Cumbria Way – accommodation, stages and guide
- Christian Sommer
- Nov 25
- 15 min read
The Cumbria Way is a wild long-distance hiking trail through the heart of England's Lake District: it crosses the Lake District National Park in Cumbria from Ulverston to Carlisle and delights with quiet valleys, sparkling lakes, rolling hills and the rugged charm of northern English countryside. You will hike – mostly at moderate altitudes, but sometimes also over higher passes – through ancient forests, historic towns such as Keswick and past stone farmhouses, sheep pastures and moorland.
Content
1. Journey
2. Route
3. Accommodation
4. Weather and best time to travel
5. Further information
6. Recommended stages
7. Packing list
8. GPX and map information
9. Conclusion
Cumbria Way
The Cumbria Way stretches for around 118 kilometres through the breathtaking Lake District in north-west England. The trail is rated as moderate in difficulty, and it usually takes 5-6 days to hike the entire route. The path takes you from the coastal town of Ulverston to the historic city of Carlisle. Despite its beauty, the Cumbria Way remains pleasantly quiet and offers numerous charming accommodations and typical English pubs along the way.
Info: The Cumbria Way was developed in the 1970s by the Ramblers Association and is now one of England's best-known long-distance hiking trails. The aim was to offer hikers a continuous, well-marked route through this scenically and culturally diverse region – while at the same time promoting sustainable tourism in the Lake District. The trail runs almost entirely within the Lake District National Park and impressively conveys the natural and cultural soul of this unique region.
Cumbria Way Getting there
The Cumbria Way traditionally starts in Ulverston, a lively market town on the southern edge of the Lake District in north-west England. The town is well connected to the public transport network and can be easily reached by several routes. The easiest and often cheapest way to get there is via Manchester or London. Both cities have international airports with numerous direct connections from all over Europe. From there, you can easily continue to Ulverston by train or rental car, depending on your budget, schedule and preferences.
Air: The nearest airports are:
Manchester Airport – approx. 2–2.5 hours by train (direct connection via Lancaster)
Leeds Bradford Airport – approx. 2.5–3 hours by train with a change in Lancaster
Liverpool Airport – approx. 2.5 hours by train with a change
London Airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted) – approx. 4–5 hours by train via Lancaster
To find cheap flights, I highly recommend Skyscanner – a first-class app that gives you a quick overview of the best flight deals.
Train: National Rail connects Manchester and London directly with Lancaster. From there, regional trains run regularly to Ulverston. The total journey time is:
approx. 2 to 2.5 hours from Manchester Airport
approx. 4 hours from London Euston
The train also runs severalMale täglich. Für die Suche nach einen Zug kann ich dir die OMIO app sehr empfehlen.
As always, I recommend watching a video about the tour:
Cumbria Way route
The Cumbria Way route is generally easy to moderately difficult and ideal for enjoyable long-distance hiking. Only in very wet weather can some sections of moorland become a little more challenging. Most of the route follows well-marked paths, forest roads and gentle trails through open hilly countryside. This means you can concentrate fully on the beauty of the landscape.
Nevertheless, you should carry a GPS device or offline map with you – especially in foggy conditions, in remote high-altitude areas or if you are travelling outside the main season. This will help you stay on course even if the trail markings are missing.
Waymarkings: White arrows and yellow logos with the inscription ‘Cumbria Way’ on wooden posts and stones show you the way.
Luggage transfer: Book your luggage transfer here!
Remember to insure your trip well – because a fall or other typical hiking injury can quickly result in high rescue costs. Auras Insurance offers you worldwide hiking and trekking insurance, specially designed for active travellers.
Use the discount code HIKINGFEX to get 10% off your insurance.
Cumbria Way stages
The Cumbria Way is an impressive hike that takes you through varied landscapes in several stages. The stages offer unique views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and villages. The difficulty varies only slightly depending on the length of the route and the altitude difference:
Classic:
Stage 1: Ulverstone - Coniston (24 km and 600 m ascent)
Stage 2: Coniston - Great Langdale (18 km and 550 m ascent)
Stage 3: Great Langdale - Rosthwaite (11 km and 420 m ascent)
Stage 4: Rosthwaite - Keswick (13 km and 230 m ascent)
Stage 5: Keswick - Caldbeck (23 km and 900 m ascent)
Stage 6: Caldbeck - Carlisle (25 km and 190 m ascent)
For the sporty:
Stage 1: Ulverstone - Coniston (24 km and 600 m ascent)
Stage 2: Coniston - Great Langdale (18 km and 550 m ascent)
Stage 3: Great Langdale – Keswick (24 km and 650 m ascent)
Stage 4: Keswick – Caldbeck (23 km and 900 m ascent)
Stage 5: Caldbeck – Carlisle (25 km and 190 m ascent)
Cumbria Way accommodation
There are several accommodation options along the Cumbria Way, ranging from charming guesthouses and hotels to B&Bs. You can book your accommodation directly here via my partner platform ‘Booking.com’ using the links below. It won't cost you a penny more. I have also compiled a list of all other accommodation and campsites for you.
Wild camping: Not permitted in England. However, there is a campsite at every stage.
Starting point: Ulverstone
Stage 1: Coniston
Coniston Hall
Stage2: Great Langdale
Stage 3: Rosthwaite
Stage 4: Keswick
Stage 5: Caldbeck
Stage 6: Carlisle
Cumbria Way experiences
My experiences on the Cumbria Way are as varied as the long-distance hike itself. Here is a rough overview of what you can expect on your upcoming tour.
Getting there: Getting to the Cumbria Way was very straightforward. I booked a flight to Manchester – an international airport with numerous connections from all over Europe. Once I arrived in Manchester, I took the train (which runs several times a day) directly to Ulverston. Upon arriving in Ulverston, I spent my first night in a cosy bed and breakfast – including a hearty English breakfast the next morning.
Stage 1: Ulverstone - Coniston (24km and 615m ascent)
From the official starting point of the Cumbria Way at ‘The Gill’, you leave Keswick and initially hike through gentle farmland and along easy paths through the foothills. Soon you will enter the Lake District National Park for the first time – and the view of Coniston Water will open up before you. The pretty village of Coniston and the striking peak of Coniston Old Man also appear on the horizon. The path now leads along the lake shore, while the mountain backdrop rises up before you. On your right, you are accompanied by the densely wooded slopes of Grizedale Forest.
Refreshment tips: There is a small shop in Torver. In Coniston, you will find plenty of choice to stock up for the next day of hiking. We recommend the Coniston Foodhouse, where you can get snacks, fresh sandwiches and packed lunches.
Stage 2: Coniston - Great Langdale (18km and 550m ascent)
You start the day with a gentle climb out of the village of Coniston. The route takes you through wooded hills and along beautiful riverside paths. Passing through small settlements such as Colwith and Skelwith Bridge, you gradually enter one of the most impressive landscapes in the Lake District. The wonderfully wide valley of Great Langdale unfolds before you – a real highlight on the Cumbria Way! At the end of this stage, you finally reach Great Langdale – a small village with hospitable residents!
Refreshment tips: You will find cafés in Skelwith Bridge, Elterwater and Chapel Stile. The latter also has a small village shop.
Don't forget to take an emergency bivouac with you. It consists of an emergency blanket that is cold-resistant, a whistle and a mini compass. It should be in your rucksack on every hike anyway.
As the old Scottish saying goes: "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes!"
Stage 3: Great Langdale - Rosthwaite (14km and 400m ascent)
Today, you can expect a mostly flat start from Dungeon Ghyll through the quiet Mickleden Valley before climbing up the challenging Stake Pass. The ascent to Stake Pass is not technically difficult, but it is quite demanding – especially in wet weather. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with a fantastic panoramic view: high moors, mountain ridges and the tranquil expanse of the Lake District spread out before you. Once at the top, the trail leads you down into the remote Langstrath Valley – a real natural gem. As soon as the Borrowdale Valley opens up in front of you, you can continue your leisurely hike along the shores of Derwent Water towards Rosthwaite.
Refreshment tips: You will find charming cafés in Rosthwaite, Grange and Portinscale.
Stage 4: Rosthwaite - Keswick (13km and 200m ascent)
This stage of the Cumbria Way is one of the more leisurely ones – perfect for taking a deep breath and enjoying yourself. You'll hike through the heart of Borrowdale Valley, past ancient trees, babbling brooks and moss-covered dry stone walls. The landscape is green, peaceful and seems like something from another time.
The path starts off gently uphill, taking you through sparse oak forests and open meadows. The closer you get to Grange, the more often you'll catch glimpses of sparkling Derwent Water, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Lake District.
In Portinscale, you cross the suspension bridge – a small highlight just before your destination. Then it's not far to the lively town of Keswick, where cafés, outdoor shops and traditional pubs invite you to linger.
Refreshment tips: In Keswick itself, you'll find a wide selection of supermarkets, cafés and bars – perfect for stocking up for the next stage of your journey.
England isn't exactly known for lots of sunshine – but I still sometimes had it all day long. That's why, as always, I'd like to recommend my beloved Piz Buin Mountain sun cream!
"The sun also shines behind the clouds." Quote from Karl Friedrich Wilhelm Wander
Stage 5: Keswick – Caldbeck (25 km and 900 m ascent)
After setting off from Keswick, the route climbs steeply towards Latrigg – Keswick's local mountain offers fantastic views over Derwent Water right from the start. You will soon reach the car park below the Skiddaw massif. From here, the trail leads you into Glenderaterra Valley, which winds spectacularly between the two famous fells of Skiddaw and Blencathra.
Behind the secluded Skiddaw House, one of the most remote lodgings in England, the Cumbria Way splits into two variants: the high-level route and the low-level route. If the weather permits and you feel fit, you should definitely take the detour via the high route. There you will climb the highest point of the entire Cumbria Way: High Pike at 658 metres.The view is magnificent – on a clear day, you can see as far as the Scottish Lowlands.
Both routes eventually converge again and lead you on through the wide, open hills of Caldbeck Fell – a peaceful, almost meditative landscape. The walk is pleasant but long: the solitude of this stage is beautiful, but it requires stamina and a good sense of direction.
Food: There are no supplies available between Keswick and Caldbeck. You should therefore stock up on water, snacks and possibly a hot meal for the journey in Keswick.
Due to the long distance and the strenuous altitude, I would like to take this opportunity to recommend my ultra-light hiking gear:
I would also like to recommend my beloved Salewa trekking shoes because of the mountain and jungle landscape and the challenging mountain trails:
‘Give a woman the right shoes and she can conquer the world.’ Quote from Marilyn Monroe
Stage 6: Caldbeck – Carlisle (24.5 km and 190 m ascent)
Today, it's time to say goodbye to the Lake District National Park and the majestic mountains that have accompanied you over the last few days. The trail soon follows the River Caldew, which accompanies you almost all the way to Carlisle. The going is fast – pleasantly flat, mostly on well-maintained paths and prepared cycle paths. The change from alpine terrain to an open, wide landscape brings with it a whole new walking pace. You can take a deep breath and enjoy the last few kilometres in peace.
With every step you take, you get closer to the historic city of Carlisle – your destination on the Cumbria Way. When you finally reach it: congratulations! You have completed an extraordinary hike, with all its highs, challenges and quiet moments.
Refreshment tips: There is a small shop in Caldbeck. In Dalston, there is a mini supermarket as well as a few independent shops and cosy cafés. Ideal for refuelling or picking up a little souvenir for the journey home.
Cumbria Way best time to visit
The recommended time to visit the Cumbria Way is between May and October, with the most stable weather conditions usually occurring between June and August. During this period, you can expect long days, pleasant temperatures and the best chances of clear visibility in the higher elevations of the Lake District.
May and June are perfect for those who want to enjoy the trails in peace and quiet. Nature is at its most vibrant at this time of year: fresh green foliage, flowering meadows and birdsong accompany you every step of the way. From September onwards, calm slowly returns to the valleys – the light becomes softer, the air clearer, and the landscape begins to take on autumnal colours. A wonderful time for those who want to experience the trail in a particularly atmospheric way.
If you want to get a more accurate picture of the typical weather along the route, we recommend taking a look at historical weather data for regions such as Coniston, Borrowdale or Caldbeck. This will help you to better estimate the temperature, probability of rain and hours of sunshine throughout the year.
Cumbria Way – further information
Here you will find further important information about the Cumbria Way!
Gas cartridge: You can find one at Mountain Warehouse Altrincham in Manchester or, even better, at Mountain Warehouse Ulverston!
Money: ATMs and credit cards are accepted in many places. Nevertheless, you should take enough cash with you on your trip.
Luggage transfer: Book your luggage transfer here!
Tent: There is a campsite at every stage. You can find them in the ‘Accommodation’ section.
Wild camping: Not permitted in England.
Water: There are water sources in some places along the way, but they are not always reliable. I therefore recommend that you fill up your water supply at your accommodation before starting each day's stage. If you want to refill your water on the go, be sure to filter or boil it to be on the safe side.
Cumbria Way packing list
Here I recommend the most important hiking equipment that I own, have tested myself and have also bought myself. I pay a lot of attention to the weight and quality of my equipment. The equipment should simply feel good on longer tours and also be light. I can recommend the equipment for women because my wife uses it and it is basically the same as the equipment for men.
Note: Please keep in mind that the packing list is general and you will have to adapt it depending on the season and your needs!
Advertising note: These product links are affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, I will receive a small commission without you having to pay more. This is for the maintenance of my blog and you support me with my project, for which I am very grateful. Thank you very much!
Clothes
Hiking boots
Hiking shorts
Long hiking pants
Functional shirt
Hybridjacket
Fleece-jacket
Rain jacket
Functional underwear
Hiking socks
Other hiking equipment:
• Sun cap
Hiking backback (approx. 60 litres or as required)
by EXPED - unfortunately not available on Amazon.
• Backback - Ospray (was my old one and is also good)
Technology and orientation:
• Compass
• Headlamp
• GPS device or GPS watch if necessary
• Binoculars if necessary
Catering:
• Sweets to keep up morale :)
Health & first Aid:
• First Aid (small and light)
• Tape
• Bivouac
• Toilet paper
Other:
• Passport/Insurance certificate
• cash
• Gas cartridge
Film equipment:
• Camera
• Drone
• Tripod
• Clip
To prepare yourself optimally for your hikes, I recommend the workouts on my YouTube channel.
Long-distance hiking trails in Europe: 90 routes, all countries
Safety advice
Cumbria Way map
Here you will find a map of the Cumbria Way, which you can use to get a rough overview for planning purposes. For more detailed planning, I would recommend the maps from Outdooractive and Komoot.
Outdooractive: https://out.ac/3wqKBx
Cumbria Way's most beautiful stages
The most beautiful stages of the Cumbria Way combine spectacular landscapes and genuine hiking highlights: from Coniston, an idyllic path along the lake with views of the Old Man awaits you, followed by the impressive Great Langdale Valley. The ascent over Stake Pass and the high route over High Pike with views stretching as far as the Scottish Lowlands are particularly rewarding. In valleys such as Borrowdale or on the shores of Derwent Water, charming villages and quiet paths invite you to enjoy yourself – long-distance hiking at its best.
Cumbria Way start
The Cumbria Way starts in the historic market town of Ulverston near Morecambe Bay. A stone monument marks the official starting point. Soon you leave the streets of the town and follow narrow paths through gentle farmland – with the Lake District National Park already on the horizon. An atmospheric start!
Cumbria Way distance (Cumbria Way length)
The Cumbria Way covers about 120 km (73 miles) through the Lake District, running from Ulverston to Carlisle.
Cumbria Way wild camping
Wild camping on the Cumbria Way is generally possible, but only if you observe the ‘Leave no trace’ rules and show consideration for private property. You will find suitable, quiet spots, especially in the more remote sections between Langdale and Caldbeck. Pay attention to weather conditions and water supplies – and if in doubt, always ask politely (information provided without guarantee).
Cumbria Way camping
Along the Cumbria Way, you will find at least one well-equipped campsite on each stage. These offer a comfortable base to rest and recharge your batteries. You can find an overview of all campsites and other accommodation options in the ‘Accommodation’ section – so you can plan your tour with complete peace of mind.
Cumbria way in 7 days
For the Cumbria Way in 7 days, you will need to split up the last and longest stage of the trail again. There are numerous accommodations that you can book halfway along the route. The best way to do this is to use Booking.com.
Cumbria Way baggage transfer
Book your luggage transfer here! Luggage transfer on the Cumbria Way is offered by several local providers, transporting your bags between accommodations each day. This service allows you to hike with only a daypack, making the route more comfortable and accessible for walkers of all experience levels.
Cumbria Way
The Cumbria Way in northern England is a 120 km long-distance hiking trail that leads through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Lake District. You can expect an impressive mix of quiet valleys, clear lakes, vast moors and gentle mountain slopes. The trail is well signposted and ideal for hikers of moderate fitness – stages can be easily adjusted depending on length and elevation profile. Look forward to a great time in one of the most charming hiking regions in Great Britain – and good luck on your journey!
As always, I would be very happy to receive feedback via one of my channels.
You are also welcome to leave me a comment here.
Hello, I am Christian, the chief globetrotter of this Site and an enthusiastic adventurer, hiker and filmmaker. I love to explore new paths and inspire people with them, and I love to share my hiking knowledge with you! You can also find my videos on YouTube! On my blog you can find tips for beginners and professionals on the greatest and most beautiful hiking tours there are. I want to encourage people to explore the world as a hiker, whether in the countryside, through the forest or in the mountains. True to the motto: If you haven't hiked, you haven't seen the world,
On my blog, I also write about hiking gear, the right summit training and nature conservation, as well as tips and information about hiking.