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Opening times for 22 February 2025
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Parking available in the villages and laybys. No National Trust parking in Eskdale
Dogs allowed
Dogs are welcome to our outdoor properties but please keep them under close control to protect stock and wildlife. Take a look at our Canine Code and enjoy a great day out with your pup!
Much of the countryside is steep and rugged.
By road
Eskdale, 6 miles east of A595, turning at Eskdale Green. Duddon 3 miles north of A595, turning at Duddon Bridge near Broughton-in-Furness.
Parking: in laybys, along roadsides and at some small village car parks (not National Trust)
By train
Ravenglass for Eskdale. Foxfield for Duddon.
Cycling
The nearest Sustrans national cycling route is route 72 along the Cumbrian coast from Ravenglass to Silloth. Information about cycling in the Eskdale area, including routes and bike hire, can be found on the La’l ratty railway site here. There are a number of mountain biking routes in the Eskdale and Duddon area. The National Trust ranger guide showing these routes can be purchased in the National Trust campsite shop at Lake Head in Wasdale. The nearest bicycle hire is at Ravenglass, Muncaster cycles.
Planning your visit
Article
Visiting Eskdale and Duddon Valley with your dog
Eskdale and Duddon Valley has a one paw print rating. Find out all you need to know about bringing your furry side-kick on an adventure by the river, in the valleys and up the fells.
Article
Wild camping in the Lake District
Find out more about wild camping in the Lake District, whether it's right for you and how to do it legally, safely and responsibly.
Highlights
Eskdale Valley
Descending from high wild mountains, the valley has riverside and woodland walks, waterfalls, stepping stones and the popular Eskdale Trail.
Duddon Valley
Narrow valley with rugged fells at its head and two of England’s highest mountain passes. Riverside, woodland and fell walking.
Places to stay
Eskdale Campsite
Low in the valley, with trails by the river and up through the fells to small mountain lakes. Village pubs are a short stroll away.
Thrang
A rural hideaway in Duddon Valley, this farmhouse is a peaceful retreat amongst fells and streams.
Bird How
A remote cottage in the Eskdale valley offering a peaceful retreat in the Lake District.
Eelbeck Cottage
An attractive stone cottage in the tranquil heart of the Lakes where you and the family can explore nearby crags, woods and waterfalls.
Wasdale Campsite
A mile from Wastwater, close to challenging bike trails and Scafell Pike, England’s tallest mountain.
Wasdale Hall Lodge
A stone cottage with traditional furnishings located in the remote valley of Wasdale.
Top trails
Trail
River Esk: Steam, ride and ramble walk
A ramble along the River Esk and one of Cumbria's favourite steam railways with lovely scenery of crags, woods, fields and the river.
Upcoming events
Sorry, there are no upcoming events at this place
About Eskdale and Duddon Valley
The valleys descend from the highest and wildest mountains all the way to the beautiful sandy beaches on Cumbria’s peaceful western coast. The landscape provides everything from grandeur and beauty to tranquillity and remoteness.
These valleys are a walkers paradise. Wander along one of the memorable riverside walks with their intimate scenic combination of crags, woods and waterfalls. Bring a picnic and don’t forget your dog! A favourite lower level walk is the Eskdale trail which follows the river from St Catherine’s church where you can cross the river on stepping stones. On a warm day cool off in one of the many rock pools.
If you want to get away from it all then Harter fell is quiet and truly beautiful, with wonderful panoramic views of Scafell and the southern fells. The higher mountains such as Esk Pike or Scafell with their magnificent views are well worth the long walk in from Eskdale.
For historical interest in a spectacular setting, a short drive part way up the infamous Hardknott pass to the Roman fort, named Mediobogdum, gives you a chance to walk in the footsteps of the Romans.
History
Article
The history of Eskdale and Duddon Valley
Discover the rich history of Eskdale & Duddon Valley, from prehistoric times to the present day. Find out about the industrial past of both locations, and how they inspired art.
Our work
Upper Duddon Landscape Recovery Project
We are now in the second year of the development phase for DEFRA funded Upper Duddon Landscape Recover project and we are excited to see it gaining momentum. In partnership with local farmers, Natural England, Forestry England, the University of Leeds and South Cumbria Rivers Trust, we will be looking at restoring rivers, woodlands and other important habitats and boosting biodiversity within an area of nearly 3000 hectares in the Upper Duddon valley. Click here to learn more about our plans and how we are working with farmers to restore nature and ensure upland fell farmers have a sustainable future in the area.
Support us
Volunteer with us
Search for live volunteering opportunities, or register your interest with Eskdale and Duddon Valley.