Providing weather reports and skills courses for the Lake District fell tops
Each winter, typically from December to March, the Fell Top Assessors walk up Helvellyn every day to check conditions, take photos, and provide weather reports that contribute to the Met Office weather forecast, which is available 365 days a year.
These reports are available every day on the Weatherline website giving detailed information from conditions they find each day and what to expect on the hills for the following days. This includes information on snow distribution, path conditions and what equipment is recommended.
The team of Fell Top Assessors for 2025 includes Paddy Cave, Zac Poulton, and Jim Evans.
Individuals can join the Fell Top Assessors for a day on a winter skills course to learn the basics of using an ice axe and crampons for safe winter walking in the fells and mountains of the UK.
You'll spend a day on Helvellyn with a Lake District National Park Authority Fell Top Assessor as they climb to the summit of the mountain to take snow and weather readings for Lake District Weatherline Service. A Fell Top Assessor will guide you on a route up the mountain, chosen according to snow and weather conditions and the ability of the group members.
Our waterproof backpacks help support the Fell Top Assessors as they work through all types of winter weather, day in and day out throughout the winter season. With the unpredictable and often harsh weather conditions of the Lake District winters, where heavy rain and high winds are frequent, having durable gear is crucial for their work.
To find out more about the Fell Top Assessors click HERE.
