Access Minister Baroness Hayman and Josh MacAlister, MP for Whitehaven and Workington, launched the new Coast to Coast National Trail with a special walk at Ennerdale this week.
The Coast to Coast Path – first devised by Alfred Wainwright – has now been formally upgraded to National Trail status, becoming one of England’s premier long-distance routes and the first National Trail to pass through the Lake District.
The 190-mile route stretches from St. Bees on the Irish Sea to Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Sea, taking in some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. The Cumbrian section begins along the coastline before heading inland through Cleator Moor and Ennerdale, and across the fells towards Shap.
The upgrade follows a £5.5 million investment to bring the route up to National Trail standard, including improved accessibility, upgraded paths and bridges, and consistent, high-quality signage. The trail will also benefit from dedicated funding for ongoing maintenance, ensuring it can be enjoyed for generations to come.
Josh MacAlister MP said:
“Today marks a hugely significant moment for our area and for the Lake District. The Coast to Coast is one of the UK’s most iconic walks, and it’s fantastic to see it officially recognised as a National Trail.
“Starting at St. Bees and passing through communities like Cleator Moor and Ennerdale, this route showcases the very best of West Cumbria. It’s not just about stunning scenery – it’s about supporting local businesses, boosting tourism, and helping more people connect with nature.
“I was delighted to have Minister Hayman join me at Ennerdale to celebrate this milestone and to see first-hand the improvements that have been made to make the trail more accessible to everyone.”
Access Minister Baroness Hayman said:
“The Coast to Coast National Trail showcases some of the very best of England’s landscapes, and the Lake District section is truly spectacular. This investment means more people than ever can enjoy these incredible places, with improved paths and signage helping them explore safely and sustainably. We are proud to support a trail that connects communities, boosts local economies, and protects our natural environment for future generations.”
More than 6,000 people complete the full Coast to Coast route each year, with many thousands more walking sections of it. The trail plays an important role in supporting local economies, with the vast majority of walkers using local food, accommodation and other services along the way.
The designation of the Coast to Coast Path as a National Trail places it alongside some of England’s most celebrated walking routes and marks a major milestone for the Lake District, which has not previously had a National Trail.
The launch at Ennerdale forms part of a wider week of celebrations organised by Natural England to mark the official opening of the route.
Josh MacAlister MP 