Cumbria Way

Arrive in Ulverston

Arrive in the charming market town of Ulverston today, the official starting point of the Cumbria Way. Ahead of your first day of walking tomorrow, take some time to relax and perhaps head out to explore the cobbled streets and independent shops of this historic festival town. You might choose to take a stroll to the Sir John Barrow Monument at the top of Hoad Hill, which provides beautiful views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District fells. There are plenty of local inns and restaurants to choose from this evening, so enjoy a hearty meal and soak up the atmosphere before a good night’s sleep.

Meals Included: None

Ulverston to Coniston

This morning, your Cumbria Way journey begins. Lace up your boots for what is one of the longest, but most rewarding, days of the trail as you set out towards the village of Coniston. From Ulverston, the route ribbons through farmland, past fenced fields full of sheep and crosses frequent stiles and kissing gates. As the route enters the Lakes, the glittering sight of Coniston Water comes into view. One of England’s largest lakes, at 5 miles (8km) long, it remains home to the Arctic char – a rare fish and Ice Age relic that favours deep, cold water. Arrive in Coniston to find a skyline full of mountains and the adventure ahead.

This day can be split into 2 shorter walking days if desired, meaning an additional overnight in Lowick.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Walk Details: 27 km / 17 miles | 615 m / 2,018 ft | Approx: 9 hrs

Coniston to Great Langdale

After breakfast, a gentle ascent takes you out of Coniston and through low wooded hills up to Tarn Hows – a quintessential Lakeland beauty spot of still water, coniferous trees and distant mountain views. A gradual descent leads you to Skelwith Force waterfall, the route continuing along the banks of Elterwater, and into the tiny village itself – a useful and well-timed stop for refreshments. This afternoon, continue through the dramatic scenery of Great Langdale Valley, which provides a lovely contrast to the softer, more pastoral beauty of this morning. 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Walk Details: 18 km / 11 miles | 550 m / 1,804 ft | Approx: 7 hrs

Great Langdale to Keswick

Day four of the Cumbria Way begins with a moderately flat walk through the glacial valley of Mickleden before a steep ascent over Stake Pass. A relatively good path aids your efforts here, as you zigzag up the side of the fell. Upon reaching the pass, take a moment to appreciate the view of lofty peaks and the lush, green valley below. Take your time descending into Langstrath, where, if the weather is fine, you might spot locals bouldering on the rocks or swimming in the clear river pools. As the Borrowdale Valley opens up ahead, a walk along the wooded shores of Derwentwater takes you towards Keswick and your welcoming accommodation. 

This day can be split into 2 shorter walking days if desired, meaning an additional overnight in Borrowdale. 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Walk Details: 24 km / 15 miles | 650 m / 2,133 ft | Approx: 8 hrs

Keswick to Caldbeck

Leaving Keswick, the day begins with a steady climb towards the flank of Latrigg before the trail strikes out into the wild Glenderaterra Valley. After passing the remote Skiddaw House (the highest youth hostel in Britain), you’ll have the choice of the low-level or high-level route. The latter takes you up to High Pike, the highest point on the Cumbria Way at 658m (2157ft). Consider the weather conditions and choose your route wisely, as navigation on the high moors can be tricky. Whichever path you opt for, the open scenery is breathtaking, and you’ll enjoy a wonderful sense of space before descending into the old mill village of Caldbeck and your bed for the night. 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Walk Details: 23 km / 14 miles | 900 m / 2,953 ft | Approx: 8 hrs

Caldbeck to Carlisle

Just as the beginning of the Cumbria Way is defined by mostly gentle, undulating walking, so is the end of this long distance trail. Leaving the Lake District behind this morning, the route follows the River Caldew towards Carlisle. Pleasant walking along well-graded paths and cycleways takes you through woodland and past old farms. About halfway along today’s route, you reach the village of Dalston, providing a perfect opportunity to pause for well-earned refreshments. The scenery becomes more suburban as the city of Carlisle comes into view. The Market Cross, found in the centre, marks the official end of the Cumbria Way. If you like, you can pop into the Tourist Information Centre, located in the Old Town Hall opposite, to sign the Cumbria Way book and pick up a souvenir of your adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Walk Details: 25 km / 16 miles | 190 m / 623 ft | Approx: 8 hrs

Depart Carlisle

After breakfast, it is time to depart Carlisle for your onward journey. Whether you are heading home or staying to explore the city’s impressive castle and cathedral, enjoy the satisfaction of having reached the city on your own two feet through the heart of the Lake District and Cumbrian countryside.

Meals Included: Breakfast