Update June 2024: The route has narrowed due to vegetation and does not have any passing places. It is also difficult to turn around a mobility scooter at the end. We are working with UU to try and address these issues shortly.
A short routes with excellent views of Thirlmere Reservoir - OS Explorer Map OL5.
For Station Coppice, leave the lay-by on the Northbound side of the A591, by a path at its northern end which leads down to a gate on the right at the entry to the coppice path. Alternatively there is a steeper path with handrails leading from the lay-by to the gate but this has a step up over the curb at the top and a smaller step at the bottom. Please be aware that the route is quite narrow (1 metre wide) and there are no passing places nor turning areas, so may be difficult for those on wheeled equipment. The bench shown on the map below is no longer there but the route ends here at a new UU path sign pointing ahead. The path gets steeper beyond, with no turning areas, so those with wheels are advised not to go beyond that sign.
The route undulates along a well surfaced path, including a short, steep section with a 1:9 gradient and finishes with a good view out across the Thirlmere Reservoir. The wooded hills of High Seat and High Tove can be seen across the water.
Thirlmere was created as a reservoir in the late Victorian era. Previously, two small tarns, Leathes Water and Wythburn Water, were connected by a stream and small causeway bridge. They all disappeared, along with a hamlet and pub, when the valley floor was flooded.
Please note that mobility scooters must be class 2 or 3 on the route.
Station Coppice, Swirls car park (Northbound) or see route description for route from Southbound car park
Postcode: CA12 4TN
Grid reference: NY 315170
W3W: ///response.worker.brew
Grid reference: NY 3146 1714
W3W: ///storage.stream.flagging
Accessible toilets at United Utilities Swirls car park (Radar key required for disabled toilet). Nearby refreshments only at an ice cream van at Swirls car park
Bus: Station Coppice, the 555 Kendal to Keswick service runs along the A591 all year round and stops at Swirls. Car: For Station Coppice A591 from Keswick or Ambleside to Station Coppice car park (on Northbound side) or Swirls car park (Southbound).
