Wide view across carleton toward the lake district fells on a clear day

Cold Springs Nature Reserve

Lake district views Woodland

Kick off a cracking circular walk at Cold Springs Nature Reserve from Scaws Drive, dive straight into a small woodland trail and then onto the open fields with knockout views of the Lake District fells.

Fences keep livestock separate, making it a top spot for your dog to wander off-lead. The ever-changing scenery, from lush hills to distant mountains, ensures a fun, relaxed adventure in Cumbria’s stunning countryside. After your stroll, nip over to the Cross Keys pub in nearby Carleton for a hearty meal.

Gallery

1/10

Walk Stats

Route map for Cold Springs Nature Reserve

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Distance

1.4 miles

Time

45 mins

Lead Info

This walk has fences between the path and livestock, making it a great off-lead adventure.

Best Seasons

All year round

Parking

Parking is available on the roadside of Scaws Drive

Route Instructions

gravel path through lush green landscape with bushes and trees under a partly cloudy sky

Step 1: Once you've parked up, head towards the woods on the righthand side

You'll see the Cold Springs retirement home sign. Go through the woods to the righthand side.

Step 2: Follow the path through the woods

Stick to the path that heads down to the left.

Step 3: Take the path between the residential gardens that leads to Brent Road

Step 4: Take a left once your reach the junction on Brent Road

Step 5: Cross the road and head up the small hill and along the gravel path

Step 6: Once the gravel path ends, follow the paved path

Once you reach the end of the gravel track, walk between the fences up onto the Carleton Estate

Step 7: Go left at the fork in the path

Step 8: Follow the gravel path between the houses and park for around half a mile

Step 9: Once you pass the sandstone stile, continue straight on the gravel path

Step 10: When you reach a fork in the route, go left through the kissing gate

Step 11: Take a left once you're through the kissing gate

Step 12: Go left through the gate when you reach the top of the hill at Beacon Edge

Step 13: Continue along the dirt path running parallel to Beacon Edge

Continue along the route for around half a mile, the path takes you to the peak of Beacon Edge with some great views.

Step 14: Once you've come to the bottom of the hill, keep to the left following the fence line towards the woods

Step 15: Head through the gate, along the gravel path, and you've reached the end of the walk

Perfect spot to refuel

Cross Keys

Dog Friendly Serves Food

A traditional, dog-friendly pub located just outside Penrith, the Cross Keys is a charming pub and the perfect stop after exploring The Beacon or the picturesque Cold Springs Nature Reserve.

We enjoyed a delightful lunch of fish and chunky chips, impressively priced at only £13.99! With a sunny beer garden and dog treats for sale behind the bar, it’s a wonderful place for walkers and their beloved pets to unwind in a friendly setting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How challenging is the walk?

It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

What is the surface like?

You'll walk on a mix of gravel tracks and well-worn grassy paths. The area is fenced off from surrounding farmland, so livestock are nearby but not on the It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

Can I use a pushchairs?

No, the terrain is too uneven, featuring gravel and natural paths with some inclines. It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

Are dogs allowed off-lead?

Yes, dogs can be off-lead for most of the route. You'll likely pass other walkers and dogs, so recall is essential.It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

Is there livestock to worry about?

No, there are livestock in the surrounding fields, but they are kept safely behind fences and gates throughout the route.It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

Are dog bins provided?

Yes, there are bins at the start of the walk and also at the top end of the route.It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

How easy is the route to follow?

While the route is mostly straightforward, there are a few confusing turns. To navigate easily, please follow our instructions.It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

Is it a circular walk?

Yes, the route loops around the reserve and brings you back to where you started.It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

How long is the walk?

It's roughly 1.4 miles and takes about 45 minutes at a steady pace.It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

Any pubs or cafés nearby?

Yes, the Cross Keys pub is nearby and an excellent option for food and drinks. They also sell small boxes of dog treats.It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

Where should I park?

Parking is available on the roadside of Scaws Drive.It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

Is there anything else unique about this walk?

Cold Springs is Penrith's first dedicated community nature reserve. It includes a wildlife garden, orchard, a historic well and newly planted woodland, and It's generally easy but includes one short, moderately steep hill leading up to Beacon Edge. It's suitable for most dog walkers.

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