Lake District in Summer. A Mountain Leaders Guide to Cumbrian Flora

For lots of trainee mountain leaders there is a whole host of things you need to learn.  I, for example, have a very poor retention of types of birds (ornithology).  The fact that my ML trainer pointed out the buzzard I had spotted was a crow is testament to my last statement.  So to make up for a lack of knowledge in one area I thrust myself into studying the flowers, moss and lichen of the UK.  The Lake District is home to a wide variety of plant species and if you’re keen to educate yourself too then here is my handy guide to a few of the wild flowers you might see on your walk through the Lakes.  Whilst this doesn’t form a definitive list I hope it helps you to begin identifying and appreciating the abundance of flora next time you visit.

P.S.  If you don’t know, don’t be afraid to ask!  I had no idea on a number of these but with a little research using my trusty Collins Wildflowers book and my new friends at the Cumbria Botany Group on Facebook even I am learning more.  Now where’s that buzzard gone to?