Cumberland Council is progressing early design work on the proposed Thirlmere West Active Travel Route, aimed at improving connections for walkers, wheelers, cyclists and horse riders through the Thirlmere Valley.
The project is part of the wider See More Lake District Cycling programme and focuses on a 5.3-mile (8.5km) section between the existing bridleway at Wythburn and the B5322 near Legburthwaite. The route forms part of National Cycle Network Route 6 and is intended to create safer, more accessible and sustainable travel opportunities within the Lake District National Park.
Proposals currently being explored include:
- A quiet route along the U7003, which is a minor road, on the western side of Thirlmere between Wythburn and Raven Crag.
A new signalised crossing on the A591 near Bridge End Farm for walkers, wheelers, cyclists and horse riders. - Improvements to bus stop access near the A591/U7003 junction.
- Surface improvements on sections of the U7003 and measures to improve conditions for active travel users.
At this stage, no construction timetable has been agreed. The council is developing concept designs and gathering feedback from residents, businesses, visitors and route users before any future decisions are made. Feedback will be gathered through an online survey, paper questionnaire and a series of public engagement events.
The aim is to understand how people currently use the corridor, identify challenges and opportunities, and help shape future improvements that support safer and more enjoyable journeys through the Thirlmere Valley.
Potential benefits include improved connectivity between communities, safer crossings, increased opportunities for physical activity, support for low-carbon tourism and better access to some of the Lake District’s most popular destinations. The project also supports wider ambitions to encourage more sustainable travel and reduce tourism-related carbon emissions.
Cumberland Council’s Assistant Director for Highways & Transport, Karl Melville, said:
"The Thirlmere Valley is one of the most scenic and well-used areas of the Lake District, and we want to ensure people can enjoy it safely and sustainably.
"These proposals are still at an early stage, and no decisions have been made. This consultation is about listening to local communities, visitors and route users so that any future improvements reflect the needs of those who know the area best.
"We would encourage everyone with an interest in the route to take part and help us shape the next stage of the project."
To gather views, the project team will be hosting a series of public engagement events where people can view the concept designs, speak with the project team and share their feedback.
The events will take place on:
- Thursday 13 August 2026 - Keswick Library, 10 Heads Lane, Keswick, CA12 5HD from 10.00am – 1.00pm and 1.30pm – 4.00pm.
- Thursday 13 August 2026 - Thirlmere Recreation Hall, Stanah Lane, Thirlmere, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4TW from 4.30pm – 7.30pm.
Paper copies of the questionnaire will be available in Keswick Library to complete for the duration of the consultation.
Those unable to attend can still have their say by completing the online questionnaire at: https://consult.cumberland.gov.uk/thirlmere-west-public-consultation. The consultation will also be available in paper format for anyone who prefers to respond that way.