There has been a small route change on Day 4 between Buttermere and Braithwaite. Any GPX or maps downloaded before 21.08.24 should be replaced with the following files:
Full GPX route of the Lakeland Way: Download
Full GPX route of the Lakeland Way Ultra: Download
Day 4 – Buttermere to Braithwaite
GPX route: Download
PDF maps: Download
As you approach the village of Braithwaite towards the end of Day 4, the usual route was to follow a short traverse from the old Force Crag mine road and then down to the village. This path, above Coledale Beck, usually becomes overgrown during the summer months, but in recent years it’s become far worse. In places, the narrow path has given way due to people trying to avoid running the gauntlet of gorse and brambles, and risk damaging those expensive waterproof jackets. Because of this, and with no signs of the path being maintained, a decision has been made to change the route to follow the old mine road to its end, and where it meets the Whinlatter road (B5292).
The following images show the state of the path in August 2024:
During a family day out enjoying the glorious weather, we decided to do a recce of the traverse. Two weeks prior to this Jaclyn was walking this section while on her Lakeland Way adventure, and had reported the condition of this path.
Gorse and brambles now hinder progress along the path. This section is where clothing can get damaged as you try to push your way through the dense undergrowth.
The decision has now been made to change this section on Day 4. Emily is seen here climbing up the steep bank and taking a shortcut back to the old mine road.
The following three images show the traverse in April 2022, when the path is much easier to walk along:
The next image shows the old mine road in May 2018, where it meets the Whinlatter road:
