Stagecoach provide a “555 StagePath” booklet which allows walkers to choose eight walking stages between Windermere and Keswick.  They are generally about four miles in length and start and finish at bus stops on route.  The booklet allows for a Northbound or Southbound direction.  For more information visit www.markrichards.info and click Ride & Stride StagePaths.

Having caught a train from Preston to Windermere and then the 555 bus to Kelsick Road in Ambleside we started the walk at eleven thirty.  The train fare was £9.95 with a Senior Rail Card and the bus journey was courtesy of the government. (Bus Pass).  Following instructions in the booklet and using an Outdoor Leisure 7 map we travelled an elevated route on the east of Lake Windermere using Stages 2 & 1 southbound.  Some of the detail provided was a little dated and the statement of easy gradients mentioned in the booklet may be under exaggerated a little.  In the main the paths were easy enough to follow but a map proved useful.  The route offered some splendid views rewarding us for making the effort in climbing some steepish bits of path.  A added bonus was the sighting of the many spring flowers in bloom and spring lambs in the fields.  Arriving exhilarated in Windermere we rewarded ourselves with a Cream Tea at Booths Supermarket before departing on the 17.06 train.  A good day out!

Nb. Using the southbound route appears save approximately 300 feet of ascent.