Itinerary Planner

Cumbrian Coastal Route 200 - Section 5 - Maryport to Carlisle- Solway Coast to City Stay

Route: B5300, B5302, A596

Miles: 51

Head North from Maryport towards Silloth on the Solway Coast.The Solway’s outstanding landscapes, diverse habitats and rich heritage have a special character that is recognised as an AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).

The natural indentation of the Solway Firth influenced the building of Hadrian’s Wall in AD 122, a 73-mile (117 km) frontier between Bowness-on-Solway in the west and Wallsend (Tynemouth) in the east, which marked the northern extent of the Roman Empire. Although the wall is no longer visible in this area evidence of Roman occupation survives, not only in its long straight roads.

Vikings, Normans, monastic orders, smugglers, Border reivers and the Victorians have also left their mark on this rich landscape.

Head north from Maryport on the B5300 towards the Victorian seaside town of Silloth, making sure to call in at the characterful village of Allonby along the way. Allonby is a great base for walkers as it's on the Cumbrian Coastal Way and used to be on a key smuggling route! Smuggling was rife along the Solway coasts. Spirits, tobacco and fine textiles were regularly smuggled in from Scotland, Ireland and the Isle of Man. By contrast, wool was smuggled out of the county to avoid high export duties.

Silloth is a popular destination for its leisurely atmosphere, seaside recreation and spectacular sunsets. With quirky shops and cafes, and great architecture and public spaces, you can see why this was a favourite resort in Victorian Times. From a championship golf course, to walking, cycling and bird-watching, there's something to keep everyone happy here.

In the centre of Silloth is the Discovery Centre. Here you will find everything you need to know about the area, to help you make the most of your visit. There is also a fantastic walk to Grune Point, a long spit of land which sticks out into the Morecambe estuary (not to be confused with Morecambe Bay!) , providing habitat for rare plants and even rarer Natterjack Toads.

After spending some time exploring, head along the B5302 towards Abbeytown. In medieval times, this was one of the most important towns in the north of England – its wealth and influence emanating from the Cistercian abbey of Holm Cultram. Nearby Newton Arlosh is the ‘new town’ founded by the monks of Holm Cultram after the town of Skinburness was washed away by floods in 1301/2.

Heading further inland on the B5302 brings you to Wigton, a working, historic market town. It has a long and fascinating history that can be explored following its Heritage Trail. The author and novelist, Melvyn Bragg was born here and his work has deep connections with the area. From here you can pick up the A595 through to Carlisle, but a worthy detour takes you to Watchtree Nature Reserve, a 205 acre fully accessible nature reserve situated on the Solway plain 6 miles southwest of Carlisle. The reserve hosts different habitats teaming in wildlife plus a network of accessible trails and onsite bike hire, making it easy to explore. Not to mention the on-site cafe.

Finally onward to Carlisle, with city centre parking this mobile and camper-friendly city has a lot to offer, providing a cosmopolitan contrast to the coast, yet still steeped in history and heritage. We recommend taking a chunk of time here to explore the city and its many attractions. Visit Carlisle Castle and the cathedral, stroll through Bitts Park or take a walk down memory lane at Tullie House Museum and Gallery.  

Just outside the city centre lies Talkin Tarn, a stunning glacial tarn nestled in acres of woodland and meadowland. There are great woodland trails, bike hire, boat hire and activities to enjoy, plus a great tea room with views out over the tarn.

Your journey needn't end here. Carlisle sits just off the M6 but firmly on the Roman frontier and there is plenty more to explore. But maybe for another day!