Lakes and Dales Horseback Rambler

In February 2023 the local Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) ranger contacted Cumbria Bridleways Society as they wanted to test out the new bridge and boardwalk on the first section of the West Windermere Way. Myself and Bridget Pickthall of course happily volunteered and spent a morning checking the route for horses before it opened in March 2023. We found both structures very easy to use and can very much recommend the route! All of the sections (to date) of the West Windermere Way are now open and you can either complete a short route of between 5 miles and 7 miles (depending on where you park) or you can ride on all of the trail which makes a 9.5 miles ride from Backbarrow. Starting at the Motor Museum at Backbarrow take the road down to the Whitewater Hotel and cross the river and then take the lanes towards Newby Bridge. After about 2.5 miles take the bridleway up through the woods. This is a lovely route through native woodland and it really does have a ancient bri...

Just over the border from Cumbria is Lancaster’s Millennium Greenway (NCN Route 69), which runs along the old railway line which was closed in 1967. For some time, this route has been on my to do list as the route represents something that some similar trails do not seem to be able to offer – a route for all! Whether you get about on foot, wheels or hoof everyone is welcome. Sadly, in recent years there has been a trend not to talk inclusive of all users and the focus is on walking and cycling only. We have whole strategies on the subject, but most of these hefty documents hardly even mention equestrians or disabled users. The message back from the powers at be is yes this new trail is ‘multi user’, but some then say its multi user, but no horses! Lancaster’s Millennium Greenway was thankfully created before this silliness and provides a classic link from rural to urban meaning we can all access Lancaster city centre off road. We parked at Bull Beck car park, Caton. The car park is f...