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Best river hiking trails in Cumbria
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Best river hiking trails in Cumbria

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these trails offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water by your side.

Here are some great trails to explore in Cumbria.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Derwent Water Loop and Friars Crag from Keswick

Cumbria, England · star 5.0 (6) · 14.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 24 min

2

Easy

Ullswater Way - Dalemain Loop

Cumbria, England · star 5.0 (1) · 8.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 52 min

3

Medium

Rosthwaite - Watendlath - Grange in Borrowdale Circular Walk

Cumbria, England · star 5.0 (1) · 11.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 59 min

4

Easy

Grasmere and Rydal Water Loop from Grasmere

Cumbria, England · star 5.0 (4) · 8.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 11 min

5

Difficult

Walk the Langdale Pikes via Jack’s Rake

Cumbria, England · star 0.0 (0) · 7.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 32 min

6

Easy

Kirkby Lonsdale - Whittington and River Lune

Cumbria, England · star 4.0 (1) · 9.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 9 min

7

Easy

Killington New Bridge Walk

Cumbria, England · star 4.0 (1) · 1.0 km · Est. 13 min

8

Medium

Castle Crag from Seatoller - The Scenic Route

Cumbria, England · star 5.0 (1) · 7.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 59 min

9

Medium

Borger Dalr Geology Walk - Borrowdale

Cumbria, England · star 5.0 (1) · 8.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 9 min

10

Easy

Ulverston - Ulverston Sands - Bardsea and Birkrigg Common

Cumbria, England · star 5.0 (1) · 16.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 31 min

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Reviews for river hiking trails in Cumbria

Mark Gillgrass avatar

Derwent Water Loop and Friars Crag from Keswick

Mark · reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

Julie Cox avatar

Ullswater Way - Dalemain Loop

JCsScenicHikes · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Jumping Casper avatar

Rosthwaite - Watendlath - Grange in Borrowdale Circular Walk

Casper · reviewed over 3 years ago

star star star star star

First 1 hour till the lake/tea room is difficult but easy after. I recommend to stop at Bowder stone, you need to cross a river without bridge to enter traffic road.

Katarzyna Ofman avatar

Grasmere and Rydal Water Loop from Grasmere

Kate · reviewed 6 months ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Walk the Langdale Pikes via Jack’s Rake.

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Cumbria

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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