North Walney National Nature Reserve
North Walney National Nature Reserve
4.4
(147)
2,008
hikers
122
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in North Walney National Nature Reserve offer access to a diverse coastal landscape where land meets the Irish Sea. The region is characterized by expansive beaches, rolling sand dunes, grasslands, and significant wetlands, including salt marshes and inter-tidal mudflats. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, providing accessible paths for various fitness levels. This area retains a wilderness feel, offering coastal views and a rich natural environment.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.3
(3)
22
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
5.11km
01:19
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
7
hikers
3.66km
00:57
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Constructed in the early 20th century, this stone footbridge is only accessible at low tide. So plan your crossing! It's a novel way to cross the channel, in the footsteps of the by-gone industrial era.
0
0
The Bay Cycle Way is a stunning coastal cycle path that runs from here on Walney Island all the way to Glasson Dock in Lancaster. You'll encounter beautiful coastal views, quaint towns and villages, and an abundance of local wildlife. Enjoy!
0
0
A stone's throw from the beach front in delighful Walney, Round House Hub & Cafe is a popular spot for local cyclists and walkers. Renowned for its friendly atmosphere, this community-driven hub offers coffee and cakes or full meals. There's also plenty of outside space for your bike.
0
0
Walnay Channel footpath accessible only at low tide
0
0
There are over 120 hiking routes accessible from bus stations in North Walney National Nature Reserve, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels.
Yes, many routes are suitable for families. For an easy, shorter option, consider the The Dock Museum loop from Isle of Walney, which is 3.6 km and takes just over an hour. The paths are generally flat with minimal elevation change, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
The bus-accessible trails in North Walney National Nature Reserve feature a diverse coastal landscape. You'll encounter expansive beaches, rolling sand dunes, grasslands, and wetlands including salt marshes. The terrain is generally flat, offering easy walking with impressive coastal views.
Dogs are generally welcome on trails in North Walney National Nature Reserve. However, during the breeding season for ground-nesting birds (March to July), it is critical to keep dogs on short leads to protect species like Ringed Plover and Oystercatcher.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes are circular. An example is the Round House Hub & Cafe – Walney Channel Coastal Walk loop from Isle of Walney, which offers a moderate 8 km circular hike with coastal views.
North Walney National Nature Reserve is rich in wildlife and natural beauty. You might spot diverse bird species, including breeding wildfowl and migratory birds, especially in the wetlands. The reserve is also home to the rare natterjack toad and the unique Walney Island geranium. Coastal views towards the Isle of Man and the Lake District fells are also prominent.
The reserve offers year-round interest. Spring and summer are excellent for birdwatching and enjoying the flora, though remember to keep dogs on leads during breeding season (March-July). Autumn and winter provide opportunities to see wintering waders and migratory birds, and the coastal paths offer a peaceful experience, especially around sunrise.
Absolutely. The Walney Channel Coastal Walk loop from Isle of Walney is an easy 5.1 km route that provides direct access to the coastline and takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete.
The bus-accessible trails in North Walney National Nature Reserve are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 140 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil coastal environment, the diverse wildlife, and the well-maintained, generally flat paths that offer stunning views.
Yes, you can enjoy views of the Walney Wind Farm on routes like the View of Walney Wind Farm – View of the Lake in the Park loop from Barrow-in-Furness. This easy 4.6 km hike provides scenic vistas and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Yes, for a route that includes both a reservoir and woodland, consider the Ormsgill Reservoir – How Tun Wood loop from Barrow-in-Furness. This easy 3.7 km trail offers a pleasant walk through varied scenery.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.