Following mainly low-level paths along valleys and over passes, the Cumbria Way is an excellent way for runners to explore the delights of the Lake District without the worry of more technical or wilder terrain.
The route cuts through classic Lakeland territory, including dramatic Langdale, much-mythologised Borrowdale, Derwent Water, Skiddaw Forest, Caldbeck and more.
This is the land of William Wordsworth and Alfred Wainwright, who called the fells his "magic mountains".
The Cumbria Way is the perfect choice for exploring England's most spectacular scenery and for those wanting an accessible challenge.

Route facts
Trail profile

Itineraries
3 nights
2 days running
Tour code: R-CUMW1
Price £310 per person
4 nights
3 days running
Tour code: R-CUMW2
Price £395 per person
5 nights
4 days running
Tour code: R-CUMW3
Price £475 per person
6 nights
5 days running
Tour code: R-CUMW4
Price £540 per person
Our prices are based upon two people sharing a room. If you are running on your own, or are part of a group, but require a room of your own, one of the following charges applies:
- Solo Runner Supplement: £38 per person / per night
- Single Supplement: £28 per person / per night
You can add rest days at any of the overnight stops:
- Extra night (Standard): £55 per person / per night
- Extra night (Great Langdale/Dungeon Ghyll): £60 per person / per night
The price you pay includes:
- Breakfast each day.
- Door to door luggage transfer.
- Maps with the route marked on and a guidebook describing the trail.
- An information pack containing an itinerary, instructions on how to find your accommodation each night, town plans, information about facilities and places of interest along the trail and a kit list.
- Useful information and travel links to assist you in travelling to the start of the holiday and back from the end of it
- Emergency assistance.
Useful information and travel links that will assist you in your plans to travel to the start of the holiday and back from the end of it are sent to you with your full tour pack. A summary is given below:
![]() Air |
The most convenient international airport is Manchester, Leeds Bradford or Newcastle. |
![]() Rail |
There is a railway station at Ulverston (start of trail) and at Carlisle (end of trail). From London - There are regular trains from London Euston to Ulverston, usually via a transfer at Preston or Lancaster Station. |
![]() Car |
For advice on driving to the start of the trail, please visit www.theaa.com which has a very useful route planner. |
![]() Returning to the start |
The easiest way to return to the start of the trail is by taking a train from Carlisle to Ulverston. |
Coniston, for example, has plenty to see and do to keep you entertained on your rest day. You could take a walk to the summit of Coniston Old Man and discover breath-taking views, or even enjoy a boat trip on Coniston Water aboard the elegant Victorian steam yacht 'Gondola'. There is also the pretty village of Hawkshead nearby, which boasts many historical buildings including Hawkshead Courthouse, St. Michael's Church and the old Grammar School where Wordsworth was educated; the desk on which he carved his name can still be seen.
The settlement of Rosthwaite is a great rest stop for runners, with a quiet atmosphere that allows you to unwind and relax surrounded by beautiful countryside. Spend the day enjoying a gentle walk or recovery run around the local area, before taking your pick of the fantastic pubs, tearooms and restaurants in which to refuel ready for the rest of the trail.
The old market town of Keswick is another good choice for an extra night, particularly if you are looking for a sports shop to refresh your running kit. This bustling little town is the North Lakes? most popular holiday and day trip destination, with plenty of shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants to enjoy. There are regular boat trips on Derwentwater and a number of great short trails to discover, including a walk to the mystical Castlerigg Stone Circle or a climb up Skiddaw, the fourth highest mountain in England.
Many people like to have an extra night?s stay at the end of the trail in Carlisle, the largest city in England with a thriving community and fascinating history. Visit the award winning Tullie House Museum, the 12th century cathedral, the half-timbered guildhall that houses a local history museum and the vast medieval castle, with its ancient chambers, stairways and the dungeons that contain the infamous 'licking stones'. As well as these and all of the usual amenities, Carlisle is a fantastic destination for shopping, dining, getting pampered at a health centre and generally enjoying the achievement of completing your trail run along the Cumbria Way.
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