Get ready to lace up your hiking boots and embark on an adventure like no other! A breathtaking 120-mile walking trail has just been unveiled, promising to redefine how we explore the heart of England’s most stunning landscapes. But here’s where it gets exciting: the Westmorland and Furness Way isn’t just another trail—it’s a journey through time, nature, and culture, stretching from the historic Furness Abbey in the south to the charming town of Alston in the north. This multi-day trek is designed to showcase the very best of the region, including the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the iconic Lake District National Park.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Can this new route truly rival the likes of the Coast-to-Coast walk or the Pennine Way? Councillor John Murray, Westmorland and Furness Council’s cabinet member for transport, certainly thinks so. He believes the trail will not only celebrate the area’s diverse landscapes but also make them more accessible to walkers of all levels. Whether you’re up for a leisurely few miles or the ultimate challenge of conquering the entire 120 miles over several days, this route has something for everyone.
The trail is divided into six captivating stages, each offering its own unique charm:
- Alston to Milburn – 16 miles (25km): A picturesque start to the journey, winding through rolling hills and quaint villages.
- Milburn to Kirkby Stephen – 23 miles (37km): This leg takes you deeper into the countryside, with stunning views of the Eden Valley.
- Kirkby Stephen to Sedbergh – 16 miles (25km): Known for its tranquil landscapes, this section is perfect for those seeking peace and reflection.
- Sedbergh to Bowness – 27 miles (43km): Here, the trail begins to reveal glimpses of the majestic Lake District, building anticipation for what’s to come.
- Bowness to Ulverston – 21 miles (33km): A diverse stretch that combines lakeside beauty with historic market towns.
- Ulverston to Furness Abbey – 17 miles (27km): The grand finale, culminating at the ancient ruins of Furness Abbey, a perfect end to an unforgettable journey.
Completing the entire route is estimated to take between eight to 17 days, depending on your pace and how often you pause to soak in the scenery. But this trail is about more than just walking—it’s a catalyst for regenerative tourism, offering economic boosts to local communities as walkers seek places to eat, drink, and rest. And this is the part most people miss: The council is exploring creative ways to ensure local towns like Kendal, Penrith, and Barrow benefit from the trail, potentially adding ‘loops’ to include these larger hubs.
So, what do you think? Will the Westmorland and Furness Way become the next great British walking trail? Or is it destined to remain a hidden gem? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you’ve got a story suggestion for BBC Cumbria, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Happy trails!
