Discovery Travel
Your UK Walking Holiday Specialist

Cumbria Way

A journey through the Lake District from Ulverston to Carlisle

Highlights

  • Coniston Old Man and Coniston Water
  • The impressive glacier-formed valley of Langdale
  • Dramatic views across the Lake District National Park
  • Idyllic valley of Borrowdale which runs for ten miles
  • Derwent Water and the bustling town of Keswick
  • Carlisle, with its museums and castle

The Cumbria Way is an opportunity to soak up the beauty of the Lake District on a journey from south to north.


This linear walk starts at Ulverston on Morecombe Bay and works its way north past Coniston Water and into the heart of the Lakes, before crossing the flanks of Skiddaw into rolling farmland as you approach the historic city of Carlisle.

Created by the local Ramblers Association in the 1970s, the Cumbria Way is a relatively low level route through the Lake District, following the valley floors of Langdale and Borrowdale as it traverses the middle of the national park. It is not completely without higher level sections, with higher ground over Stake Pass, Skiddaw and High Pike to negotiate.

Views from the walk are stunning and take in some of the most iconic scenery of the Lakes including The Old Man of Coniston, the Langdale Pikes, Derwent Water and Skiddaw. The walk has plenty to offer both the experienced walker and those new to Lakeland walking.

  • Distance:
    73 miles / 117 km
  • Available:
    March - October
Cumbria Way - Whole Trail Itineraries
Please note: due to the major road project being undertaken near Carlisle, the Carlisle Southern Link Road, our Cumbria Way walking holidays will terminate at the village of Dalston during 2025. The final walking day will involve walking from Caldbeck to Dalston (10 miles), from where you can either take the train or we will arrange a taxi to take you into Carlisle for your final night.
6 nights / 5 days walking £810 per person, based upon 2 sharing Info
7 nights / 6 days walking £945 per person, based upon 2 sharing Info
Can’t find an itinerary that’s right for you? At Discovery Travel we will always endeavour to devise itineraries that precisely meet customers' needs, including for large groups.