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Distington

The best walks and hikes around Distington

4.5

(461)

5,501

hikers

273

hikes

Hiking around Distington offers a variety of routes, primarily featuring coastal paths and views across the Irish Sea. The terrain includes sections along cycle paths, harbour areas, and elevated points providing distant views of the Scottish Coast and the Isle of Man. While some routes follow established paths, others involve more challenging ascents and longer distances. The landscape is characterized by its proximity to the coast, with moderate elevation changes across the trails.

Best hiking trails around Distington

  • The most popular hiking route is Whitehaven Harbour loop from Lowca, a 5.8 miles (9.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 29 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers views of Whitehaven Harbour.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Workington Cycle Path – Stone Sculpture of a Woman loop from Parton, a moderate 8.7 miles (14.0 km) path. This route incorporates sections of the Workington Cycle Path and coastal scenery.
  • Local hikers also love the View of the Scottish Coast – View of the Isle of Man loop from Parton, a 13.0 miles (20.9 km) trail leading through coastal areas, often completed in about 5 hours 34 minutes. This difficult route provides expansive views across the sea.
  • Hiking around Distington is defined by coastal paths, harbour views, and distant sea vistas. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
  • The routes in Distington are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 5,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Distington's varied terrain.

Last updated: June 26, 2026

3.7

(3)

22

hikers

#1.

Waggon Way Coastal Path – Whitehaven Harbour loop from Parton

9.29km

02:29

110m

110m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Distington

MTB Trails around Distington

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Cycling around Distington

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Tips from the Community

Alice Baddeley
November 23, 2023, Waggon Way Coastal Path

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.

2

0

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.

1

0

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.

1

0

The 9ft crucifix was erected 7 years ago by a local man (without advance planning permission) in memory of his wife whose ashes he included in the design. He affixed the cross to the existing stone seat. The Council then approved it retrospectively after a wave of both support and opposition - the vote was five to four.

2

0

Pretty wooded cycle path outside Workington

2

1

In 17th-century England, only Bristol and London were busier ports than Whitehaven and it continued to be an important coal port well into the 20th century. Today Cumbria's largest coastal settlement is an attractive town with many amenities. Interestingly, Whitehaven Harbour was the site of one of the last attempted invasions of Britain when John Paul Jones (no, not the Led Zeppelin bassist) landed 30 armed men here on 23rd April 1778.

1

0

Lovely bike path that avoids the main road and gives you views across the sea.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are there in Distington?

Distington offers a wide selection of hiking routes, with nearly 300 trails available on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance hikes, primarily featuring coastal paths and views across the Irish Sea.

Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Distington?

Yes, Distington has over 120 easy hiking routes, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed stroll. These often feature coastal paths and gentle terrain, making them accessible for various fitness levels.

Can I find long-distance hiking routes around Distington?

Absolutely. For those seeking a longer challenge, routes like the View of the Scottish Coast – View of the Isle of Man loop from Parton cover over 13 miles (20.9 km) and offer expansive sea views. There are 19 difficult routes available for experienced hikers.

Are there any circular walks available in Distington?

Many of the trails in Distington are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Whitehaven Harbour loop from Lowca, which offers scenic harbour views, and the Workington Cycle Path – Stone Sculpture of a Woman loop from Parton.

What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around Distington?

Hiking around Distington is characterized by its coastal proximity. You can expect stunning views of the Irish Sea, distant glimpses of the Scottish Coast and the Isle of Man, and sections along cycle paths and harbour areas. The landscape features moderate elevation changes, offering diverse perspectives.

Are the hiking trails in Distington dog-friendly?

Many trails in Distington are suitable for dogs, especially those along the coastal paths and cycle routes. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in busy areas, and to check specific route details for any restrictions.

Are there family-friendly walks, possibly with pushchair access?

Yes, Distington offers several family-friendly options. Many of the easier coastal paths and sections of the Workington Cycle Path are relatively flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for families with children and potentially pushchairs. Look for routes marked as 'easy' for the most accessible options.

What are some interesting places to see or landmarks near the hiking trails?

While hiking around Distington, you can explore several natural attractions. Nearby highlights include Ennerdale Water, a beautiful lake, and various summits offering panoramic views such as Crag Fell Summit and Grike Summit Cairn. The area also features unique spots like Robin Hood's Chair.

Is public transport available to access hiking trails in Distington?

Distington and nearby towns like Whitehaven and Workington are served by local bus routes. Some trails, particularly those starting from town centers or along the coast, may be accessible via public transport. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and route maps for specific access points.

Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Distington?

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages surrounding Distington, such as Whitehaven, Workington, and Parton, which serve as common starting points for many trails. Specific car parks may be available near popular trailheads, often with a small fee. Always check local signage for parking regulations.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Distington?

The best time for hiking in Distington is typically from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, but spring and autumn provide pleasant conditions with fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colours, especially along the coast.

Are there any options for winter hiking in Distington?

Winter hiking in Distington is possible, though conditions can be colder and wetter. The coastal paths generally remain accessible, but some higher or more exposed routes may be challenging due to wind or icy conditions. Always check weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out in winter.

Are there cafes or pubs near the hiking trails in Distington?

Yes, the towns and villages around Distington, such as Whitehaven and Workington, offer a selection of cafes and pubs where you can refuel before or after your hike. Many coastal routes pass through or near these settlements, providing convenient stops for refreshments.

What do other hikers say about the trails in Distington?

The hiking trails in Distington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse coastal scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to enjoy views of the Irish Sea and beyond.

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