The Lake District, England’s largest national park and a muse to many, including Wordsworth and Taylor Swift, has recently enhanced its accessibility with the introduction of a new trail designed for wheelchair users.
This initiative, part of the Miles Without Stiles project, aims to open up the scenic beauty of the fells and lakes to people with limited mobility.
The story unfolds with the writer and his friend Anthony, who has cerebral palsy, embarking on a winter trip to the Lake District.
Their destination was a newly curated set of accessible trails, starting with a challenging yet rewarding route at Windermere.
Despite initial reluctance due to missing a favourite TV show, Anthony was soon persuaded to join the adventure.
Their journey began with a stay at the Lindeth Howe hotel, a country house once owned by Beatrix Potter, located on the eastern bank of Windermere.
The hotel’s commendable accessibility features ensured a comfortable stay without the need for any physical assistance, such as piggy-backing.
The duo’s adventure truly began when they tackled the trail up to Orrest Head, one of over fifty routes in the Miles Without Stiles initiative.
These trails are carefully selected and adapted for wheelchair and pushchair access, offering a variety of experiences, including a lap of Buttermere and a climb up Latrigg Fell.
For those without their own equipment, robust mobility scooters, known as Trampers, are available for rent in the region.
Anthony’s journey up to Orrest Head, aided by an SD Motion Trike from Steering Developments, was a testament to the trail’s accessibility.
The path, surrounded by a beautiful woodland and flanked by drystone walls, was comfortably navigable, despite some initial challenges.
The view from the top was a breathtaking panorama, stretching across various landscapes and inspiring a sense of awe and appreciation for the natural beauty of the area.
This new accessible trail in the Lake District not only provides an inclusive outdoor experience but also highlights the importance of making natural wonders accessible to all.
It stands as a beacon of progress in outdoor accessibility, encouraging people with limited mobility to explore and enjoy the beauty of the Lake District.
Andy Halliday is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and an avid camper. He has been exploring the wilderness and camping in the great outdoors for over two decades, and his experiences have inspired him to write about the joys of camping and the beauty of nature.
As a camping enthusiast, he believes that spending time in the wilderness is not just a way to escape the daily grind, but also a way to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Andy has camped in various locations across the country and on two different continents. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with fellow campers.
Through his writing, he hopes to inspire you to venture out into the wilderness and experience the beauty and serenity of camping. Andy articles and guides provide useful tips, advice, and insights on everything from selecting the right gear and equipment to finding the best campsites and hiking trails.
