North West walking and wheeling
Welcome to the North West Walking and Wheeling page – your gateway to exploring the region in a healthy, sustainable, and accessible way. Whether you’re strolling through scenic countryside, wheeling along vibrant urban trails, or discovering hidden gems in local communities, there’s a route for everyone.
Curated by community rail means many of these North West walks and wheeling routes are easily accessible from local train stations, making it simple to leave the car behind and enjoy the journey from the moment you leave the train.
Tracks to Trails: Explore South East Manchester
Discover the beauty of South East Manchester on foot with a variety of scenic walks curated by the South East Manchester Community Rail Partnership. These routes are designed to start from local railway stations, making it easy to swap the car for a train and dive straight into green spaces, historic towns, and countryside trails. See the routes here.
Get social with guided walks around Lancashire
Explore Lancashire with these inspiring guided walks – a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors, meet new people, and travel sustainably. These free, welcoming walks are led by experienced volunteers from Lancashire Rail Ramblers, who work closely with Community Rail Lancashire to connect people with the region’s rich landscapes and heritage.
Starting from local railway stations, each walk is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, whether you’re a seasoned walker or just looking for a gentle stroll. With expert guidance, scenic routes, and a friendly atmosphere, these walks offer a brilliant boost for both body and mind. See the latest guided walk programme here.
Explore nature at your own pace with Forest of Bowland
Looking for a countryside walk that suits your pace and ability? Thanks to a collaboration between Forest of Bowland National Landscape and Community Rail Lancashire, a collection of accessible walking routes has been created to help everyone enjoy Bowland’s stunning scenery.
From gentle riverside strolls to hilltop hikes, these walks are designed for all abilities and many start near train stations, making it easy to travel sustainably. With downloadable maps and clear route info, it’s never been simpler to step into nature. Discover the Eco Escapes itineraries here.
Begin your coast to coast adventure at St Bees
The Coast to Coast Walk begins dramatically at St Bees Head, a stunning stretch of the Cumbrian Heritage Coast and the only sea cliffs along this part of England. Easily reached by train via St Bees railway station (part of the impressive Cumbrian Coast Line, this starting point offers walkers a breathtaking launch into one of the Britain’s most iconic long-distance trails.
This is more than just the start of a walk – it’s the beginning of a 192-mile journey across England’s most diverse landscapes, from mountains and moors to valleys and villages.
See more details about the route here.
Cumbrian Coast Line
From steel to cotton- walk the industrial heart of the Peak District
Step back in time and stride forward into nature with the Steel Cotton Rail Trail, a unique station-to-station walking route that links Sheffield and Manchester via the scenic Hope Valley Line. Inspired by the journeys of 20th-century steel and cotton workers escaping city smog for fresh Peak District air, this trail invites modern-day explorers to do the same – sustainably and car-free.
Created by the High Peak and Hope Valley Community Rail Partnership and South East Manchester CRP, the trail winds through woodlands, meadows, canal paths, and historic towns, offering stunning views and rich industrial heritage along the way. With 14 walkable sections, you can tackle as much or as little as you like – and hop back on the train whenever you’re ready. See the routes here.
Tracks to tranquillity along the Bentham Line
Discover the perfect blend of scenic travel and countryside walking with the Rail to Trail series along The Bentham Line. This collection of 12 self-guided walks stretches across 68 miles of stunning Lancashire and Yorkshire landscapes, linking stations from Heysham Port to Skipton.
The Bentham Line
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, these routes offer something for everyone – from riverside rambles to village visits, all easily accessible by train. Each walk is designed with comfort and discovery in mind, ending near refreshment stops and offering options to combine routes for longer adventures.
Bay views and butterfly trails in Arnside
Hop aboard the scenic Furness Line and step into a world of natural wonder with the Arnside Knott Circular Walk, a peaceful yet invigorating route through one of the Lake District’s most wildlife-rich landscapes.
Arnside Station
Just a short stroll from Arnside Station, this moderate 1.7 mile trail offers sweeping views over Morecambe Bay, ancient woodlands, and limestone grasslands teeming with butterflies and rare wildflowers. It’s the perfect car-free day out, combining sustainable travel with soul-soothing scenery. Whether you’re picnicking at the summit or spotting migrating birds overhead, Arnside Knott is a hidden gem waiting to be explored, just a train ride away.
Please check your route before setting off for any disruptions or path closures.