A novel which extols the benefits and pleasures, both mental and physical, of walking in the great outdoors for people of all ages. From short, flat strolls to strenuous climbs to the highest summits, how group interactions form character and change lives in the iconic setting of the English Lake District.

Biology teacher Miss Lily and history teacher Mr Granger are determined to drag six of their sixth-formers out into the fells and lakes of the iconic English Lake District. The students are vivacious Mel whose passion is literature; farmer’s son Alfred who loves biology; somewhat fragile Natalie who detests injustice; boastful Brad who lacks a father figure; nerdish Jack who plays the jester; and tech-savvy Aisha, a refugee from Somalia. Gradually, Lily and Granger entice the students away from their addictive screens and into the outdoors, starting off with a gentle stroll around Derwent Water, and then moving onwards and upwards to longer walks and then climbs, all the way up to Scafel Pike.

The book is an intimate, boots-on-the-ground, adventure story that deals with the nitty-gritty details of fell-walking and the feeling of what it is like to walk in the Lakes. Characters, actions, and places are closely connected with each other. The book is also a travel guide to the Lakes; a story of developing friendships; and an encouragement to everyone to leave their sheltered lives, take risks, and explore. It is a Swallows and Amazons story for our time and readers of all ages