Coast to Coast

‘Surely there cannot be a finer itinerary for a long-distance walk! … The countryside traversed is beautiful almost everywhere, yet extremely varied in character, with mountains and hills, valleys and rivers, heather moors and sea-cliffs combining in a pageant of colourful scenery.’

This is Alfred Wainwright's introduction to his book, A Coast to Coast Walk, published in 1973. Since uttering those words, thousands of walkers have taken his advice and walked the route which he made famous. His original guide followed the style of his earlier series of books entitled "A Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells", which he wrote over 13 years from 1952. It included recommendations on how to break up the walk alongside a series of beautiful illustrations. 

But who is Alfred Wainwright? Originally qualified as an accountant, Wainwright visited the Lake District for the first time in 1930, and climbed to the summit of Orrest Head, about which he said "those few hours cast a spell which changed my life". He later fulfilled his dream of moving to the Lake District and began his literary career, starting with his pictorial guides. He was a passionate man who cared deeply about fell-walking. 

Today the Wainwright Society are responsible for the maintenance of the Coast to Coast route, and aim to keep Wainwright's passion alive. Wainwright's ashes are also scattered at Haystacks, a highlight of the Coast to Coast route whilst walking from Ennerdale to Rosthwaite. 

Q: How far in advance do I need to book?

A: We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised as Wainwright’s Coast to Coast is extremely popular, especially over April/May and September. You will find up to date availability on our website, and we will always try and accommodate your plans.

Q: Which itinerary should I take?  

A: We offer several different itineraries so that all levels of walkers can tackle this mighty trail. So, basically, the answer is, it depends on your level of fitness. However, you can read a far more extensive response to this particular question on our blog post- How many days to walk the Coast to Coast.

Q: When is the best time of year to walk the Coast to Coast?

A: Traditionally April/May has always been the most popular time of year because the theory goes that the weather is better. This said any time between late March and October offers a beautiful experience.