Most people tackle the Coast to Coast from west to east, mainly because this will allow them to walk ‘with the weather at their back’ (because most of the time the winds blow off the Atlantic from the west, so by walking from west to east you will have the wind blowing with you rather than against you). It is usual for people to attempt it in one go, though a number of companies (see pp22-3) offer the chance of tackling it in two stages, dividing the walk at Kirkby Stephen or Keld.
Part 4 of this book has been written from west to east (though there is of course nothing to stop you from tackling it in the opposite direction, and there are advantages in doing so – see opposite). To help you plan your walk look at the planning map (see opposite inside back cover) and the table of village/town facilities (on pp28-9), which gives a run-down on the essential information you will need regarding accommodation possibilities and services. You could follow one of the suggested itineraries (see boxes pp32-3) which are based on preferred type of accommodation and walking speeds. There is also a list of recommended linear day and weekend walks below which cover the best of the Coast to Coast path, all of which are well served by public transport. The public transport map is on p43 and the services table on pp44-5.
Once you have an idea of your approach turn to Part 4 for detailed information on accommodation, places to eat and other services in each village and town on the route. Also in Part 4 you will find summaries of the route to accompany the detailed trail maps.
WHICH DIRECTION?
There are a number of advantages in tackling the path in a west to east direction, not least the fact that the prevailing winds will, more often than not, be behind you. If you are walking alone but wouldn’t mind some company now and again you’ll find that most of the other Coast to Coast walkers are heading in your direction too. However, there is also something to be said for leaving the Lake District – many people’s favourite part of the British Isles, let alone the favourite part of the path – until the end of the walk.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
The itineraries in the boxes opposite and above are based on different accommodation types – camping, hostels/bunkhouses/camping barns, and B&Bs – with each one divided into three alternatives depending on your walking speed (relaxed, medium and fast). They are only suggestions so feel free to adapt them. Don’t forget to add your travelling time before and after the walk.
Note: Borrowdale refers to Longthwaite, Rosthwaite & Stonethwaite and Clay Bank Top includes Urra & Great Broughton.
SIDE TRIPS
The Coast to Coast path is long enough and few walkers upon it will be tempted by side trips that involve yet more walking. Yet the path cuts through possibly the richest trekking territory in England, and there are plenty of opportunities for short (or long) diversions off the trail should you wish. Such side trips are beyond the scope of this book but a quick glance at an Ordnance Survey map will give you some idea of the alternative trails and side trips available.
Wainwright’s series of guides to Lakeland fells describes other walks around the Lake District in further detail. Certainly an ascent of some of the hills in the area gives an entirely different perspective of the Lakeland landscape. Old favourites include Great Gable, Striding Edge on Helvellyn, High Street and England’s highest mountain Scafell Pike (978m).
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