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Sunday 22/02/2026

Rescued Walkers Leave Unpaid Bill and Missing Equipment at Lake District Hotel

Two hikers rescued from Scafell Pike left unpaid bill
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Two walkers rescued from Scafell Pike left an unpaid £130 bill at Wasdale Head Inn and provided false contact details.
  • The Wasdale Mountain Rescue team, which saved the walkers, is missing two head torches lent to the men during the rescue.
  • The incident occurred on December 29, and despite promises, the walkers have not settled the bill or returned the equipment.
  • Public support has raised over £2,000 for the mountain rescue team, exceeding the amount needed to cover the hotel bill.
  • The Wasdale Head Inn and rescue team remain committed to assisting those in need despite this incident.

In a surprising turn of events, two walkers rescued from Scafell Pike, England's highest peak, have left an unpaid bill and missing equipment at the Wasdale Head Inn. The incident, which unfolded on December 29, has left the local community and the Wasdale Mountain Rescue team both disappointed and perplexed.

Rescue and Unpaid Bill

The Wasdale Mountain Rescue team, renowned for their volunteer efforts in the Lake District, responded to a call to save the two young men stranded in treacherous winter conditions. After a seven-hour operation, the walkers were safely brought down from the mountain, cold and hungry. The Wasdale Head Inn, located near the base of Scafell Pike, offered them a room at a discounted rate of £130, which remains unpaid. Nigel Burton, the inn's owner, expressed his disappointment, noting that the walkers also provided false contact information.

Missing Equipment and Community Response

In addition to the unpaid bill, the rescue team reported that two head torches lent to the walkers during the operation have not been returned. The team also holds a hospital crutch left behind by one of the walkers. Despite these setbacks, the community has shown overwhelming support, raising over £2,000 for the rescue team within 24 hours of the incident becoming public. This generosity will aid the team in covering operational costs, which exceed £100,000 annually.

Commitment to Service

Both the Wasdale Head Inn and the mountain rescue team have reiterated their commitment to assisting those in need, regardless of this incident. Burton emphasized that the inn remains open year-round to support climbers and walkers, while the rescue team continues to prioritize safety over judgment. "One bad incident like this isn't going to change our attitude," Burton stated, highlighting the inn's dedication to the community.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

Moving forward, the Wasdale Mountain Rescue team and the Wasdale Head Inn may consider implementing stricter protocols for assisting stranded walkers to prevent similar incidents. The public's generous response not only highlights the community's support for volunteer rescue efforts but also underscores the importance of maintaining trust and accountability. As the story gains attention, it could prompt discussions on the responsibilities of those receiving emergency aid and the ethical considerations involved in such rescues.

Images from the Web

Additional article image
Image Source: Wasdale Head Inn
Additional article image
Image Source: Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team