Date Posted: 13th August 2026
The Westmorland and Furness Way has undergone considerable improvement works ahead of its opening in September 2026. While ongoing maintenance and repair works will continue, the route is now walkable.
Please be aware of the following works:
Over the Pennines – Section 1: Alston to Milburn
Route Progress:
- This section is open with a diversion around a bridge, which is currently closed for repair, at Dryburn.
- As the path approaches Milburn conditions can be wet depending on the weather.
Following the Eden - Section 2: Milburn to Kirkby Stephen
Route Progress:
- Work on this section mainly involves repairs and improvements to stiles and gates, clearance work and new signposts, but the route is open.
Exploring the Dales and Howgills - Section 3: Kirkby Stephen to Sedbergh
Route Progress:
- Overall, the paths in this section are in good repair because the Westmorland & Furness Way follows established routes.
- If the Low Route is chosen, please be aware surface improvement works are required so the path will be rough in parts.
From the Dales to the Lakes - Section 4: Sedbergh to Bowness
Route Progress:
- After leaving Sedbergh there is a short section of walking along the A683, and the verge is not always suitable for walking. An assessment is underway and improvement work, or a route diversion, may follow.
- The River Lune to Beck Foot at Lowgill – along this section there are areas where the path narrows and there is some erosion. Improvement work may be required.
- Low Gill to Burneside section - Improvement works to stiles and gates is ongoing.
- Burneside to Bowness-on-Windermere - Improvement works to stiles and gates is ongoing and work is taking place to strengthen the path between Cowan Head and Hagg Foot to prevent the path from flooding and stop river erosion. This work is taking place under Environment Agency Licence.
Through Furness woodlands and foothills - Section 5: Bowness to Ulverston
Route Progress:
- Footpath repairs and widening ongoing through the Grizedale Forest section but the route is passable with care.
- Parkamoor section- surfacing and drainage work taking place throughout spring/summer 26
Ulverston to Furness Abbey - Section 6: Along the Furness Coast
Route Progress:
- From Baycliff to Moat Farm near Newbiggin there are some new sections of access to be established for the KCIII English Coast Path, these are across farmland, so the route is not officially open
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