Absolutely essentialNovember 7, 2008 1 out of 1 found this review helpful
This series of books may well be on the expensive side but they are an essential purchase for anyone that enjoys walking in the Lakeland Fells.The Wainright's are rightly regarded as the pinnacle of books of their type and it is easy to see why.Beautifully illustrated by the author and with several different routes described for the many fells covered,this is by far the best set of books I have seen on the subject. Some of the routes are a little out of date now but that doesn't really matter as you can still find your way round.Also,the seven books in the series are a very handy size for you to carry in your ruck sack or even your pocket. If you aren't sure if you should spend this amount of money on this set the best thing that I can advise is that you do splash out.It really is worth it and you will consider it as money well spent.
Bargain PriceDecember 3, 2007 13 out of 13 found this review helpful
This is a brilliant boxed set, i managed to get this for under 45 which is incredible given the books individually are priced at 13 each !!
The attention to detail in these books are second to none - buy it now before the price goes back up !!
Brilliant - but you have a choiceAugust 28, 2007 58 out of 58 found this review helpful
These books are truly a Lakeland Companion. In the pages the author not only sets out the details of the fells (with scrupulous accuracy) but shares himself. And this is not in an intrusive way; indeed it is rare insight into the thinking of a middle-aged man of 40 plus years ago.
As guide books the series is second to none. They are brilliantly designed for use on the fells (in wind or rain they are so much easier than a map). They also are great pre and post holiday reading; as valuable for reminiscing as planning.
There is a weakness. They are out of date! Some of the changes do not matter a jot (everyone knows that the railway to Keswick is no more) but some could be significant - for example some paths have been re-routed and others have suffered erosion. Before buying consider whether the second edition (with revisions by Chris Jesty) is more appropriate for your needs.
A unique set of guidebooks for walkers.July 29, 2007 31 out of 31 found this review helpful
Wainwright's legacy to the fell walkers of the Lake District will be as popular in a hundred years from now as it is today, a decade after his demise. These seven wonderful books began in the 1950's as a labour of love which would take up most of Wainwright's leisure time over a period of over 12 years. He embarked on this venture without a thought of making a profit; the idea was simply to provide meticulous advice and information for walkers, set out in his own unique style. His attention to detail and gentle humour have reassured and entertained generations of walkers visiting this hallowed corner of our beautiful earth. Similarly people who are not fit enough to visit the highest mountains can relive past adventures by their own fireside on a cold winter's evening. So, my friend, feel inspired, splash out a little on these wonderful guidebooks, get out on the hills, and, as the great Wainwright himself said, watch where you are putting your feet. Your life will never be quite the same again.
