Destinations > Northern England > Cumbrian Coastal Route
Cumbrian Coastal Route Road Trip
This linear route spans the captivating Cumbria’s coastline, inspired by the “CCR200”.
This road trip combines rugged landscapes, maritime history, and ancient heritage. Explore charming coastal towns like Whitehaven and Barrow-in-Furness, where maritime legacy thrives in historic docks and bustling marinas.
Explore St. Bees Head's dramatic cliffs and the tranquil shores of Morecambe Bay.
Discover picturesque islands like Walney Island and Piel Island, each offering unique charm and cultural intrigue.
Explore the western Lake District as it meets the Cumbria coast. Dive into Cumbria's ancient past at Hadrian's Wall and Carlisle, tracing the footsteps of Roman legionaries amidst evocative ruins of forts and mile castles.
Visit Cumbria
Enjoy an unforgettable journey along the captivating Cumbria coast, where rugged landscapes, maritime history, and ancient heritage converge to create a road trip of unparalleled adventure. Explore enchanting islands, bustling docks, and picturesque towns steeped in maritime legacy. Delve into the region's ancient past at Hadrian's Wall and Carlisle, tracing the footsteps of Roman legionaries amidst evocative ruins. Lace up your hiking boots and wander along scenic coastal walks, where sweeping vistas and rugged cliffs reveal Cumbria's breathtaking natural beauty. Join us for an unforgettable road trip experience unlike any other.
☑ Cumbria Road Trip:
This linear route along Cumbria’s coastline takes 5 or 6 days, depending upon your stops. It’s around 155 miles (around 250 km) without the detours into the Lake District. Travel from Morecambe Bay to Carlisle, following the stunning coast. Along the way enjoy far-stretching views, nature experiences and water-based activities. Along the coast, encounter picturesque beaches, charming villages, nature reserves and historical landmarks.
☑ Whitehaven:
Whitehaven, a historic coastal town in Cumbria, boasts a rich maritime heritage and stunning Georgian architecture. Once a bustling port for coal mining and shipbuilding, it's now a charming destination for visitors with a picturesque marina. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Whitehaven offers a memorable stop on any road trip through the Cumbria coast.
☑ Hadrian’s Wall:
Visiting Hadrian's Wall is a journey through ancient history and breathtaking landscapes. Stretching across the northern frontier of the Roman Empire, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved ruins and fortifications. Explore the remains of forts, milecastles, and turrets, and walk along the iconic wall that once marked the edge of the Roman Empire.
☑ Lake District National Park:
Explore the western Lake District as it overlaps with the Cumbria Coast, offering a captivating blend of rugged landscapes, picturesque villages, and stunning coastal scenery, from the towering peaks of Scafell Pike to the tranquil shores of Windermere. Dive into charming towns like Kendal and Cockermouth, where maritime history and literary heritage converge. Whether you're hiking in the fells, or cruising on the lakes, the Lake District is a road trip destination not to be missed.
☑ St Bees Head:
A visit to St. Bees Head is a must on any road trip along the Cumbria coast. St. Bees Head offers stunning views of the Irish Sea and the surrounding coastline and is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and birdwatchers, with scenic walking trails that lead along the cliffs and down to the beach below. The headland is also home to a historic lighthouse and an RSPB nature reserve, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the nature and wildlife of the area.
☑ Carlisle:
Adding Carlisle to your road trip itinerary will offer a fascinating glimpse into both ancient and modern history. Explore the city's rich heritage, from its Roman roots to its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. With its blend of ancient history, cultural attractions, and modern amenities, Carlisle is a captivating destination that offers something for everyone to enjoy on their road trip through Cumbria.
☑ Cumbria Maps:
This Cumbria road trip is mapped out on 3 Cumbria maps, including a flexible driving route. Use the Overnight Stay to locate 20+ campsites, 20 motorhome stops, pub stops & almost wild spots, 50+ hotels and 65+ B&Bs, guesthouses and lodges and the Uncover More map pinpoints to 25+ viewpoints, 100+ places of interest, 40+ hidden gems and3 wild swim spots. This planner is suitable for motorhomes, campervans and caravans as sites are included. If you are travelling in a car, choose to camp or stay in a B&B or hotel are also listed.
☑ Cumbria Coast Itinerary:
This itinerary is perfect for enjoying the coast of Cumbria and the western edge of the Lake District National Park. The travel guide covers visitor information for 20 destinations and locations along the way, plus loads of links and references. Check out iconic and historic sites, the dramatic coast, walks in the area, and more, with references and 100s of attractions. Browse things to do, including local experiences and activities available as bookable links.
England Road Trip Travel Guide: Cumbrian Road Trip Overview
Save hours searching the internet using our well-researched inspiration and signposting to plan your perfect Cumbrian Coast holiday.
Enjoy a road trip to Cumbria on this fully flexible driving route itinerary.
Guide images for illustration purposes
Find the best Cumbrian campsites, almost wild spots, pub stops and motorhome stopover spots from our Overnight Stays map.
Travelling in a car? Stay overnight in a hotel or B&B.
This Cumbria route planner covers guides to 20 destinations
The Cumbria destination guide includes references and embedded links to over 60 attractions, experiences, and activities.
Browse from a range of bookable, local experiences and activities, by location, such as tours, boat trips, bike hire, and things to do in the Norffolk .
Easily locate viewpoints, hidden gems, wild swim spots and more.
Buy the Cumbria Coast Road Trip in two ways:
Individual Road Trip
One-off payment: 1 year access. No subscription to cancel.
All Northern England Road Trips
One-off payment: 1 year access. No subscription to cancel.
More Things to do on the Cumbrian Coast?
Explore the coastline: The Cumbrian coast has several beautiful beaches, coves, and cliffs to explore. The Cumbrian coast is one of the most beautiful in the UK, with dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque villages.
Historic Coast: Steeped in history, you will find a number of castles, abbeys, and other historical sites to explore. Cumbria is home to a number of castles, including Muncaster Castle, Cumbria's only inhabited castle. Explore coastal castles and forts, such as Maryport Castle, and learn about their fascinating histories and architectural marvels.
Picture-perfect towns and villages: Visit charming villages and lovely market towns. The Cumbrian coast has several picture-perfect villages to explore and bustling market towns to enjoy.
Culture: Home to a vibrant cultural scene, you’ll be able to soak up the culture from several museums, art galleries, and theatres. The Cumbrian coast is home to some of the best food and drinks in the UK, from fresh seafood to locally-produced cheese.
Go hiking: There are several hiking trails in the Lake District, and the Coast to Coast Walk.
Water-based activities: On the Cumbrian coast, there are various water-based activities to enjoy, catering to different interests and adventure levels, including watersports like sailing and windsurfing, kayaking and canoeing and kite surfing. Discover hidden coves and sea caves by kayaking or canoeing. Guided tours are available for those new to the activity. The wide beaches provide an ideal setting for kite surfing, combining elements of windsurfing and paragliding.
Enjoy the beaches: Enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea on one of Cumbria's beautiful beaches. Many beaches are family-friendly with lifeguards on duty during peak seasons. Explore the shoreline for seashells, fossils, and other treasures washed up by the sea. Pack a picnic and relax on the sandy shores while taking in the picturesque coastal views.
Wildlife Watching: Cumbria's coast is home to various bird species and is perfect for birdwatching. Bring binoculars and spot coastal and seabirds in their natural habitats. To catch a glimpse of a seal, Take a boat trip to see seals basking on rocks or swimming in the sea. Several operators offer guided tours for seal watching.
Go sea fishing: Join a local fishing charter and try your hand at sea fishing. The waters off the Cumbrian coast are rich in various fish species.