OS Champion

Ian Morris

Meet Ian Morris – Keen hiker, scrambler and wild camper based in Cheshire

Tell us a bit about yourself and how you like to get outside?

I work a very sedentary job, so come the weekends (or evenings when it’s still light) I’m raring to get outside. Without a doubt my favourite activity is hiking, preferably leaving first thing in the morning, taking everything I need and getting back early evening. There’s nothing better than being away from the busyness for the full day.

I also love wild camping. I’d take a sunset, poor night’s sleep and sunrise on a mountain, over a 5-star hotel any day. Weather permitting, scrambling is also up there as one of the most exciting activities in the outdoors, and something I really need to do more of, with starting outdoor climbing being a goal for 2024! I’d love to say water activities are also high up on my list, and while I do enjoy them, it has to be a warm day for me to get in, so not a regular occurrence in the UK!

What’s your favourite route or place to go and why?

Ian Morris’ Favourite Lake District Route -The Langdale Pikes

The Lake District as a whole is my favourite place to go, I always feel at home there! But more specifically, my favourite route is around the Langdale Pikes. The route, even though it’s not too big at just over 8 miles and 3500ft ascent, puts 8 Wainwrights in the bag, all with their own unique character. Weather and ability permitting, the best way up is without a doubt the scramble up Jack’s Rake! But whichever way you go, you’ll end up with some awesome views in all directions around the Lakes. If that’s not quite enough, and if it’s a rare occasion when the suns out, Stickle Tarn or the waterfalls down Stickle Ghyll provide a perfect opportunity to cool down before the finish!

Ian's Favourite Route – The Langdale Pikes

Epic Lake District Walks

Looking for some epic Lake District Walks? Here are 8 of the best – 8 Epic Lake District Walks

What’s your fave bit of kit available on the OS Shop?

It’s got to be a backpack – wherever you’re hiking, whatever the forecast, whether you know the route or not and however far you’re going, you’ll likely have one on your back! And when it comes to backpacks, it’s very hard to compete with Osprey. And when it comes to Osprey backpacks, why look further than their headliner model, the Talon. Although the Talon comes in a range of volumes, the 22L is perfect for both short and long days out, likely being suitable for most of the year! Plus, how else are you going to carry your snacks?

Interested in becoming a hiker? Read our Hiking For Beginners Guide