HERE is the weekly column from Andrew Thomas.

The Lake District is sometimes promoted as the ‘Adventure capital of the UK’ and there are certainly lots of activities, such as climbing, kayaking and ghyll scrambling, to cater for outdoor enthusiasts.

But walking is still one of the most popular pastimes as it gives people the opportunity to get into the heart of the landscape and get great views of the fells and lakes.

On a walk up Grisedale Pike last weekend I was surprised by how many people were trekking up the same fellside route fairly early in the morning.

It transpired this was one of the routes being taken by some of the hundreds of runners and walkers who took part in Great Lakeland 3Day event, which included different courses for those with varying levels of experience.

The participants, some of whom had travelled from far and wide, then departed from our route so by the time we reached Hopegill Head further west we pretty much had the fells to ourselves.

Talking of stunning walks, the Guide Over Sands Trust Morecambe Bay walks have recently returned, with guide Michael Wilson leading parties between Arnside and Grange.

This year Mr Wilson has planned 19 walks with more than 39 charities so the physical effort is also raising cash for good causes.

Meanwhile, it’s May and that means many of our woodland walks feature blue blankets of bluebells. There are some great spreads of bluebells in woods near Skelwith Bridge and also in woodland on the Sizergh estate south of Kendal - but you probably have your own favourite spots to see them.

And, also on the walking theme, Kendal Walking Festival takes place this coming weekend (Friday, May 6 - Monday, May 9).

As Kendal was home to Britain’s most famous walks writer Alfred Wainwright (AW), the 2022 Festival will feature a number of walks which will give people opportunities to bag a few of the 'Wainwrights'.

There is also 'An Evening with Alfred Wainwright', during which people can learn more about the man himself.

In addition, the festival includes several historical walks around the town.

For more information go to https://www.kendalwalkingfestival.co.uk/home.