Western Walks – The Colourful Coast
At the Guide we’ve taken a look slightly closer to home and are listing just some of the best walks in the wonderful Western Lakes and The Colourful Coast.
The Colourful Coast
Whitehaven > St Bees
Difficulty: Hard
7 Miles
https://www.nationaltrust.org.
This walk along Cumbria’s most beautiful stretch of coastline has something for everyone, history-buffs will appreciate Haig-pit, a hark back to the region’s mining past while nature lovers will be fascinated by the chance to view black guillemots and puffins along this stretch of coast. Offering views of the Isle of Man, Scotland and of course the Cumbrian Fells this walk bridges the gap between coast and countryside in sublime fashion. Secluded shingle beaches just short scrambles away allow ramblers the chance to escape reality for a few minutes and if you’re lucky even glimpse a seal or two. The Colourful Coast has it all.
Maritime Whitehaven
Whitehaven
Difficulty: Easy
1.8 Miles
http://www.bbc.co.uk/cumbria/
Whitehaven’s maritime history is no surprise to locals but this stroll around the town’s quaint harbourside and historic Georgian streets is a fantastic reminder of the naval history our seaside town possesses. Starting at the Whiting Shoal sculpture and making its way along the harbour before scurrying through the 18th century cobbled streets this walk makes it hard to forget the tales of: smugglers, rum, and American led attacks on Whitehaven. An easy walk which despite some slightly uneven walkways is perfect for the whole family and a sunset on the harbourside is difficult to top.
Clint’s Quarry
Nr Egremont (CA22 2SZ)
Difficulty: Very Easy
0.56 Miles
http://www.
Clint’s Quarry is a wildlife trust protected nature reserve near Egremont. Don’t let initial impressions fool you this long forgotten little quarry has all the charms of a secret garden. The damp conditions have allowed wildflowers and orchids to thrive and butterflies flutter across your path as you make your way round this unchallenging route. Strayed across the quarry are ponds that are home to frogs and newts. This stroll immerses walkers into the peaceful world of native British wildlife. Perfect for a Summer evening this route’s short length makes it suitable for everyone and ideal for clearing your head after a busy week at work.
Longlands Lake
Biggrigg (CA23 3AD)
Difficulty: Very Easy
0.75 Miles
http://www.cumbria.gov.uk/
Nestled between Egremont and Cleator Moor, Longlands Lake is an important breeding ground for a variety of British bird species including: swans, coots, moorhens and mallards. This walk encircles the lake on a crushed stone path meaning even pushchairs can be brought along for the trip. With information points giving walkers the history of the lake and rest stops placed strategically along the route it’s perfect for less mobile walkers and history lovers alike. Longlands offers views of the beautiful Dent Fell as well as views up the quintessentially English River Ehen and of the old iron ore workings. An adjacent Picnic Site means no one will go hungry whilst visiting the lake.
Dent Fell and Nannycatch Valley
Wath Brow
4.3 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
http://www.loweswatercam.co.
This moderate walk takes trekkers up to an elevation of over 1000ft and takes in: Uldale Plantation, Dent Fell, Raven Crag and Nannycatch Gate. Part of a Coast-to-Coast route Dent Fell offers some spectacular views across our local fells. Starting at the forest entrance just outside of Wath Brow, this route then proceeds along dirt paths used by felling companies before rising up to the summit of Dent Fell. The summit affords vistas of the entire West Coast and St Bees headland. The descent drops walkers down into the beautiful Nannycatch valley before doubling back on itself using the bridleway.
The Countryside Code
- Be safe, plan ahead and follow any signs
- Leave gates and property as you find them
- Protect plants and animals and take your litter home
- Keep dogs under close control
- Consider other people
