Latrigg
Important Note for Visitors: The Current Route Is Not Fully Accessible
Latrigg is one of the most popular low level fells in the Lake District thanks to its proximity to Keswick. Whilst an ascent of the small fell is still possible, and very much an enjoyable walk, the popular route described here is currently not accessible all the way around.
Storm Desmond
In 2015, Storm Desmond wreaked havoc in Cumbria and destroyed two bridges over the river on the Keswick to Threlkeld former railway path. This was a devastating blow to the local community, many of whom used this route for various recreational purposes.
In the aftermath of Storm Desmond, understandably, the energy and funding for repairs focused on reconnecting vital transport links, such as the A591 by Thirlmere, and creating a replacement to the damaged bridge at Pooley Bridge. Sadly, resources were limited and for users of the old railway path this meant there was a long wait before repairs could be considered.
Fundraising Efforts
A considerable effort was put into fundraising efforts and eventually, by July 2018 enough money had been raised through community events and successful government funding bids to start work on finally reconnecting the path. However, the process has been far from smooth. Repair and reconstruction plans unveiled by the Lake District National Park Authority revealed the intent to use asphalt on the surface of the path to make it more accessible.
This was widely opposed by members of the public and the campaign charity Friends of the Lake District who were concerned the plans would make the area appear less rural and potentially harm local wildlife. It was considered so controversial that Keswick Town Council unanimously passed a vote of no confidence in the LDNPA in October 2019.
Reconstruction Work
As of December 2019, the reconstruction work is still going ahead as planned. Not only will the project replace the two bridges that were destroyed in the storm, but an old railway tunnel at the Keswick end of the path that was buried in the 1970s will be excavated and reopened. It is hoped that all the works will be completed by the end of 2020, but the LDPNA plan on reopening sections as they are completed.
Be Sure to Research a Suitable Alternative Path Down, as the Below Route is NOT Accurate
In the meantime, you can still continue to enjoy a walk up to the summit of Latrigg, but you will need to return via one of the many paths through woodland south of the summit, keeping north of the river Greta until you return to Keswick.
Often referred to as "Keswick’s fell" due to its proximity to the town, a circular walk up Latrigg takes in part of the Cumbria Way and the old railway line that ran between Penrith and Cockermouth.
The views from the top of Latrigg are delightful, taking in the town, Derwent Water, and the surrounding fells, whilst the summit is also a fabulous place for picnic.
The Route
View of Keswick & Derwent Water from Latrigg
The route starts at the beginning of the Bridleway also known as Spoonygreen Lane at Grid Ref NY 267 241. This leads you over the A66 via a bridge and onto a track that can get very muddy and slippery during wet weather. This part of the route is along the Cumbria way.
There are various turnings off into Latrigg woods, but stick to the Cumbria Way until you reach rid Ref NY 276 253, where there is a turning on your left up a fairly steep slope. This route is passable for all terrain pushchairs, but at this point you may need two of you to lift the pushchair over some of the more bumpy ground. This path zig zags up the fell to the summit.
The path continues along the top of the summit towards the north west and back down the fell, joining a track at Grid Ref NY 285 248. Turn right onto this track and continue on until you meet the disused railway line at Grid Ref NY 298 247. Turn right onto the railway line and this well maintained level path takes you back into Keswick, ending at the Leisure Centre.
Useful Information
Parking: There is some roadside parking along Brundholme Road in Keswick with additional pay and display parking available further down the road at the leisure centre
Start Point: Grid Ref NY 267 241, where there is a turning from Brundholme Road onto a Bridleway (Spoonygreen Lane)
Summit: Grid Ref NY279 247; 368 metres above sea level
Distance: Approximately 5.5 miles
Terrain: Mixture of gravel track, grassy slopes, and flat well maintained paths
Total Time (Ascent & Descent): 3 - 4 hours
Suitable For: Adults with moderate fitness; All-terrain pushchairs with two adults; Older children