Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Trail
The Keswick to Threlkeld trail re-opened in December 2020, 5 years after Storm Desmond’s catastrophic impact on the Lake District and Keswick.
Two bridges have been replaced and Rawsome’s bridge has been repaired, and the trail has been strengthened and made more resilient to future flood events. Along the trail, you’ll find information panels to tell you about the nature and wildlife here, as well as the history of the railway and the bobbin mill. The former boardwalk has been replaced by a tunnel.
The trail starts close to Keswick Town Centre, with a pleasant walk through Fitz Park to reach it. Just beyond Keswick Leisure Pool (where you’ll find a P&D car park and 2 disabled spaces), close to Fitz Park and runs for 5km to Threlkeld, which is a round route of 10km.
The trail has been designed and created as a multi-use trail suitable for walkers, runners, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, wheelchairs and cyclists and to encourage everyone to get outdoors and enjoy it.
It is part of the 137-mile C2C cycle route running from St Bees on the west coast, to Whitby on the east coast. It can be very busy, so courtesy and consideration for other users is essential to keep a harmonious atmosphere!
- The entire trail is smooth-surfaced with tarmac and gradients are very low.
- At the Threlkeld end, there is a zigzag path to lessen the gradient further, and there is level access at the Keswick Leisure Centre end.
- You’ll find regular seats along the route for resting and enjoying the view, with a picnic area close to the entrance of the tunnel.
- There are temporary toilets at the former Keswick railway station, including an accessible toilet.
Linking with the trail, Keswick Museum are running a special exhibition: ‘Rails Trails and Steamy Tales’ telling the story of the line from its construction in the steam age, to its present use. The museum is a great addition to your day and is close to the start of the trail at Fitz Park.