The Westmorland and Furness Way will be the UK’s newest long-distance walking route when unveiled this autumn, taking in some of the north’s most spectacular scenery, including the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District.
Launching on 15th September, the 120-mile Westmorland and Furness Way will span through the North Pennines National Landscape, the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the Lake District National Park and showcase the expanse of Morecambe Bay.
The signed trail has been developed by Westmorland and Furness Council, building on the initial concept of local walker and guidebook writer, David Pitt. Using existing trails where possible, the Westmorland and Furness Way creates a continuous route from Alston - England’s highest market town – in the north, to the sandstone ruins of the 900-year old Furness Abbey in the south.
Varied landscapes and terrain will include open moorland, countryside, fells, rivers and coast, and the route is said to offer walking opportunities for a range of ages and abilities.
The Westmorland and Furness Way in sections
The new route is presented in six sections, so groups can plan day walks, a weekend trip along the route or a longer, more immersive walking holiday taking an estimated 8-17 days to complete.
- Over the Pennines - Section 1: Alston to Milburn (16 miles, taking an estimated 1 to 2 days)
- Following the Eden - Section 2: Milburn to Kirkby Stephen (23 miles, taking an estimated 2 to 3 days)
- Exploring the Dales and Howgills - Section 3: Kirkby Stephen to Sedbergh (16 miles, taking an estimated 1 to 3 days)
- From the Dales to the Lakes - Section 4: Sedbergh to Bowness (27 miles, taking an estimated 2 to 4 days)
- Through Furness woodlands and foothills - Section 5: Bowness to Ulverston (21 miles, taking an estimated 1 to 3 days)
- Along the Furness Coast - Section 6: Ulverston to Furness Abbey (17 miles, taking an estimated 1 to 2 days)
Along the signed route, groups can expect plenty of viewpoints, interesting cultural attractions and heritage sites to pause at, highlighted by interpretation boards.
Stomping and stamping
Westmorland and Furness Council is also introducing a special ‘Walker’s Passport’ scheme, featuring designated stamping points at participating venues along the route. It’s designed to mark individual progress along the Westmorland and Furness Way while also supporting local businesses and charities.
Councillor Adrian Waite, Westmorland and Furness Council’s cabinet member for environmental services and transport said: “We are incredibly proud to have developed the spectacular Westmorland and Furness Way, designed to connect both visitors and local communities with our rich heritage, nature and diverse landscapes.”
It is hoped the route will have a range of positive outcomes, as Adrian explained: “As well as being an excellent way to exercise and keep fit and healthy, the route will also provide opportunities for regenerative tourism and economic boosts for communities along the route, with walkers looking for places to eat, drink and sleep as they navigate their journey.’’
The Westmorland and Furness Way will be officially unveiled on 15th September as part of Sedbergh Walking & Wellbeing Festival.
Find out more, including accommodation and dining options nearby, at: westmorlandfurnessway.co.uk.
