Cumbrian Way

map The Cumbrian Way follows old packhorse tracks and trails through valleys and over passes and is a primarily low-level long distance (112 km) footpath but it does contain some high-level exposed sections. (The majority of the route is inside the boundaries of the Lake District National Park). En route there are wonderful dramatic views of the mountains and surrounding area. The walk begins at Ulverston heading towards the hills across expansive farmland and as the walk progresses the views become more and more breathtaking. It passes along the shores of Lake Coniston below the craggy slopes of 'The Old Man' and visiting a couple of famous beauty spots on the way: Tarn Hows and the thunderous cascades of Slelwith Force. The walk then proceeds of the Langdale valley reaching Elterwater with commanding views of the valley to the majestic peaks of the Langdale Pikes.

At the end of this valley, the route crosses Stake Pass before dropping down through the remote valley of Langstrath to the quaint old village of Rosthwaite in the Borrowdale valley. From here onwards, the Cumbrian Way follows paths through woodlands and along the side of rivers through the valley to Derwentwater and from there it follows the lake shore to the old market town of Keswick.

Finally the Cumbrian Way meanders passing through the remote rolling hills at the 'Back O' Skiddaw' until it gets to the attractive small village of Caldbeck from whence it want to gain follows riverside paths through farmland finally reaching the historic border city of Carlisle.