About
The Walk
The Route
The route takes in some of the finest Cumbrian landscapes from the peaceful banks of Thirlmere at the foot of Helvellyn, winding up and over Dunmail Raise and down through the beautiful villages of Grasmere and Elterwater. From there the walk passes Yew Tree Tarn before reaching the head of Coniston Water, where the quiet east bank of the lake is followed. There are fine views of Coniston Old Man as the route passes Brantwood, the former home of the Lakeland poet John Ruskin, then continues through the tranquil village of Nibthwaite before arriving in Lowick.
The most challenging part of the walk is the progressive ascent up Kirkby Moor to the highest point of the route from where breathtaking views of the Furness Peninsula can be gained, out across Morecambe Bay and the Irish Sea. The route then descends through the village of Marton into the historical town of Dalton before reaching the finish on the outskirts of Barrow-in-Furness.
Keswick / Barrow Walk - Route Profile
Today, the walk is a popular event in the Lakeland calendar, with many teams from outside Cumbria regularly taking up the challenge. Indeed, an increasing number of corporate organisations from around the country address the event as a ‘team-building’ exercise with all the usual organisational, logistical, and motivational challenges associated with getting a team through 40 miles of undulating but beautiful countryside.
For walkers and runners alike, the Keswick to Barrow Challenge offers the opportunity to experience the many and varied lakeland landscapes whilst realising a significant personal achievement, and raising funds for worthy causes. The realisation of this achievement is clearly evident as finishers soak up the terrific atmosphere upon reaching the finish.
