The best walks and hikes around Winscales
4.6
(380)
3,905
hikers
234
hikes
Hiking around Winscales, located in Cumberland, England, offers diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by a grassy, hilly landscape with numerous fells, including Winscales Hill at 140 meters. Coastal paths provide different scenery with views of the Scottish Coast, while the nearby River Derwent adds to the natural features.
Best hiking trails around Winscales
- The most popular hiking route is The UFO Sculpture – Navvies Bridge loop from Workington, a 6.1 miles (9.8 km) trail that…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.6
(5)
26
hikers
9.84km
02:36
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
19
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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22
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
13
hikers
22.5km
05:59
230m
230m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
13
hikers
7.64km
01:59
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Workington and its beach is one of the end points on the Reivers Route
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A narrow cycle path runs along the sailing boat marina.
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Navvies Bridge is a modern pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Derwent in Workington, Cumbria, built in 2011 to replace an earlier bridge that was destroyed in the 2009 floods. The new bridge is designed as a twin-ribbed untied bowstring arch of steel, with a span of 84.8 metres and a deck width of 3 metres — almost double the width of the original bridge.
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Siddick Ponds is a valuable nature reserve in Cumbria, designated as both a Local Nature Reserve (LNR) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The area comprises two large ponds—one freshwater and one brackish—surrounded by extensive reedbeds, creating a unique ecological combination within the region. This diverse habitat makes Siddick Ponds one of Cumbria's most important birdwatching areas, hosting a diverse community of bird species year-round.
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Navvies Bridge is a new steel bow bridge, designed collaboratively with input from local residents. It's for pedestrian and cyclist access between the Northside housing area and the town centre. The previous bridge was destroyed by floods in 2009.
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The Waggon Way is part of NCN 72 (Hadrian's Cycle Way). It's a lovely traffic-free path which literally hugs the coast. Good smooth surface and great views throughout.
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Bike path with a generally good surface between Whitehaven in the south and Parton to the north. The section is about 2km long with great sea views all along it.
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I had a lovely breakfast sandwich and a cup of tea at the half way (ish) point on my Workington to St Bees Cumbria Coastal Way section at a café called Anna's Bar & Kitchen on Whitehaven Harbour, right on the Millennium Promenade.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Winscales?
Winscales offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 230 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy coastal strolls to more challenging fell ascents, catering to different fitness levels.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking near Winscales?
The region around Winscales boasts diverse landscapes. You'll find a characteristic 'grassy, hilly landscape' with numerous fells, including Winscales Hill. There are also scenic coastal paths offering views of the Scottish Coast, and the River Derwent adds to the natural beauty with its river valleys.
Are there easy hiking routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Winscales has many easy routes. Over 120 of the trails are classified as easy, making them suitable for beginners or families. For example, the Workington Beach – View of the Scottish Coast loop from Workington is an accessible coastal path offering expansive views.
Are there more challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. While many routes are accessible, there are also more challenging options, with 12 trails classified as difficult. These often involve exploring multiple fells, such as the multi-fell hikes mentioned in the region, which can extend beyond 5 hours or involve significant elevation gain, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Winscales?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Winscales, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from coastal paths to fells, and the stunning views, particularly those of the Scottish Coast.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, many routes around Winscales are circular. Popular options include coastal loops like the The UFO Sculpture – Navvies Bridge loop from Workington, which features coastal views and local landmarks. There are also fell-based circular routes for those looking to explore the hills.
Are there any waterfalls or interesting natural monuments to see?
Yes, you can discover natural features like Holme Force (waterfall). Other natural monuments include the Fellbarrow Summit, offering impressive views, and the Confluence of the Rivers Cocker and Derwent.
What kind of landmarks or points of interest can I explore along the trails?
Beyond natural beauty, you can find interesting landmarks. The The UFO Sculpture – Navvies Bridge loop from Workington passes by local landmarks. Near Loweswater, you might discover the Holme Wood Bothy, a rustic accommodation option. The Siddick Ponds Nature Reserve also offers a point of interest for nature lovers.
Are there any hikes that offer views of the Scottish Coast?
Definitely. Several coastal paths provide stunning views across the sea towards the Scottish Coast. Routes like the View of the Scottish Coast – Workington Beach loop from Workington are specifically highlighted for these vistas.
Are the hiking trails in Winscales dog-friendly?
Many of the trails around Winscales, especially the coastal paths and lower fell routes, are suitable for dogs. It's always recommended to keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock or in nature reserves, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
What is the best time of year to hike in Winscales?
Winscales offers hiking opportunities year-round. Spring and summer provide pleasant weather for coastal walks and fell ascents. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the landscape, while winter can offer dramatic views, especially from fells like Fellbarrow, though conditions may require more experience and appropriate gear.
Are there any specific fells I can hike near Winscales?
Yes, the region is known for its fells. Winscales Hill itself is a 'Tump', and nearby fells like Fellbarrow (1,364 feet/416 meters) offer impressive views. Other fells in the vicinity include Low Fell, Longlands Fell, Brae Fell, Great Sca Fell, Meal Fell, and Great Cockup, providing a varied hiking experience.
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