Let's Go Car-free - Discover the Keswick to Threlkeld Trail

For this car-free itinerary, we’re taking you to the beautiful market town of Keswick, which is nestled between Bassenthwaite Lake and Derwentwater amongst stunning mountain scenery. One of the great things about Keswick is you do not have to climb a mountain (although you can if you wish) to enjoy the stunning views. Leave the car at home and have a brilliant day out by using our ‘bus and walk’ itinerary, which includes an option for a pub lunch.

If you’re planning to stay for a few days, Penrith and Keswick are both great places to base yourself. Many accommodation providers will look after your bags ahead of check in – so arrive early, drop off your luggage, and head out for a car-free adventure.

Avanti train at Penrith Railway Station

Morning

Hop on the train and head for Penrith. Located on the West Coast Main line, it is around a three-hour train ride from London and just over an hour from Glasgow on a direct Avanti West Coast service. You can also get here with direct TransPennine Express services from cities like Edinburgh (just over 1h30m). 

Upon arrival, take the X4 Stagecoach service from Penrith Railway Station and enjoy a stunning journey through the Lakeland fells through to Keswick.

Top tip: if you arrive in Penrith with time to spare, why not explore the ruins of the town’s 14^th century castle, which are located in a public park close to the railway station.

Stagecoach X4 service

Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Trail

Alight from the X4 bus at the Keswick Park Hotel stop and walk along Station Road, over the River Greta, to begin this walk. The route starts at the public car park opposite the old station building (postcode: CA12 4NP) and map grid reference: NY 270238.

The Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Trail is part of the Miles Without Stiles initiative; and the route is suitable for wheelchairs, trampers, prams and cyclists. It follows the path of the old Keswick to Penrith Railway, passing by the River Greta; and travelling through original Victorian railway bridges and tunnels.

Stretching for 5KM each way along a smooth, tarmacked path, it’s an accessible route which is also great for families. Stroll along at your leisure, admiring the pretty countryside views as you walk.

Follow the well-marked path through to the village of Threlkeld, where you can enjoy a well-earned pub lunch at the Horse and Farrier . From here, you can choose to walk back to Keswick; or catch the X4 bus back to either Keswick or Penrith.

Top Tips

• Public Transport: Travel by Avanti West Coast or TransPennine Express to Penrith North Lakes and catch the Stagecoach X4 service to Keswick.
• Travelling with Dogs on Public Transport: When travelling with Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express, you can take up to two domestic pets for no extra charge. Please check the guidance on their websites. Dogs are allowed to travel on Stagecoach buses at the discretion of the driver. Please be aware that the driver will consider things like if there is already another pet on the bus when making their decision. Assistance and guide dogs can travel at all times.
• Cycle Hire: If you would like to explore the area on bike you can hire them from Arragons Cycle Centre in Penrith. They can even arrange delivery to your accommodation if you’re staying in Penrith.
• Accommodation and tourist information: Head to our accommodation page for lots of information on places to stay and things to do. There is also a Lake District National Park Tourist Information Centre located in Keswick’s Moot Hall, if you need any assistance on the day of your walk.
• Useful Walking Map: The walking route map is for illustrative purposes only. OS Explorer 4 map provides more detailed information. If you are heading out on the fells, make sure you stay safe and be #AdventureSmart: www.adventuresmart.uk