St Bega’s Way
A 36-mile long-distance path in Cumbria linking the Norman Priory Church of St Mary and St Bega at St Bees to the pre-Norman church of St Bega by the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake. Much of the walk lies within the Lake District National Park. With map, statistics, and GPX route file.
Statistics and Files
Grid Ref: NX 969 121
Distance: 36 miles (58 km)
Time: 15–18 hours
Duration: 3–5 days
Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps (1:25,000):
OL4 The English Lakes – North Western Area
303 Whitehaven, Workington, Cockermouth and Egremont
Summary
St Bega’s Way traverses rural West Cumbria and the magnificent scenery of the English Lake District. Designed as a three-day walk, the first day crosses the coastal plain to Moor Row and Cleator, then climbs Dent Hill (associated with Wainwright’s Coast to Coast route), which provides striking views along the Cumbrian coastline. After descending Dent Hill to Uldale and Nanycatch Gate, the stage ends at the village of Ennerdale Bridge, offering local services and accommodation.
The second day, which features the most climbing of all three days, heads along the north shore of Ennerdale Water and up onto the flank of Brandreth, descending to Borrowdale from the summit of the Honister Pass. Rosthwaite is the optimal place to make a stopover after this stage, featuring a youth hostel and various forms of accommodation in the village.
Finally, the third day goes by the side of the River Derwent and Derwentwater to Portinscale, continuing northwards towards Bassenthwaite Lake and ending through the grounds of Mirehouse to the ancient church of St Bega on the shore of the lake.