insulated pad to sit on when you stop for a break)

You might also want

• Walking poles, particularly useful for descents.

• Flask for hot drinks

• Blister kit (e.g. Compeed) just in case

• Waterproof rucksack liner

Do you provide transport?

No, you will need to make your own way there.

• We have a WhatsApp group set up so attendees can plan their journeys together. The link for this will be in the order confirmation email.

• You can also join our Facebook group to connect with other members – https://www.facebook.com/groups/bghuk

By Train:

The nearest railway station to Monk Coniston is at Windermere. However, the nearest mainline station is Oxenholme which may be more convenient. For train times and route planning by train visit www.nationalrail.co.uk or phone 03457 48 49 50.

By Bus:

From Windermere station you can catch the 505 bus direct to Monk Coniston – the bus stop is right outside the country house. The journey time is around 50 minutes. For bus times see www.traveline.info

By car:

From Ambleside take the A593 signposted to Coniston. Turn sharp left over a narrow bridge, then after half a mile turn left onto the B5286, signposted to Hawkshead. About 3 miles along this road, and just before Hawkshead, turn right onto the B5285, signposted to Coniston. Follow this road over Hawkshead Hill. The road descends then goes around a 180° bend to the left. The entrance to Monk Coniston is on the left about 100yds after the bend. There is car parking available within the grounds.

COVID-19 Compliance

As we’ll be staying in shared accommodation / close proximity, to make sure all our guests feel comfortable, we are asking that all guests confirm their COVID status by taking a Lateral Flow Test on arrival if they can’t provide an NHS COVID Pass via the NHS App, showing:

• You’ve had both doses of the vaccine

• A Negative PCR or Lateral Flow Test from that has been taken in the last 48 hours

• Proof of natural immunity

*If you are unable to attend due to COVID, you’ll be issued with a full refund, which will require proof*