Please read the WALK NOTES for general instructions and advice.
And see the Walks List page for a shorter summary list of all the walks.
Booking should be sent to Sheila on bookings@ulverstonwalkfest.com, with just the walk number and the first and surnames of all those booking-in. If you do not have a car and would welcome a lift to a walk then let Sheila know and we will try and arrange this. If you have a car and would like to car share then just follow the instructions on the walk details on the day and there is no need to tell us now. If you have a general enquire this should be directed to Martin on enquiries@ulverstonwalkfest.com
PLEASE NOTE : We might have to change some walk details before the walks.
Please check back on this page before the walk.
We will highlight any significant changes that have been made since 7th March like this.
Our 2026 walks are starting to fill up nicely.
When a walk reaches its capacity limit, and likely have some on a waiting list too, we will :-
change the text colour to red and strike-through like this.
We are very grateful when people tell us when their plans have changed
and they can no longer make a walk, in which case
a “full” walk may become available again.
SATURDAY 25th APRIL 2026
WALK 1 Sat 25th: Walking in the Footsteps of the Monks of Furness
EASY, 3½ miles (Start/End Time 11.55am – 4pm)
This walk gives a unique opportunity to visit two of the peninsula’s iconic medieval sites in one day. We will walk from Furness Abbey to Dalton Castle (the abbot’s courthouse), for a free guided tour, and back to the Abbey. Before the walk begins, there will also be a guided tour of the Abbey ruins at 12 noon (additional charge payable on the day, except for English Heritage members or anyone with proof of residence in the Barrow, Dalton or Askam areas). Meet at Furness Abbey Visitor Centre car park (OS Map: SD 2178 7194, Google Map) or else car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave there at 11.30am (parking £1/hour; the Park Run will have finished).
Led by Neil McLaughlin-Cook and Simon Hughes.
WALK 2 Sat 25th: Rusland Valley & Ospreys’ Nest
EASY, 4½ miles (Start/End Time 10am – 3pm)
A walk taking in the delights of both the Rusland Moss and Hay Bridge Nature Reserves with an opportunity to view the ospreys nesting in the Rusland Valley. Binoculars will be useful for this and other wildlife. In addition, the walk will take in a stone circle and visit a site linked to iron making from a bygone era. The route is low level on public footpaths, boardwalks, tracks and minor roads. There is one stile. It can be muddy in places, so boots are recommended. Meet at Rusland Church (OS Map: SD 3383 8968, Google Map) or car share from Stockbridge Lane car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2843 7840, Google Map), to leave at 9.30am (reasonable charges apply).
Led by Dave and Denise Robson.
WALK 3 Sat 25th: Furness Haematite Trail – Section 2 Loop Route of the full trail:
Furness Abbey – Newton – Little Urswick – Dalton – Furness Abbey
MODERATE, 8 miles, 420ft ascent (Start/End Time 10am – 3pm)
Meet at Ulverston Bus Stop on Victoria Road (OS Map: SD 2870 7810, Google Map, LA12 0BY) to catch the 9.26am 6A bus to Furness Abbey. Tickets each way £3 or bus pass. Or meet at Furness Abbey Visitor Centre free car park (OS Map: SD 2178 7194, Google Map, English Heritage) at 9.45am.
Travel back in your imagination to the sights, smells and noise of a landscape shaped by iron in the late Victorian period. A new walk for 2026, join us on this revived heritage trail, learning about the industry and visiting several iron ore sites. No car share available. Bring lunch. Dogs welcome on a lead, some stiles without dog gates.
About the trail – The Furness Haematite Trail visits the sites of over 20 mines and 2 steelworks during a 25-mile circular trail. Walking guides, containing historical information, and six shorter, circular Loop Routes (7-11 miles) maps and gpx tracks can be accessed by joining our Facebook group: Furness Haematite Trail– Maps & Guides, or from our page on Furness PathFix
Led by Linda Marshall and Simon Baxter.
(We will also be leading Furness Haematite Trail Section 4 Loop Route on Saturday 2 May. And Mick Shaw and Simon Hughes are leading Furness Haematite Trail Section 1 Loop Route on Friday 1st May.)
WALK 4 Sat 25th: Coniston Old Man
HARD, 7.1 miles, 2430 ft ascent. (Start/End time 10am – 4pm)
Meet at Tover Village Hall car park (OS Map: SD 28484 94331, Google Map, £3 per day) or car share from Stockbridge Lane car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2843 7840, Google Map) at 9am (£1.30 for day). Our route goes up a gentle ascent across the Walna Scar track to Goats Water. The path is rough going over boulders along the side of the tarn. From there it is a steep path up to Goats Hawes and a straightforward path to the crowds and cracking views (hopefully!) at the top of the Old Man (803m). The descent will be down the south ridge, avoiding the tourists, returning by the same path once we cross the Walna Scar track again.
If the weather would make a summit day unsafe, we will do a Levers Water, Copper Mines area walk. This is a full mountain day and will require everyone to have full waterproofs, suitable mountain walking footwear and warm clothing. Please contact the leader on 07917 011754 if you have any questions about the day. Walk limited to 10.
Led by Chris Harvey and Amanda Seago.
WALK 5 Sat 25th: Bat Walk down Ulverston Canal
EASY, 1½ miles, FREE. Children aged 8+ welcome with adult (Start/End Time 8.15pm – 9:45pm)
A short walk, meeting at Canal Head (OS Map: SD 2937 7859, Google Map, that’s the end near Booths) and wandering half-way down the canal and back. Lots of information at the start from bat expert and ecologist, including species found in Cumbria. Bring a torch if you have one, bat detectors will be provided so you can listen to the bats during the walk. If the weather is wet and windy the bats will not come out to feed and the walk will be cancelled. In the event of this we will endeavour to inform walkers by email and a leader will be at the meeting point.
Led by Judy Pickthall with bat expert Tamsin Douglas.
SUNDAY 26th APRIL 2026
WALK 6 Sun 26th: Millom Park and Rock Park.
EASY, 3½ miles 570 ft ascent (Start/End Time 10am – 12pm).
Come along for a lovely morning walk through woodland and young plantation, taking in the Observation Tower, which offers extensive views of Duddon and Furness, Black Combe and also the Coniston Fells. The walk ends with a bird’s eye view of a working quarry and a visit to the Millom Rock Park which offers an excellent insight into the geology of the Lake District. Time spent in the Rock Park after the walk is personal choice. Meet at the Millom Rock Park car park (OS Map: SD 1718 8332, Google Map) near School Ellis on the minor road NW of The Hill (Grid: SD 172 833 ) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave at 9:15am (parking £1/hour).
Led by Dave Robson and Judy Pickthall.
WALK 7 Sun 26th: Yewdale, Tarn Hows circuit
MODERATE, 7 miles, 820 ft ascent, (Start/End Time 10am – 3pm)
The walk makes its way via Low and High Yewdale Farms and up Tom Gill to Tarn Hows the most popular outdoor site in the Lakes. Having circled the Tarn we head down to Monk Coniston arboretum with many great trees and back to the start. Meet at Shepherds Bridge Lane, Coniston (OS Map: SD 3046 9783, Google Map) by the Sports Centre with some free parking on the road or £6 for the day in the Sports Centre, or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave there at 9.15am (parking £1/hour).
Led by John Wealthall and Martin Cooper.
WALK 8 Sun 26th: Tilberthwaite, Little Langdale and Hodge Close Quarry
MODERATE, 5½ miles, 600 ft ascent (Start/End Time 10.30am – 2.30pm)
The walk takes in traditional Lakeland farms, woodland and great views of Little Langdale Tarn and the Langdale Pikes. The leaders will explain the history of slate mining and quarrying in southern Lakeland, showing workings of 500 years ago to the last mining in 1956. A pleasant all-weather walk on good tracks (but walking boots are advised) showing the full aspects of Lakeland life, including the largest quarry in the National Park – the dramatic Hodge Close. Meet at Tilberthwaite car park (OS Map: NY 3062 0101, Google Map). Leave Coniston on A593 to Ambleside and turn left after 1½ miles, taking the narrow road for a mile to the carpark. There are 2 car parks the first is National Park (high charges usually apply but at time of writing parking was free), the second is National Trust – but very small. Alternatively, car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave there at 9.45am (parking £1/hour). If this is just car share it will be self-arranged as neither leader lives near Ulverston. If a lift is required a member of the WalkFest team will coordinate this.
Led by Dave Hughes and Stephe Cove.
WALK 9 Sun 26th: Seathwaite Tarn, Grey Friar Circuit
HARD, 8.3 miles, 2132 ft ascent, (Start/End Time 10am – 4pm)
A walk to one of the Coniston summits avoiding virtually all the tourists. Following the Reservoir track to the tarn we make our way up to the summit of Grey Friar, then contour around below Swirl How and Brim Fell to the col between the Old Man and Dow Crag, before descending to the south side of the Tarn and back down the track. Meet at the start of the Reservoir track above Seathwaite (OS Map: SD 2397 9680, Google Map) where there is limited parking, or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave there at 9am (parking £1/hour).
Led by Ryan Kearney and Neil McLaughlin-Cook.
WALK 10 Sun 26th: Local Poetry Walk
EASY, 2 miles, FREE (Start/End Time 7pm – 8.30pm)
Meet Market Street, Ulverston at the Memorial Cross (OS Map: SD 2857 7835, Google Map). Walk through the Parish Church Yard, Ford Park, the lower paths of Hoad Hill and a bit of the Canal. We will stop to read several suitable poems along the way. If you have a poem to share, please bring it. No dogs please. Walk limited to 12.
Led by Jean and Steve Povey.
MONDAY 27th APRIL 2026
WALK 11 Mon 27th: The Development of Cartmel Priory
EASY, 2 miles (Start/End Time 2pm – 4pm)
This walk will look at what the topography, surviving historic buildings and recent archaeological work in and around the village, can tell us about development of the medieval priory at Cartmel. Starting at the Cartmel Racecourse car park, we will make a circuit round the village exploring how it formed around the priory following the Dissolution. Meet at Cartmel Racecourse car park (OS Map: SD 3770 7874, Google Map, LA11 6QB) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave at 1.30pm (parking £1/hour).
Led by Dan Elsworth (of Greenlane Archaeology) and Marian Danson.
WALK 12 Mon 27th: South Ulverston Walk
MODERATE, 7 miles (Start/End 9.30am – 2pm)
Leaving Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) we head off along Lady’s Walk and up Belmont to approach the lower slopes of Hoad along ‘The Great Wall’, and then up and over the field to Newlands, crossing 2 stiles. From here we reach the A590 and carefully cross to walk along lanes to Next Ness, across fields to Canal Foot, past the GSK site to the old rail line and along this to the shore and Conishead Priory. We return along Brick Kiln Lane then cross a field to reach Saltcoats Farm, pass GSK once more and walk up the canal to Booths, Hoad Lane and back to Ford Park. Meet at Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU, parking £1/hour).
Led by Sheila Bull and Gareth Moss
WALK 13 Mon 27th: A circuit from Silverdale Station, including Haweswater and its Summer House, the Cove, Giant’s Seat and Jenny Brown’s Point.
MODERATE, 8½ miles (Start/End Time 9:30am – 3:30pm)
Starting and finishing at Silverdale Station (OS Map: SD 4761 7513, Google Map), we visit Trowbarrow Quarry and its impressive rock wall, Haweswater and its Summer House, and then along the slopes of King William’s Hill to the shore at Silverdale Cove. It’s then a lovely walk around the coast, via a field where orchids are common and a bit further on you can try sitting on the Giant’s Seat. Jenny Browns’ Point is next, with its historic tower, on the way back to the station. Meet at Ulverston Station (OS Map: SD 2847 7786, Google Map) to catch the 09:07 train (check this site nearer the time), returning on the 3:18pm or 4:17pm train, or meet at 9:30 at Silverdale Station (OS Map: SD 4761 7513, Google Map).
Led by Peter and Christine Quiggin.
WALK 14 Mon 27th: Well-Known Ulverstonians Walk
EASY, 2 miles, FREE (Start/End Time 7pm – 8.30pm)
Meet Market Street at the Memorial Cross (OS Map: SD 2857 7835, Google Map). This walk will pay homage to some well-known Ulverstonians both from history, eg Margaret Fell, and the present, eg Jess Gillam. In addition to the ‘famous’ we will learn about some local eccentrics. No dogs please. Walk limited to 12.
Led by Jean and Steve Povey.
TUESDAY 28th APRIL 2026
WALK 15 Tue 28th: Herb Walk
Easy, 2 miles (Start/End Time 10am – 12pm)
Meet at Booths steps in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2947 7867, Google Map, LA12 7LB) for our very popular stroll down the Canal with our expert herbalist.
Led by Judy Pickthall with expert input by Sarah Atkinson.
WALK 16 Tue 28th: Cartmel Fell and Church From Gummers How
MODERATE, 5½ miles, 1080 ft ascent (Start/End Time 10am – 2.30pm)
Starting from Gummers How Plantation car park (OS Map: SD 3898 8762, Google Map). A walk on bridleways and footpaths taking in the spectacular views of the Lyth and Winster Valleys and the southern Lake District. Visiting the 550-year-old St Anthony’s Church, better known as Cartmel Fell Church. We return climbing steeply at first through woods and quiet lanes. Good paths but can be slippery underfoot with an awkward stile. Meet at Gummers How Plantation car park (OS Map: SD 3898 8762, Google Map) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU, parking £1/hour) to leave at 9.30am
Led by Lindsay Harrison and Mick Shaw
WALK 17 Tue 28th: Water Yeat – Beacon Tarn Circuit
MODERATE PLUS, 8 miles, 1300 ft ascent, (Start/End 10am – 3 pm)
A walk from Water Yeat, to Beacon Tarn, Beacon Fell, Wool Knott, Tottlebank Height, Blawith Knott, returning to Water Yeat, partly on the Cumbria Way. Meet at Water Yeat by the village Hall (OS Map:SD 2882 8916, Google Map) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU, parking £1/hour) to leave at 9.30am
Led by Alan Robinson and Marian Danson.
WALK 18 Caw from Stephenson Ground. The jewel of the Duddon Valley and the best kept secret from the tourist hordes.
HARD, 5 miles, 1450 ft ascent (Start/End 10am – 3pm)
Car share from car park in Ford Park, Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU, parking £1/hour) to leave at 9am or meet at 10am at the Forestry England ‘The Hawk’ car park (OS Map: SD 2391 9197, Google Map), on the road to Stephenson Ground 420m past the cross roads. Stroll up to Stephenson Ground Farm then follow the bridleway and Broadslack Beck to the Cleft. From there it’s on up to the top of Caw (529m). This can include some easy scrambles, but any difficulties can be avoided. The descent is eastwards down to Natty Bridge and then down the forest track back to the cars.
If the weather would make a summit day unsafe, then we will go for an explore in the area west of Stephenson Ground and its historical sites. This is a full mountain day and will require everyone to have full waterproofs, suitable mountain walking footwear and warm clothing. Please contact the leader on 07917 011754 if you have any questions about the day. Walk limited to 10.
Led by Chris Harvey and Michelle Green.
WALK 19 Tue 28th: Ulverston Art and Architecture Walk
EASY, 2 miles, FREE (Start/End Time 7pm – 8.30pm)
Meet Market Street at the Memorial Cross (OS Map: SD 2857 7835, Google Map). Tonight’s walk will be mainly in town with many stops to admire art and architecture. We’ll be especially looking out for interesting little details that you might not usually notice. No dogs please. Walk limited to 12.
Led by Jean and Steve Povey.
WEDNESDAY 29th APRIL 2026
WALK 20 Wed 29th: Ulverston’s Maritime History including the Canal and Rope-Walk
EASY, 4 miles (Start/End Time 11am – 2pm)
Meet at Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU, parking £1/hour). Suitable for wheel/push chairs, except for an optional short extension to Ainslie Pier.
Led by Andrew Hudson and Martin Cooper.
WALK 21 Wed 29th: Cark, Howbarrow, Cartmel Circuit
MODERATE, 6½ miles, 700 ft ascent, (Start/End 10.30am – 3.30pm)
Leaving Cark railway station, we head into the countryside along quiet roads and tracks to the summit of Howbarrow which gives us wonderful views into the Lakes and across Morecambe Bay. We then meander our way to the historic and beautiful village of Cartmel. We will spend an hour in Cartmel where you can either visit the impressive Priory or indulge in a tipple at one of the many pubs in the village. We then make our way back to Cark where we catch the train back to Ulverston. Meet at Ulverston Station (OS Map: SD 2847 7786, Google Map) for the 10.19am train. There are several options for the return train. Or meet at 10.30am at Cark & Cartmel Station (OS Map: SD 3651 7625, Google Map) on the Lancaster-bound platform side, where there is free parking available.
Led by Simon Hughes and John Wealthall.
WALK 22 Wed 29th: A Broughton Mills Historical Round (note some similarity with Walk 34)
MODERATE, 5.6 miles. 1640 ft ascent (Start/End Time 10am – 3pm). Some might think this a MODERATE PLUS.
The walk passes bronze age, medieval, Victorian and modern agricultural and industrial features. Historical highlights include kist cairns, a cruck barn, wash-folds, shard fences and quarries. The amazing views down to the sea will be weather dependent but worth hoping for! There are two long steady climbs and several steep, loose descents. Walking poles will be helpful and there may well be wet and muddy sections. Meet at car park opposite Broughton Mills Reading Room (OS Map: SD 2224 9057, Google Map) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU, parking £1/hour) to leave at 9.30am. If this is just car share it will be self-arranged as both leaders live nearer to Broughton Mills. If a lift is required a member of the WalkFest team will coordinate this, but please let Sheila know in advance (bookings@ulverstonwalkfest.com).
Led by Stephe Cove and Dave Hughes
WALK 23 Wed 29th: Ulverston Built on Water
EASY, 2 miles, FREE (Start/End Time 7pm – 8.30pm)
Meet Market Street at the Memorial Cross (OS Map: SD 2857 7835, Google Map). We will go up Gill Banks then follow the underground waters as they meander through town towards to Bay. We will be considering how the wealth of Ulverston has historically depended on the beck and the mill race. No dogs please. Walk limited to 12.
Led by Jean and Steve Povey.
THURSDAY 30th APRIL 2026
WALK 24 Thur 30th: A tour of Medieval Ulverston
EASY, 2 miles (Start/End Time 11am – 1pm)
This walk will look at how various strands of evidence, ranging from layout of the streets, to recent archaeological work, provide an understanding into how the town of Ulverston grew during the medieval period. Starting outside the offices of Greenlane Archaeology on Lower Brook Street (OS Map: SD 2860 7838, Google Map, 10m down the alley opposite Upper Brook Street and the Chippy Bank, LA12 7EE); this is a circular walk around the town.
Led by Dan Elsworth (of Greenlane Archaeology) and Sheila Bull.
WALK 25 Thur 30th: Grange Over Sands, Brown Robin Nature Reserve and Hampsfell
MODERATE, 6 miles, 900 ft ascent. (Start/End 10.40am – 14.30pm)
Explore a holiday resort full of charm, wander through limestone woodlands with flowers and wildlife aplenty. Climb Hampsfell to take in sweeping 360-degree views. Finish the walk on Grange Promenade before catching the train back to Ulverston. Meet at Ulverston Station (OS Map: SD 2847 7786, Google Map) for the 10.19 train. There are several options for the return train. Or meet at Grange over Sands station (OS Map: SD 4119 7817, Google Map) at 10.40am.
Led by Simon Hughes and John Wealthall.
WALK 26 Thur 30th: Anticlockwise circuit from Ulverston to St John’s Church Osmotherley
MODERATE, 7½ miles, 720 ft ascent (Start/End Time 10.30am – 3.30pm)
A lovely walk, exploring the wonderfully varied countryside just north of the town. Our route takes us via Mansriggs to Broughton Beck, stopping for lunch at the lovely church of St John’s where drinks and snacks will be served, and returning on the Cumbria Way. A mixture of field and meadow paths and minor lanes. Note there are many stiles, a few of which are fairly challenging. Meet at the Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU, parking £1/hour), where the walk starts and finishes.
Led by Martin Cooper & Marian Danson.
WALK 27 Thur 30th: Black Combe
HARD, 8½ miles; 2300 ft ascent (Start/End Time 10am – 4pm)
Starting and finishing at the small car park at Whicham Church (Grid: SD 135 827), we follow a clockwise circuit exploring the most south westerly of the major lakeland fells. At 600 metres above sea level, the summit of Black Combe is lower and less rugged than the highest peaks, but its closeness to the Irish Sea offers unparallelled views. We begin by walking north to Butcher’s Breast, via a fairly low-level route taking in the historic hamlet of Whitbeck, with its old mill. We then begin our main ascent, soon turning southeast to the trig point. From the summit, we descend roughly south back to the car park. Meet at 10am at Whicham Church (OS Map: SD 1352 8269, Google Map) or car share from the Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU, parking £1/hour) to leave at 9.15am.
Led by Neil McLaughlin-Cook and Amanda Seago.
FRIDAY 1st MAY 2026
WALK 28 Fri 1st: The Life and Times of Sir John Barrow
EASY, 2 miles (Start/End Time 10am – 12 noon)
To include his birthplace, monument and mural. Starting at The Sir John Barrow Cottage (OS Map: SD 2903 7756, Google Map, Dragley Beck, LA12 0HA) where John was born in 1764, this walk will explore the life of one of Ulverston’s most famous sons and the landscape that he knew as a child. It will include the opportunity to visit the cottage, and then walk into the centre of historic Ulverston, before passing the parish church and continuing onto Hoad, to the monument built to commemorate him. It will also allow an opportunity to explore the history and archaeology of this iconic hill. The 2 miles is the one-way distance.
Led by Dan Elsworth (of Greenlane Archaeology) and Andrew Hudson.
WALK 29 Fri 1st: Furness Haematite Trail Loop Route 1:
Furness Abbey to Dock Museum with 2 return options:
Option 1. EASY, 4½ miles, 100 feet ascent. First part of the loop with the return by bus. (Start/End Time 10 am – 1pm)
Option 2. MODERATE, 9 miles, 500 feet ascent. Full Loop (Start/End Time 10am – 4pm)
A walk with a talk. The talk about the phenomenal growth of Barrow between 1850, when it was a village of around 200 inhabitants, to 1900 when it was one of the largest steel producers and shipbuilders in the world with a population of 57,000.
The walk takes in iron ore mines, Roose miner’s village, Barrow Docks, the original Furness Railway Terminus, Barrow Island tenements, Barrow Shipyard and The Dock Museum. The full loop adds Walney Channel, the sites of Barrow Haematite Steel Works, and Ormsgill quarry, with views across the Duddon Estuary. We’ll have a coffee break near Cavendish Dock in the morning and an extended time for lunch at the Dock Museum, which has a café, toilets and free entry.
Meet at 10am at Furness Abbey Amphitheatre Car Park (OS Map: SD 2186 7162, Google Map, just south of the Abbey ruins, NOT the visitor centre car park, which is 300m further north) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU, parking £1/hour) to leaving at 9.15am.
Led by Mick Shaw and Simon Hughes.
(Simon Baxter and Linda Marshall will be leading two other Haematite Trail loop route walks during WalkFest week – see Walk 3 and Walk 32.)
WALK 30 Fri 1st: Colton Church, Oxen Park, High Bethecar Farm
MODERATE, 8 miles (START/END 9.50am – 3pm)
From Colton Church we walk east through Moss Wood, then a short stretch of lane to Oxen Park, then via a footbridge and a steep climb to Abbot Park. From here a bridleway takes us to Arklid Intake and through woods up to Bethecar Moor. Dropping down to High Bethecar Farm we then walk the farm access track to Arklid Great Wood (felled following storm damage) to Stock Farm and south to Hill Park Farm where we cross fields to Bessy Bank Lane to Sales Bank Wood turning east to Beckside Farm, and up to Colton Church. There are a number of stiles, and at least one walking pole is recommended. Meet at Colton Church (OS Map: SD 3183 8606, Google Map) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave at 9.30am (parking £1/hour).
Led by Sheila Bull and Jane McQuillin.
SATURDAY 2nd MAY 2026
WALK 31 Sat 2nd: Bird Watching with 2 experts
EASY, 3½ miles (Start/End Time 9am – 12.30pm)
Meet at the free parking outside Council Depot on North Lonsdale Road, Ulverston (Grid Ref: SD 3023 7795, Google Map), 400m past Travis Perkins on the left LA12 9DZ at 9am. The route is flat with easy terrain. After crossing the rolling railway bridge at Ulverston Canal, we’ll head for Canal Foot and the Leven Estuary, looking out for breeding songbirds, wildfowl and waders. Here we should see birds moving with the incoming tide (High at 12.38pm). We’ll then walk along the road to Ulverston Slag Banks to look for high tide roosts, courting shelduck and singing warblers before returning via Sand Hall and Salt Cotes. Walk limited to 10 (and note this walk will be popular).
Led by Mike Douglas and Dave Robson.
WALK 32 Sat 2nd: Furness Haematite Trail – Section 4 Loop Route of the full trail:
Lindal – Marton – Ireleth – Lindal
MODERATE, 7½ miles, 850ft ascent (Start/End Time 10am– 3pm)
Meet at Ulverston Bus Stop on Victoria Road (OS Map: SD 2870 7810, Google Map, LA12 0BY) to catch the 9.26am 6A bus to Lindal-in-Furness. Tickets each way £3 or bus pass. Or meet at St. Peter’s Church, Lindal (OS Map: SD 2493 7581, Google Map, LA12 0LX) at 9.45am. Free on-street parking. Lindal has a wonderful model of an iron ore mine inside St. Peter’s Church and information about the industry. Time to visit the display at the end of the walk should be available before it closes at 4pm. No car share available. Bring lunch. Dogs welcome on a lead, some stiles without dog gates.
About the trail – The Furness Haematite Trail visits the sites of over 20 mines and 2 steelworks during a 25-mile circular trail. Walking guides, containing historical information, and six shorter, circular Loop Routes (7-11 miles) maps and gpx tracks can be accessed by joining our Facebook group: Furness Haematite Trail– Maps & Guides, or from our page on Furness PathFix
Led by Simon Baxter and Linda Marshall
(We will also be leading Furness Haematite Trail Section 2 Loop Route on Saturday 25 April. And Mick Shaw and Simon Hughes are leading Furness Haematite Trail Section 1 Loop Route on Friday 1st May.)
WALK 33 Sat 2nd: Witherslack, Yewbarrow & Winster Valley
MODERATE, 6½ miles, 800 feet ascent (Start/End Time 10am – 3pm).
Meet on the old A590 near the Derby Arms pub, opposite the entrance to Latterbarrow Nature Reserve (OS Map: SD 4409 8270, Google Map, LA11 6RH) or car share from Stockbridge Lane car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2843 7840, Google Map) to leave at 9.30am (cheap parking). We climb through the nature reserve and through woods, to the little-known limestone outcrop of Yewbarrow. Then we descend to the Winster Valley and get up close to a lime kiln. A short road section takes us to Witherslack Church with its amazing regency drawing-room interior. Next through open woodland, to visit The Fairy Caves. Bring a good torch to see the millions of calcite crystals light up. There are a couple of stiles to navigate and a good chance of coming across cows in fields. Preferably no dogs. Two breaks – coffee on top of Yewbarrow and lunch in Witherslack churchyard.
Led by Mick Shaw and Lindsay Harrison
WALK 34 Sat 2nd: Lickle Valley Ramble (note some similarity with Walk 22)
Moderate PLUS, 8 miles, 1000 feet ascent (Start/End Time 10am – 3.30pm).
Starting and finishing at the car park opposite Broughton Mills Reading Room (OS Map: SD 2224 9057, Google Map, LA20 6AX), we follow a clockwise circuit through an attractive but secluded part of the National Park. We’ll cross the River Lickle [twice!] and several tributary becks, and explore low fellsides, forests, moors, minor lanes and footpaths. There’s lots to see en route, including traditional lakeland farms; a medieval cruck barn; the evocative deserted farmstead of Appletree Worth; and the open moorland of Bracelet Moor. The walk offers a succession of spectacular panoramas across coast, fell and countryside. Meet at Broughton Mills or car share from Stockbridge Lane car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2843 7840, Google Map), to leave at 9.30am (reasonable charges apply).
Led by Neil McLaughlin-Cook and Gary Lingard.
SUNDAY 3rd MAY 2026
WALK 35 Sun 3rd: Plumpton Landscape – Wildlife Walk
EASY, 5 miles, (Start/End 10am – 1pm)
The influence of man on the landscape with a wildlife interest. Led by member of The Wildlife Trust. Meet at Booths steps in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2947 7867, Google Map, LA12 7LY). Binoculars useful.
Led by Jane Carson and Judy Pickthall.
WALK 36 Sun 3rd: Arnside Knott
MODERATE, 6 miles (Start/End Time 11.30am – 4.30pm)
Set at the picturesque point where the River Kent enters Morecambe Bay, Arnside makes an endearing start for this scenically varied walk. From the top of England’s smallest Marilyn (hills with a relative height of at least 150m) Arnside Knott enjoys views to rival those from many a higher Peak. Meet at Ulverston Station (OS Map: SD 2847 7786, Google Map, LA12 0DP) for the 11.11am train. There are several options for the return train. Or meet at Arnside station (OS Map: SD 4608 7882, Google Map, LA5 0HG) at 11.30am.
Led by Simon Hughes and Neil Mclaughlin-Cook.
WALK 37 Sun 3rd: Map Reading in Wild Country
MODERATE – ACTIVITY, 4 miles, 720 ft ascent (Start/End Time 11am – 3.15pm)
For those with some basic map-reading experience. Practise use of compass, measuring distance, speed of walking and use of contours. Meet at lay-by above Gawthwaite (OS Map: SD 2672 8479, Google Map) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave at 10.45am (parking £1/hour). Some quite rough terrain but nothing dangerous. Limited to 8 walkers. Contact leader on 07792 422160 if you want more details. Suitable for someone doing Gold DofE, preparing for Summer ML, or just interested in more advanced navigation techniques.
Led by Martin Cooper and Gareth Moss.
WALK 38 Sun 3rd: A circuit of Harter Fell including Hardknott Roman Fort
MODERATE PLUS (some might think Hard!), 7 miles, 1500 ft ascent (Start/End 10am – 4.30pm)
Walk to and from Hardknott Roman Fort traversing east and west sides of Harter Fell. Some rough terrain but the fort is spectacular from above, and close up, with great views of the Scafells. An unusual and attractive walk. Meet at Birks Bridge in Duddon Valley (OS Map: SD 2349 9954, Google Map) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave at 9am (parking £1/hour).
Led by Ryan Kearney and Michelle Green.
MONDAY 4th MAY 2026
WALK 39 Mon 4th: The lakes and Ponds of Broughton in Furness
EASY, 4½ miles (Start/End Time 10am – 1.30pm)
A figure of eight walk around Broughton taking in the many newly created lakes and ponds on the CGP estate. A few small hills but no stiles. Meet at 10am at the obelisk in Broughton Square (Grid Ref: SD 2122 8758, Google Map) LA20 6HY or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave at 9.30am (parking £1/hour).
Led by Stan Aspinall and Mick Shaw.
WALK 40 Mon 4th: Winster Valley Bluebells from Cartmel Fell CHurch
MODERATE, 6½ miles (Start/End Time 10am – 2.30pm)
The walk explores the delightful but often overlooked Winster Valley with a mix of woodland trails, with some moderate uphill gradients, open fields and lovely views at a time when the bluebells should be at their best. A few brief sections on lanes are necessary. The walk finishes with a short climb across the front of Ravens Barrow, a viewpoint from which one can appreciate the whole of the valley and beyond to Morecambe Bay. Meet at 10am at Cartmel Fell Church (OS Map: SD 4165 8799, Google Map) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave at 9.30 am (parking £1/hour).
Led by Chris Baalham and Peter Quiggin.
WALK 41 Mon 4th: Walking the Medieval “High Road to Dalton”
MODERATE, 8 miles, 900 ft ascent (Start/End Time 9.30am – 3pm)
In medieval times, Hawkshead had no burial place, and so bodies of the deceased would be carried almost 20 miles via the “high road to Dalton”, for burial in Dalton parish church. This walk is based on the final part of this “coffin route”. Starting from The Gill in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2846 7854, Google Map), we head uphill, via attractive paths and lanes, to Horrace, where we join the “high road”. We then follow the coffin route as close as we can, emerging in the heart of the “medieval capital of Furness”. En route, we’ll hear mysterious tales from the past, and have great views over countryside, reservoirs and the coast. Before taking a bus or train back to Ulverston, we’ll recreate the medieval tradition of an “arval feast” courtesy of the Friends of Dalton Castle, who will serve us cakes and other refreshments inside the medieval building. Meet at The Gill in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2846 7854, Google Map) at 9.30am.
Led by Neil McLaughlin-Cook and Jane McQuillin.
WALK 42 Mon 4th: Wetherlam Fell from Coniston
HARD, 7 miles, 2460 ft ascent (Start/End Time 9.45am – 4.30pm)
A lovely walk up Wetherlam, Coniston Old Man’s lesser known but equally rewarding near-neighbour, giving superb and even better views to the Langdale Pikes and the central fells. Descending along the Black Sails ridge. This gives lovely and quiet routes for both ascent and descent, using the Ladstones and Black Sails ridges (nothing scary), and still takes us through the Coppermines valley past several mining history sites. Meet at 9:45am by the Tourist Information Centre in Coniston main car park (OS Map: SD 3034 9756, Google Map, LA21 8EH) or car share from Ford Park car park in Ulverston (OS Map: SD 2923 7872, Google Map, LA12 7JU) to leave at 9am (parking £1/hour).
Led by Martyn Dodson and Gary Lingard.