SOUTH Lakeland is set to feature in a long-distance walking book celebrating the spirit-making heritage of the area.

Two women, who had never previously met, have created a new long distance footpath around Cumbria starting in Ulverston and culminating in Whitehaven.

Acclaimed local author Beth Pipe, of Grange-over-Sands, and Karen Guttridge, who is from Manchester but now lives in Cyprus, had only known each other through social media before they set off on their two week adventure visiting the finest distillers in the region, plus the occasional brewery.

From Shed 1 in Ulverston they travelled all the way around the county via Cartmel, Kendal, Bowness and Keswick to finish their journey at The Rum Story in Whitehaven.

Along their journey they braved bad weather, hangovers, heavy rucksacks and a motorised sheep all in the name of celebrating the very best spirits, liqueurs and cakes that the county has to offer. They also ate more than their fair share of cake.

The book follows their journey from their first ever meeting on day one of their hike and charts their relationship over the two challenging weeks as they get to know one another in the real world as opposed to the virtual one.

It also uncovers the fascinating stories behind many of the outstanding gins, vodkas and other liqueurs they encounter as well as delving into the ecological importance of juniper and the history of alcohol production in the area.

“For me it was a mad idea that occurred to me on one of our hikes turned into reality” says Beth “It’s not just about the alcohol, it’s also about the spectacular scenery and the wonderful people we met along the way – some of whom have now turned into firm friends.

“I wasn’t too sure what to expect when I agreed to do this” said Karen “Travelling to Cumbria to spend two weeks hiking with a virtual stranger was a big gamble, and we had a lot of highs and lows along the journey, but it was a fantastic experience.”

Mindful of the fact that not everyone would be up for a long distance hike, the book also includes the bus, train, bike and car routes for those who prefer to tour the region a little more sedately.

“We were delighted that so many producers were keen to get involved in the project when it was little more than a crazy idea” added Beth “And we will be forever grateful to everyone who supported us along the way and made this journey possible.”

The book will be launched at The Moon, Highgate, Kendal, at 3pm on October 4, and there will be an opportunity to meet Beth and some local distillers.