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 forms 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 aims to create safer, more accessible and sustainable travel opportunities within the Lake District National Park.
The council is currently gathering feedback from residents, businesses, visitors and route users to help shape the next stage of the project.
Current stage of the project (August 2026)
The scheme is currently in the concept design and engagement phase.
No construction timetable has been agreed, and no decisions have been made on final designs.
The council is seeking feedback from local communities, businesses, visitors and route users before considering any future steps.
Public drop-in events
Keswick Library
10 Heads Lane, Keswick, CA12 5HD
Thursday 13 August 2026
- 10.00am to 1.00pm
- 1.30pm to 4.00pm
Thirlmere Recreation Hall
Stanah Lane, Thirlmere, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4TW
Thursday 13 August 2026
- 4.30pm to 7.30pm
Paper copies of the questionnaire will also be available at Keswick Library throughout the consultation period.
Press releases
See the latest news about the scheme here:
4 August 2026 Public invited to help shape future of Thirlmere Travel Route | Cumberland Council
Can't attend an event
People who are unable to attend a drop-in session can still have their say by completing the online questionnaire.
Complete the consultation here:
Thirlmere West Public Consultation
Why is this project needed
The Thirlmere Valley is a popular route for residents and visitors travelling through the Lake District National Park.
The project aims to:
- improve safety for walkers, wheelers, cyclists and horse riders
- improve accessibility and connectivity along the route
- encourage more people to choose active and sustainable travel options
- support low-carbon tourism and reduce transport-related carbon emissions
- improve access to some of the Lake District's most popular destinations
The consultation will help the council better understand how people currently use the route, identify challenges and opportunities, and shape future improvements.
What improvements are being explored
The project team is currently developing concept designs that include:
- a quieter route along the U7003, 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 other measures to improve conditions for active travel users
These proposals are still at an early stage and may be refined following public feedback.
Will there be road closures during construction
The project is currently at an early design stage and no construction timetable has been agreed. Any future traffic management arrangements would be shared and consulted on as the project develops.
Will the project affect vehicle access
The proposals are focused on improving conditions for active travel users while maintaining connectivity through the area. Any detailed proposals will be shared as part of future engagement.
Has a final design been agreed
No. The project is still at the concept design stage and feedback gathered through the consultation will help inform future proposals.
Why is the council consulting now
Early engagement helps us understand how people currently use the route, identify local challenges and opportunities, and ensure any future proposals reflect the needs of communities, businesses, visitors and route users.
Who can take part
Anyone with an interest in the route is encouraged to take part, including local residents, businesses, visitors, walkers, wheelers, cyclists and horse riders.
How can I have my say
We are hosting a series of public drop-in sessions where people can learn more about the project, view concept designs, speak directly with members of the project team and share their feedback.
Further Information
For questions about the project, please contact the project team: [email protected].