The best walks and hikes around Kirkbride
4.0
(96)
577
hikers
27
hikes
Walking trails near Kirkbride explore the landscape of the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by its coastal paths, expansive salt marshes, and wetlands. These routes offer generally flat terrain with minimal elevation change, making the area accessible for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Kirkbride
- The most popular hiking route is Bowness-on-Solway & Port Carlisle loop — Solway Coast, a 3.5 mile (5.7 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 25 minutes to complete. This is an easy route that follows the coastline.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Bowness-on-Solway to Burgh by Sands via Hadrian's Wall Path — Solway Coast, a difficult 15.9 mile (25.6 km) path. This section of the long-distance Hadrian's Wall Path follows the historic Roman wall.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Molly's Path – Bowness-on-Solway loop from Drumburgh Moss National Nature Reserve, a 6.7 mile (10.8 km) trail leading through the nature reserve, often completed in about 2 hours 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Kirkbride is defined by coastal paths along the Solway Firth, trails through nature reserves, and sections of historic long-distance footpaths. The network of routes provides options for both short, easy walks and more challenging day hikes.
- The routes in Kirkbride are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.0 stars from 80 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Kirkbride's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.5
(8)
80
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
16
hikers
5.69km
01:27
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
(6)
15
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
16
hikers
13.6km
03:27
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
15
hikers
13.7km
03:28
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Kirkbride
Tips from the Community
This is the place where one of the most formidable English monarchs died when he developed fever during a campaign against the Scots in 1307. This is where Edward the First died, and being an iconic historical figure, this small, quaint monument was erected in his honour in 2007.
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Bowness-on-Solway is best known as being the western end of the iconic Hadrian's Wall. There is a small shelter here to mark the start of this national trail. You will not see much of the wall until after Carlisle, but the wall did originally start at the village with even more forts further down the coast. Being an estuary, this area is also a haven for wildlife and birdwatching.
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This is really the start of the Hadrians Wall National Trail. A lot of people stay here the night before the start of the walk. It’s a great start point too. The owners and staff couldn’t be more helpful, they are super nice and made our stay a splendid one.
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In 1823, a 11.5 mile canal was dug to link the Solway Firth to Carlisle for the transport by barge of heavy goods. The canal was eventually filled in and replaced by a railway line.
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Drumburgh Castle in Cumbria was built in 1307 as a pele tower on a Roman foundation of Hadrian's Wall, using reused Roman sandstone. In 1518, it was converted into a fortified house, a so-called bastle house, which features defensive features such as loopholes and blank walls. The building even includes an integrated Roman altar and bears the Dacre coat of arms. As a Grade I-listed building, it is of exceptional heritage importance, but it is currently privately owned and not open to the public.
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The statue of King Edward I is located in Burgh by Sands—the place where he died in 1307 during a military campaign against Scotland. Created in 2007 by artist Christopher Kelly, the statue depicts Edward I, also known as Longshanks, in a stately pose wearing medieval armor.
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The Kings Arms Inn in Bowness-on-Solway is a historic pub and B&B that has welcomed travelers and locals for over 400 years. Situated at the western end (Maia) of Hadrian's Wall, it's a popular base for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers exploring the Solway Coast National Landscape.
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In 1823, a 11.5 mile canal was dug to link the Solway Firth to Carlisle for the transport by barge of heavy goods. The canal was eventually filled in and replaced by a railway line.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Kirkbride suitable for dogs?
Yes, many trails in the area are great for walking with dogs. The open landscapes of the Solway Coast provide plenty of space. However, it's important to keep your dog on a leash and under control, especially within nature reserves like Glasson Moss and near farmland where livestock may be present.
What are the best options for family-friendly walks?
The region offers several easy walks perfect for families. The terrain is generally flat, especially along the coast. A great choice is the Bowness-on-Solway & Port Carlisle loop, which is short, flat, and follows the scenic coastline, making it engaging for all ages.
Can I find circular hiking routes near Kirkbride?
Yes, there are several circular routes available so you can end your walk where you started. For a moderate loop that explores the area's history, consider the Start of Hadrian's Wall Path loop from Bowness-on-Solway. It offers a satisfying walk without the need to arrange transport back.
What is the terrain like on the hikes around Kirkbride?
Most hikes around Kirkbride feature gentle, flat terrain with minimal elevation change. The landscape is defined by coastal paths, expansive salt marshes, and wetlands associated with the Solway Coast AONB. This makes the area highly accessible for walkers of most fitness levels.
How do I get to the trailheads using public transport?
Bus services connect Kirkbride to nearby towns and villages, including Carlisle, which is a major transport hub. Several routes start in or pass through villages like Bowness-on-Solway, which are accessible by local bus services. It's best to check the current timetables for services operating along the Solway Coast before you travel.
Where can I park for hikes in the Kirkbride area?
Parking is available at the start of many popular trails. For instance, there is designated parking in Bowness-on-Solway, which is the starting point for Hadrian's Wall Path. Nature reserves like Glasson Moss also typically have their own car parks for visitors. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.
Are there any good pubs or cafes for walkers?
Yes, you can find welcoming pubs and cafes in the villages along the Solway Coast, which are perfect for a rest after a hike. Bowness-on-Solway and Port Carlisle have establishments where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the coastal atmosphere.
What kind of scenery can I expect on a coastal walk?
Coastal walks here are known for their unique and serene beauty. You'll experience expansive sandy beaches, intricate salt marshes, and dramatic views across the Solway Firth towards Scotland. The area is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering a peaceful hiking experience.
Is this a good area for birdwatching while hiking?
Absolutely. The wetlands and salt marshes of the Solway Coast are a haven for wildlife, especially birds. The area is an important habitat for migratory birds, making it a rewarding destination for nature-loving hikers. Trails through reserves like Drumburgh Moss offer excellent opportunities for spotting various species.
Can I walk a section of Hadrian's Wall Path near Kirkbride?
Yes, Kirkbride is very close to the western end of the Hadrian's Wall Path. You can tackle the challenging point-to-point section from Bowness-on-Solway to Burgh by Sands. This route offers a full day of hiking with significant historical context.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Kirkbride?
The trails are well-regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the stunning coastal views across the Solway Firth, and the abundance of wildlife, particularly the birdlife in the wetland areas.
Are there any trails that go through nature reserves?
Yes, you can explore the unique ecosystems of the region on dedicated trails. The Molly's Path – Bowness-on-Solway loop from Drumburgh Moss National Nature Reserve is a moderate hike that takes you through the heart of a protected wetland environment, offering a different perspective from the coastal paths.
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