OS Champion

Sarah Curran

Meet Sarah Curran, a passionate hiker that has not let injury stop her getting outside regularly

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

I injured my left ankle in 2015 whilst serving in the RAF which resulted in me being medically discharged from service. Despite numerous surgeries and intensive rehabilitation, I was left with chronic pain and use a crutch to get about. Before my injury I was a keen runner, and being told I would never run again really hit me hard. My parents encouraged me to join them on a hike up Loughrigg Fell in the Lake District in January 2017 and I realised that despite my injury I could still be active in the outdoors. My love for the Lake District and its fells only grew from there, having already been visiting yearly since I was a child.

I have completed all 214 Wainwrights (twice, and currently on my third round!). I have also hiked marathons, ultra-marathons, and the Cumbria Way. All on my crutch. I made the move up to the Lakes in 2021 and am lucky enough to live in my favourite place, Keswick. My disability has led to me finding my greatest passion and realising just how strong I am, and I am constantly looking at new ways to challenge myself. I hope to inspire others to push their boundaries too.

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A post shared by Sarah Ann Curran | Disabled Hiker (@sarahmakingmemories)

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

Sarah Curran’s Favourite Hiking Route – Coledale Horseshoe

The Coledale Horseshoe is my all-time favourite hike in the Lake District. The most commonly used route starts just above the village of Braithwaite and takes in Grisedale Pike, Hopegill Head, Crag Hill, Sail, Scar Crags, Causey Pike, Outerside and Barrow, but I love that there are options to shorten or extend as you wish with Grasmoor being a popular addition. It is a big day out with outstanding views in such a great area of the Lake District. Add it to your hiking wishlist now!

Sarah Curran's Favourite Route – Coledale Horseshoe

You can find this route on the OS Map OL4

Looking for more Lake District Walks?

Take a look at this article – 8 of The Best Lake District Walks

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

Bridgedale have been my go-to hiking socks for years now. They have been making socks since World War One when they produced for the army, and now offer over 500 products! Their socks are activity specific, super comfortable and highly durable. Try them and I promise you won’t regret it.