Walking
Some of the best and most scenic routes for walking in the Lake District National Park are easily accessible from the railway and its stations. Our unspoilt rural location means that you can enjoy beautiful views around every bend in the footpath. Whether you are an experienced walker or just enjoy a short stroll, there are plenty of lovely walks that can be combined with a trip on the railway for a unique day out.
Lord Wakefield was inspired to commission the legendary fell-walker Alfred Wainwright to prepare a unique printed walking guide for the railway. Titled, 'Walks from Ratty', this booklet is available to purchase in our railway gift shops and online.
Take a look below for some suggested walks from Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway's stations. Please take an OS map (available to purchase in our shops) with you, check train times, and ensure that you are suitably equipped for a walk. We would suggest appropriate clothing, walking boots, and plenty of water. If you are lucky, you may even need some suncream! Please also check the length of walks beforehand and make sure that they are suitable for your level of ability. You may find the following websites useful:
https://www.alltrails.com/en-g...
http://www.gps-routes.co.uk/ro...
Walks from Ravenglass Station
- Roman Bath House & Muncaster Castle- Moderate difficulty, around 5km in total : Ravenglass to Muncaster Castle | Map, Guide - Cumbria, England | AllTrails
- Ravenglass Beach- A short 5-minute walk to the beach from our Ravenglass station, offering stunning views of the estuary. A particularly special spot to watch the sunset or sunrise.
- Ravenglass to Dalegarth for Boot via Muncaster Fell- A 7-mile route requiring a good level of fitness. Why not combine this route with a journey on the train? Travelling up the line before walking back over Muncaster Fell. A description of the route can be found here: Ravenglass to Eskdale Walk Route (gps-routes.co.uk)
- Eskdale TRail - The Eskdale Trail offers a fantastic adventure for the entire family, set amidst the stunning landscapes of this picturesque western valley. Begin your journey by boarding the iconic La'al Ratty train from Ravenglass to Dalegarth. From there, follow the distinctive metal fingerposts that guide you along the newly established Eskdale Trail back to Ravenglass station. Approximately 7/8 miles. Allow 3-4 hours. The name “Eskdale TRail” cleverly emphasizes the "Rail" connection to the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. You can enhance your experience by picking up a special trail pack, available for purchase at the stations. The pack includes paper and crayons for collecting brass rubbings from the 22 fingerposts scattered along the trail, adding an interactive element for children and adults alike.
Walks from Dalegarth for Boot Station
- St Catherine's Church and the Stepping Stones via Girder Bridge-a short walking loop from Dalegarth Station, taking you to St Catherine's Church and across the River Esk. Please use the stepping stones with caution. If they are unsafe for use, please use Girder Bridge. A map of this route can be found here: Miles Without Stiles 19: Dalegarth to St Catherine's Church, Eskdale : Lake District National Park
- Stanley Ghyll Force waterfall, including Anne's Walk-Around 2 miles with some steep and even terrain. An overview of this route can be found here: Stanley Ghyll Force, Eskdale – Family Walks and Pubs in the Lake District (family-walks-pubs-lake-district.com)
- The Eskdale Mill-a short stroll along the road into Boot village brings you to the historic Eskdale Mill. The mill is well worth a visit on your day out in Eskdale. Find out more here: Eskdale Mill
- Eskdale TRail - The Eskdale Trail offers a fantastic adventure for the entire family, set amidst the stunning landscapes of this picturesque western valley. Begin your journey by boarding the iconic La'al Ratty train from Dalegarth to Ravenglass. From there, follow the distinctive metal fingerposts that guide you along the newly established Eskdale Trail back to Dalegarth station. Approx 7 miles. Allow 3-4 hours.
Walks from Intermediate Stations
- Blea Tarn - Beckfoot station
- Japanese Gardens ( currently closed due to forestry works)
- Muncaster Fell Walk
- Pick up the Eskdale TRail from selected station stops.
