I absolutely love the Lake District. For years, it has been our family’s second home, where we spend most weekends soaking in the rugged landscapes and breathtaking beauty of England’s largest and most visited National Park.
But what does one actually do on a visit to the Lake District? Well, that’s easy—we walk, and we go to the pub. I challenge you to find anyone who disagrees that these two activities go hand in hand in Cumbria!
Whenever I invite friends to join us, the most common question they ask is: “What should I wear?”
The answer? All-weather casual clothing suitable for both the great outdoors and cosy indoor settings. You’ll want to be well-presented, as there are Michelin-starred restaurants and stylish bars to visit, but you also don’t want to look overdressed or like you’ve tried too hard.
It’s an impossible brief.
What can you pack for an overnight stay that will take you from hiking up Scafell Pike to drinks in the pub, followed by a fine dining experience in Cartmel? Clothing is relatively easy—just roll up a dress, some walking gear, and a jacket. But when it comes to footwear, I used to find myself packing four pairs, taking up valuable space in my small bag.
Luckily, I’ve found the perfect solution!
For the past few months, I’ve been wearing the Hey Dude Women’s Branson Boot in Black, and they’ve quickly become my go-to shoes for the Lakes. Rain or shine, mud or dry trails, they’ve held up remarkably well, and I’ve had so much wear out of them.
The Branson Boots boast a sleek, stylish design. They have a classic Chelsea boot silhouette—timeless yet on-trend. The black is subtle yet chic, making them versatile enough to pair with practically anything. They also come in a tan-brown option, which is equally stylish. The smooth, minimalist design, combined with elastic side panels and a pull tab, makes them incredibly easy to slip on and off—ideal for someone like me who’s always in a rush to get out the door and start a hike.
Made with a breathable canvas upper, these boots are lightweight yet sturdy—perfect for long walks and hikes, especially across the uneven and sometimes muddy terrain of the Lake District. The fabric is also incredibly easy to wipe clean. After a rainy walk or a muddy trail, a quick wipe-down has them looking as good as new. Plus, they’re surprisingly comfortable, thanks to the cushioned insole. Even on longer hikes, my feet never feel sore, and I’ve had no issues with blisters or rubbing.
Another standout feature is the sole’s excellent traction, which is essential when walking on wet or rocky paths. Even in heavier rain, I feel secure in them. They’ve endured the elements beautifully, and I’m confident they’ll last for many seasons to come.
What I love most about these boots is their versatility. Not only are they practical for hiking, but they also look great for a night out or a casual outing. After a long walk, I’ve styled them with everything from maxi dresses to jeans for a trip to the pub or a relaxed dinner with friends. The fact that they’re so easy to clean while still looking effortlessly stylish is a huge bonus.
All in all, the Hey Dude Branson Boots have been a fantastic investment. Whether I’m heading out for a walk in the hills or meeting friends at the pub, they offer the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and style.
HEYDUDE offers a wide range of footwear for men, women and kids and they all have the same things in common, style, perfectly combined with comfort. I cannot say fairer than that!
Words by Joanne Brook-Smith