Strenuous Leader: Rowland Nock Distance: 11 miles
From Cartmel we head out east past the Priory on the Cistercian Way climbing Hampsfell (220 m) with its wonderful observation tower giving panoramic views, including the Kent Estuary, Morecambe Bay, and beyond. We then wend our way round Cartmel near Allithwaite heading on past Birkby Hall and eventually picking up the Cumbrian Coastal Way.
We then head up gently onto How Barrow (170m) again giving spectacular views this time including Cartmel Sands to which the waters of Lake Windermere flow via the River Leven. We will carry on along the Cumbrian Coastal Path a little way eventually returning back to Cartmel via Speel Bank, Tram Wood and Park Wood. Finally, exiting Park Wood back to the car park via the race course. Hopefully, there will time for some well earned tea and tiffin or even a pint!
Moderate Leader: Peter Denton Distance: 9 miles
Today we start this walk crossing over the racecourse into the Park Wood. Up to Well Knowe then on to Wall Nook and Over Ridge. Then head for Burns Farm where we join the Cumbria Coastal Way up to Speel Bank then we head down Ellerside. Then back on to the Cumbria Coastal Way and back to Cartmel.
Leisurely Leader: Margaret Black & Stephen Balenski Distance: 7 miles
We start with a level walk across the racecourse following the Cistercian Way, turning off at Low Bank farm to continue over mainly gentle rolling fields and pasture land. There are a few stiles stepped into the boundary walls along the way. After a short stretch of road there is a very gradual climb along the side and over the crest of Hampsfield Fell, with good views of the Kent Estuary and Morecambe Bay. However, before rejoining the Cistercian Way to walk downhill back to Cartmel, if weather conditions allow, a very short diversion to an observation tower known as the Hospice on top of the fell gives a wonderful panoramic view of the area.
Easy Leader: Sue Daniels Distance : About 6.5 miles
This walk is generally easy walking and has gentle climbs and descents with wonderful views of Coniston Fells and the Leven Estuary. The walk leaves from Cartmel’s racecourse and climbs steadily through woodland and over pastures. It continues to Speel Bank, a sylvan, isolated area, where there is a deer farm. The route goes on below Mount Barnard and along the Cistercian Way to finish back at Cartmel for some well deserved refreshments.