5-Day Cumbria Way Route Itinerary - Hiker Pace

The Cumbria Way begins at The Gill car park on the eastern edge of Ulverston, climbing steadily through rolling farmland with stiles over drystone walls. Pass through Broughton Beck and continue northward across fields before the landscape turns wilder, skirting Tottlebank Height and climbing to Beacon Tarn with its panoramic views of the Coniston Fells. Descend through heather and bilberry to reach Coniston Water's eastern shore, following the lakeshore through ancient twisted oaks and pines before arriving in Coniston village with its pubs, cafes and shops.

A shorter day through some of Lakeland's finest scenery. Head northeast through Yewdale and climb to the picturesque Tarn Hows, a National Trust beauty spot with magnificent views across the water to the surrounding fells. Descend past High Park Tea Garden toward Skelwith Bridge, then follow the River Brathay to emerge onto Elterwater Common with the Langdale Pikes rising ahead. Continue through the charming villages of Elterwater and Chapel Stile before pushing deeper into Great Langdale, where Pike of Stickle dominates the skyline and the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel awaits, a historic mountaineers' refuge with its Walker's Bar.

The most dramatic day on the trail. Climb steeply up Stake Pass with panoramic views of both Langdale and Borrowdale, then descend into the remote Langstrath valley alongside Langstrath Beck through an ancient glacial landscape. Pass Black Moss Pot wild swimming spot and Galleny Force waterfall before reaching Stonethwaite and Rosthwaite. From here, follow the River Derwent through Borrowdale's woodland, past the distinctive double-arched bridge at Grange, and along Derwentwater's western shore through ancient oak woodland to reach the bustling market town of Keswick.

The longest day takes you through the route's most remote terrain. Climb beneath the imposing Lonscale Crags with spectacular views across to the Helvellyn range, then traverse open fellside to reach Skiddaw House, at 470m Britain's highest and most remote hostel. Continue past the impressive Whitewater Dash waterfall and descend through pastureland to Peter House Farm. Thread through the hamlets of Longlands, Branthwaite and Fellside before arriving at Caldbeck with its welcoming Oddfellows Arms and the historic Priest's Mill.

Follow the River Caldew downstream along pleasant riverside paths through wildflower meadows. Pass the hamlet of Sebergham and its ancient church, continue through tranquil Lime House Wood, then reach Dalston where pubs offer refreshment. The final stretch follows the river through Cummersdale and into the heart of Carlisle, finishing along Castle Street past the Cathedral to the Market Cross, time to celebrate completing this diverse journey from Ulverston's gentle hills to Carlisle's historic streets.