Access for all: Unlocking the Outdoors

About

Unlocking the Outdoors - a 2-day accessible trail taking in Carlisle, Keswick and the Western Lake District

This area’s natural landscapes are here for all to enjoy, no matter your ability. Accessible paths await, with Tramper hire and activities for all. Experience the great outdoors with this two-day itinerary taking in nature, walks, and delicious food and drink.

Highlights:

• Accessible walking routes
• Afternoon tea on a train
• England’s only true mountain forest
   

Good to know: Tramper hire is available at several locations with Outdoor Mobility. Advance booking is essential to ensure availability. A range of membership options are available, from single use sessions to an annual membership which offers excellent value for money.

Planning an adventure in the Lake District, Cumbria? Make sure you’re prepared for your route, the weather, and every possibility. Be AdventureSmart and check out our top tips on staying safe, and having fun before you go.

Day 1 - Carlisle

Begin your day around Carlisle, with a trip to a country park or nature reserve. Here, you can easily experience the great outdoors via accessible paths offering beautiful views.

1. Talkin Tarn Country Park
   Tarn Road, Brampton CA8 1HN
   Just a short distance from Carlisle city centre you'll find a beautiful glacial tarn, surrounded by ancient woodlands.As well as wildlife including red squirrels and otters, the park is also home to a tramper friendly route around the water. A tramper is available to hire through Lake District Outdoor Mobility. Membership is required; be sure to book in advance.
   Pack a picnic, or head to the on-site cafe for hot and cold drinks, as well as light bites.
    
2. Watchtree Nature Reserve
   Nr Wiggonby, Carlisle CA5 6NL
   This fully accessible, 250 acre nature reserve on the Solway Plain is home to various habitats teeming with wildlife. There’s also a network of accessible trails and onsite bike hire, including a cargo trike, companion cycles and a wheelchair carrying tricycle.
   Once you’ve explored the nature reserve, refuel at the Watchtree Cafe or enjoy an ice cream from the Three Hills Gelato Shack.

Good to know: Keep an eye out for Miles Without Stiles routes: A collection of over 50+ walking routes across the Lake District National Park, suitable for those with limited mobility including wheelchair users and families with pushchairs.

Day 1 - Where to stay

• The Tranquil Otter
  The Lough House, Thurstonfield, Carlisle CA5 6HB
   
• Castlerigg Hall Caravan, Camping, Glamping Park
  Castlerigg Hall, Castlerigg, Keswick CA12 4TE
   
• The Inn on the Square
  Market Square, Keswick CA12 5JF
   
• Tottergill Farm Cottages
  Castle Carrock, Brampton CA8 9DP
   
• Burns Farm Caravans, Camping & Glamping
  St Johns-in-the-Vale, Keswick CA12 4RR
   
• Irton House Farm
  Isel, Cockermouth CA13 9ST
   

Day 2 - Keswick and The Western Lake District

For your second day, head to Keswick and the surrounding area. Located in the Western Lake District, this area is known for its hiking trails and stunning views - and they’re here for all to enjoy.

1. Whinlatter Forest
   Whinlatter Pass, Keswick CA12 5TW
   England’s only true mountain forest, Whinlatter makes for a great day out. Some trails are suitable for all-terrain mobility scooters, which are available to hire on site through Outdoor Mobility. This includes the Wow trail: an immersive trail which tells the story of Whinlatter. It’s suitable for some all-terrain mobility scooters, with some gradual and steeper slopes. There is also the option of a 1.1 mile sensory walk.
   Also at Whinlatter, you’ll find a Visitor Centre; and Go Ape - a treetop ropes course which can accommodate additional needs where possible.Staff are always happy to help, so call ahead to discuss any specific requirements.
   
   Once you’ve finished exploring, the on-site Cafe Ambio is a great place to eat, with a locally sourced menu of home cooked food.
    
2. Miles Without Stiles route: The Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Trail
   CA12 4NP
   Beginning in Keswick, near Fitz Park, this Miles Without Stiles route was opened in December 2020 as a fully accessible path, with low gradients and a smooth, tarmacked surface. Following an old railway line, the trail runs for 5km each way, passing over the River Greta. Begin in Keswick and enjoy the walk to Threlkeld, where you can refuel at the Threlkeld Coffee Shop before enjoying the route back.
    
3. Bassenthwaite Lake Station
   Bassenthwaite CA13 9YL
   With an award winning accessibility offering, this quirky cafe and events venue offers breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea on board the exact Orient Express train used in the 2017 movie, Murder on the Orient Express, featuring the likes of Kenneth Branagh and Judi Dench.
    
4. Lake District Calvert Trust
   Little Crosthwaite, Keswick CA12 4QD
   Located on the outskirts of Keswick and offering residential outdoor adventure holiday breaks for people with disabilities, Calvert Lakes provides a varied programme of activities alongside accommodation options for a wide range of access requirements.
   Specialist staff ensure holidays are tailored to the needs of all visitors. There are a range of options, from weekend breaks to full week holidays; keep an eye out for taster sessions and shorter summer clubs for kids.
   A state of the art multi-sensory swimming pool can be booked for shorter, 1.5 hour sessions.
   Open daily to both visitors and the local community, it offers a range of features including bubble pads, indoor and outdoor seating, and an adjustable pool floor. Advance booking is essential.
    

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This itinerary is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is supported by Cumberland Council and Sellafield Ltd.