Itinerary Planner

Work up an Appetite on the foodie Furness Peninsula

Combine a visit to this foodie hub with a 9km ramble and you can really have your cake and eat it…guilt free! This area of Morecambe Bay boasts more than just picture postcard seaside towns. A flock of foodie businesses have established themselves here, drawn by the lush landscape and mild climate that helps to raise and graze some of Cumbria’s signature produce. For a real signature gourmet experience Simon Rogan’s restaurants L’Enclume and Rogan and Co, in Cartmel village are a must.

Day 1

Morning

If arriving by Avanti West Coast at Lancaster station, take a Northern train to Grange-over-Sands station (24 mins). Leaving the train at Grange over Sands, take time to explore this Edwardian seaside town and its extensive promenade. If you skipped breakfast, never fear, there are plenty of award-winning eateries you can call into to fuel up. The Cistercian Way long distance path leaves Grange-over-Sands opposite the rail station and heads up through Eggerslack Woods over onto Hampsfell before dropping down into Cartmel. A 4.5km walk in total. Hampsfell is crowned by ‘Hampsfell Hospice’, a sturdy limestone tower monument, and offers one of the finest viewpoints of all the foothills of the outlying southern Lakeland fells.

Lunch

Explore the little Café’s of Cartmel including Cartmel Village Shop, known as the “home of sticky toffee pudding”

Afternoon

Retrace your steps back to the Edwardian elegance of Grange-over-sands and explore the boutique shops that line the streets that wind up from the promenade.

Evening

Take your pick of the local eateries, or if you pre-book you could get a taxi back to Cartmel for a delectable evening at L’Enclume, one of the top five restaurants in the UK. Also Michelin starred is Rogan and Co, L’Enclumes sister restaurant which offers a more casual dining experience.

Overnight

Grange-Over-Sands has a range or hotels, self-catering and B&B’s suitable for all tastes and budgets.

Day 2

Morning

Catch the Train from Grange-Over-Sands to Cark-in-Cartmel village from which it’s an easy 15min stroll up the road to Holker Hall and Gardens.

Holker Hall is a fascinating historic house where the elegance and loveliness of the Victorian era combine with the warmth and welcome of a much-loved family home. The hall is set in 25 acres of romantic formal & woodland gardens and ancient parkland, with the famous herd of Menil fallow deer, showcasing nature at it’s most graceful.

Holker's Food Hall is worth a forage, look out for the seasonal meats and cheese from the estate, perfect if you are looking to take a taste of the Lakes home.

Lunch

The Courtyard Cafe offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere and specialises in local and seasonal food. Sample the superb range of daily specials and mouth-watering cakes and biscuits. The Ilex Brasserie serves pre-booked lunch and evening meals.

Afternoon

When your appetite is sated take the pleasant walk back to the station and continue your adventure or head home.

Weather

The weather in the Lake District can change quickly, clear morning skies can rapidly give way to rain, sleet or even snow so be prepared! Changes in weather can dramatically alter the difficulty of a route so please consider this before setting off. Call 0844 846 2444 to check the forecast.

Practical information

Appropriate clothing can make all the difference. It is important to be warm, comfortable and dry when out exploring so make sure you have the appropriate kit and plenty of layers.

Your rucksack should hold everything needed and be carried comfortably. Have extra layers, a hat and gloves, enough food and drink, and a first aid kit. A compass, map and the knowledge to use them is invaluable.

Mobile phone reception isn’t always good in the Lake District. Leave details of your route and expected finish time with a buddy. If you are delayed please contact your buddy to let them know. This will prevent mountain rescue, a team of volunteers, being called out unnecessarily. If there is an emergency call 999, ask for Cumbria Police and give your location; an accurate grid reference is ideal.