Know before you go

Helpful tips on planning your route, when to visit, staying safe outdoors and making the most of your time along the Cumbria Coastal Route.

Plan your route

Ahead of your visit, plan your route to make the most of your trip. Our handy maps show the main Cumbria Coastal Route by road and rail, with suggested add-ons to see even more. Make it your own and explore some of the towns, villages and valleys nearby the route too.

Make sure to allow plenty of time to enjoy the many attractions and locations along the route, whether you’re travelling the whole route or enjoying one or two of the smaller sections. Don’t rush and soak it all in.

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How long should I allow?

If you’re planning to explore the entire route, we recommend at least 5 - 7 days to take it all in. If you don’t have that much time to explore, choosing one or two of the smaller sections is a great way to experience some of the route. For each, we’d recommend 2 - 3 days.

However, the great thing about the Cumbria Coastal Route is it can be enjoyed at your own pace - and revisited time and time again.

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What time of year should I visit

The Cumbria Coastal Route offers something for everyone, no matter the time of year. The summer months are a popular choice, with sunny days spent on the beach and a vibrant array of events taking place. Come autumn, it’s time for spooktacular Halloween events and beautiful seasonal colour. Winter is a quieter time to visit, making for a peaceful escape from daily life. In spring, look out for wildflowers on the Whitehaven coast and plenty to see and do.

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Dog Friendly Beaches

Dogs are allowed year-round on most beaches along the Cumbria coast, making this a great route to enjoy with your canine companions! You’ll often spot dogs enjoying the fresh sea air in places like Arnside, Silecroft and St Bees beach. 

However, be sure to check ahead and pay particular attention at designated nature reserves, where dogs may be allowed but must be kept on a lead to protect the resident wildlife. 

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Leave no trace

While exploring this beautiful part of Cumbria, remember to leave no trace. With an abundance of natural landscapes to explore, it’s important to take only photographs and leave only footsteps. Be mindful of wildlife, and keep dogs on leads on nature reserves and around livestock.

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Visit like a local

With so many fantastic independent businesses along the Cumbria Coast, it’s a great place to eat and shop local. From freshly caught fish to farm shops and delis, family run eateries to independent retailers, there’s lots to choose from. Support our local communities and enjoy the best of the coast along the way.

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Be Adventure Smart

If you’re planning to make outdoor adventure a part of your Cumbria Coastal Route experience, then it pays to be prepared before you go.

There are plenty of great hiking routes along and around the route. Some are low level coastal walks, while others take you up mountains - including the option to tackle Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak. Be prepared by asking yourself three questions: 

• Am I confident I have the knowledge and skills for the walk?
• Do I know what the weather will be like?
• Do I have the right gear?

Adventure Smart has lots of useful information to help you safely enjoy an outdoor adventure, and there are lots of local guides along the route who can help with everything from hiking and cycling to getting out on the water.

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Tide times

The Cumbria Coast is a beautiful place, shaped by its ever changing tides. By their very nature, the tides also ebb and flow - so if you’re heading for the beach, it’s important to check tide times beforehand to avoid getting stuck. These are available online via the HM Coastguard website, which also has lots of useful information about staying safe in the water and what to do in an emergency.