Alfred Wainwright: The Man Behind the Fells.

Alfred Wainwright (1907–1991) is a legendary figure in British hiking and outdoor literature. Born in Blackburn, Lancashire, Wainwright developed a deep love for the Lake District after visiting the area on a walking holiday in 1930. This passion inspired his life’s work: meticulously documenting the region’s fells through his iconic series of guidebooks.

Wainwright is most famous for his seven-volume series, A Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, published between 1955 and 1966. These hand-drawn books detail 214 fells across the Lake District, blending intricate maps, hand-written notes, and pen-and-ink illustrations. His unique style set his guides apart, offering not just practical advice but a personal connection to the landscapes. Wainwright’s guides remain beloved for their attention to detail, charm, and reverence for the natural world.

Climbers are drawn to “Wainwrights” for various reasons. For some, it is the challenge of summiting all 214 fells, a pursuit known as “bagging Wainwrights.” For others, it is the sense of stepping into Wainwright’s footsteps, following his paths to discover the same awe-inspiring views he so vividly described. Many find solace in the quiet beauty of these fells, a lasting tribute to Wainwright’s love for the outdoors.

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Below is the list of Wainwrights, those with a green background are the ones I have completed since 2024.

Use the textbox to search via Name, Fell Location and OS Explorer map.