Coast to Coast: St Bees to Kirkby Stephen - 9 Days
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour across England's breathtaking landscapes, from the rugged coastlines of St Bees to the serene valleys of the Lake District and the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales. This journey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and cultural charm. Each day presents new adventures, from exploring ancient abbeys and quaint villages to conquering challenging fells and savoring local delicacies. With comfortable accommodations and warm hospitality at every stop, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Included
8 breakfasts
One piece of luggage per person transferred from Inn to Inn, not exceeding 18kg
8 nights accommodation in hotels and guesthouses on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities where available
The hotels described are our usual accommodation, however if these are not available then alternatives are used. Rooms generally do not have baths. The main reason being that they take up a lot of space, some hotels/guesthouses may have a separate room in the house where a bath is available to guests, but in the main it is showers. Note that the sheer popularity of this tour may mean that we cannot get you into the accommodation described below for the dates of your tour. We will endeavor to get you into a similar standard of accommodation nearby, but please appreciate that there is limited accommodation. Also, although we aim to get you into accommodations with ensuite rooms this is not always possible, at a couple of places on your tour you may be sharing bathrooms, particularly if you are in a single room.
Suggested rest stops: Must be requested at the time of booking.
GRASMERE: In the heart of the Lake District National Park. Once the home to William Wordsworth. The village has narrow streets with cafes, shops and pubs. Bus service connects Grasmere with Keswick and Ambleside.
KIRKBY STEPHEN: Traditional market town of historic buildings, cobbled yards and interesting shops.
Digital information pack including route notes & maps
Emergency hotline
GPX Files
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival at St Bees
Day 1: Arrival at St Bees
Begin your adventure at the charming resort of St Bees, where the Irish Sea meets the English coast. Explore the historic St Bees Abbey Church, home to fascinating local history and the tale of a mummified knight. If time permits, venture to the nearby town of Whitehaven, renowned for its picturesque marina and intriguing museum. As the day winds down, settle into your accommodation nestled in the scenic Borrowdale Valley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding fells.
Day 2 – Day 2: St Bees to Ennerdale Bridge
Day 2: St Bees to Ennerdale Bridge
Embark on the first leg of the Coast to Coast walk, starting from the sandy shores of St Bees. Traverse the dramatic red sandstone cliffs of St Bees Head, home to England's sole breeding colony of Black Guillemots. Journey inland to conquer Dent Hill, the first of many fells, before descending to the tranquil village of Ennerdale Bridge. Enjoy a cozy stay at a family-owned hotel, where a warm meal and local ale await.
Day 3 – Day 3: Ennerdale Bridge to Borrowdale
Day 3: Ennerdale Bridge to Borrowdale
Follow the serene path along Ennerdale Water's edge, with a brief scramble under Angler's Crag. Continue to the quaint Black Sail Hut, once a shepherd's refuge. Ascend the Lakeland fells, savoring panoramic views, before descending to the enchanting Borrowdale Valley. Discover the hamlets of Seatoller, Longthwaite, Rosthwaite, and Stonethwaite, linked by charming riverside paths. Unwind in your hotel, offering stunning vistas of the local fells.
Day 4 – Day 4: Borrowdale to Grasmere
Day 4: Borrowdale to Grasmere
Immerse yourself in classic Lakeland scenery as you traverse Greenup Edge to reach the celebrated village of Grasmere. Explore the charming streets and perhaps visit Dove Cottage, the former home of poet William Wordsworth. Don't miss the chance to sample the renowned Grasmere Gingerbread. Spend the night in one of the village's welcoming accommodations.
Day 5 – Day 5: Grasmere to Patterdale
Day 5: Grasmere to Patterdale
Embark on a rewarding trek over Grisedale Pass, encircling the serene Grisedale Tarn. For the adventurous, a detour to St Sunday Crag offers breathtaking vistas of Ullswater. Alternatively, tackle the summit of Helvellyn for a more challenging route. Conclude the day in Patterdale, where a family-run guesthouse provides a cozy retreat by the southern tip of Ullswater.
Day 6 – Day 6: Patterdale to Shap
Day 6: Patterdale to Shap
Challenge yourself on the most demanding stage of the Coast to Coast walk. Ascend past the picturesque Angle Tarn, then climb to Kidsty Pike, the highest point on the route. Descend to the shores of Haweswater, a vast reservoir with a storied past. Continue to Shap Abbey, a historic site offering a glimpse into the region's rich history. Conclude the day in the village of Shap, where a welcoming guesthouse awaits.
Day 7 – Day 7: Shap to Orton
Day 7: Shap to Orton
Cross the bustling road and rail routes, then traverse the high moors and limestone scarps. Marvel at the unique geological formations before descending into the quaint village of Orton. Indulge in a visit to Kennedy's Chocolate Factory, a well-deserved treat after a day of exploration. Relax at The George Hotel (or similar), a traditional pub offering a cozy atmosphere.
Day 8 – Day 8: Orton to Kirkby Stephen
Day 8: Orton to Kirkby Stephen
Transition from Cumbria to the Yorkshire Dales, traversing farmland and moors. Pause at Sunbiggin Tarn, a haven for birdwatchers, before descending to Scandal Beck. Ascend Smardale Fell for a picturesque descent into Kirkby Stephen, a charming market town. Explore St. Hedda's Church, home to the ancient Loki Stone. Unwind in a guesthouse that exudes warmth and character.
Day 9 – Day 9: Departure from Kirkby Stephen
Day 9: Departure from Kirkby Stephen
Conclude your Coast to Coast journey in the delightful town of Kirkby Stephen. After a hearty breakfast, reflect on the memories made and the landscapes traversed. Depart with a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to the natural beauty of England.
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