Keswick to Threlkeld Trail (K2T) aka The Line

Looking down the center of a long, illuminated historic railway tunnel on the Keswick to Threlkeld trail. The tunnel features original arched brickwork and a smooth, accessible paved walking path.

If there is one route that truly proves the Lake District is stunning no matter what the Cumbrian weather throws at us, it is the Keswick to Threlkeld trail. Known locally as “The Line,” this fully accessible path follows the old railway route winding through the Greta Gorge.

Because the path and bridges are smooth and flat, it is one of the rare trails you can tackle just as easily on a blazing summer afternoon as on a crisp, snow-covered morning. Here is your complete local guide to walking The Line.

Where to Park

Before you set off, you have a few solid options for parking in Keswick:

The Station Car Park: Right at the start of the trail.

Roadside Parking: There is some free parking along the road coming from town if you get there early enough.

Crosthwaite Car Park: A great alternative. You can park here and take a beautiful stroll through Fitz Park and up to the station to start your walk.

Setting Off: Keswick Station to the Victorian Tunnel

The journey kicks off right at the historic Keswick Railway Station. Seeing the old Victorian platform canopy sets a brilliant, atmospheric tone for the walk ahead.

The historic Keswick Railway Station platform featuring original green iron pillars and a Victorian glass canopy, surrounded by fresh winter snow at the start of the Keswick to Threlkeld trail.

Heading down the Keswick to Threlkeld trail, you will quickly cross your first bridge, offering a great initial view down the River Greta. Shortly after, you will reach the Cattle Arch.

A scenic winter view looking down the rocky River Greta towards Keswick town from the first bridge on the trail, framed by bare trees with the sun peeking through and distant mountains under a dramatic cloudy sky.

Local Tip: If you forgot your water or snacks, you can easily nip in to the top garage here to grab supplies before heading further out.

Continuing down The Line, the path passes the back of Latrigg Close and dips through a small tunnel under Penrith Road. A short walk up a small incline brings you to the stunningly restored Victorian tunnel.

A smooth, paved walking path leading into a beautifully restored stone-faced railway tunnel on the Keswick to Threlkeld trail. The entrance is framed by wooden fencing, and grassy embankments under a bright sky. Looking down the center of a long, illuminated historic railway tunnel on the Keswick to Threlkeld trail. The tunnel features original arched brickwork and a smooth, accessible paved walking path.

The Greta Gorge & River Crossings

As you exit the tunnel, you are greeted with spectacular views up and down the River Greta. Looking upriver, you get a magnificent sight of Blencathra, while a glance downriver reveals Forge Island and the slopes of Latrigg.

(Up River) A scenic view looking up the rocky River Greta as it winds through a lush green wooded gorge, with the smooth, sun-kissed peak of Blencathra mountain standing prominently against a clear blue sky on the Keswick to Threlkeld trail. (Down River) A vibrant view looking down the rocky River Greta towards Forge Island from the Keswick to Threlkeld railway line. The river is framed by lush, dense green woodland, with the steep slopes of Latrigg mountain rising against a colourful, partly cloudy sky.

Taking in the views, you will continue past Low Briery (the site of the old bobbin mill) and under a high tunnel. This leads onto a long, straight section of the path, taking you over the newly restored bridges. As you cross, you can still see the sheer scale of the damage left behind by previous flooding—a stark reminder of the power of the local waters.

A wide, smooth paved walking path crossing a modern bridge with wooden railings, leading directly into a vibrant, dense green summer forest canopy on the Keswick to Threlkeld railway path. A wide, bright view of the rocky River Greta showing a massive, steep, exposed earth bank caused by historic flood erosion. Lush green trees line the top of the cliff under a clear blue summer sky.

Huts, Shores, and Echoes

Keep pushing along the path, and eventually, you will reach the first hut. This is a favourite local spot to take a breather and soak in the uninterrupted view of Blencathra.

A rustic, historic brick and stone railway shelter with a traditional slate roof, known locally as the first hut, sitting beside the Keswick to Threlkeld trail next to vibrant green trees under a clear blue sky. A picturesque view from the first hut on the Keswick to Threlkeld trail, featuring a smooth paved path leading to a traditional Cumbrian dry stone wall, a field of white summer wildflowers, and the towering green peak of Blencathra mountain under a blue, cloudy sky.

Fully rested, you will cross another modern bridge. Just over the bridge to your right is a beautiful little shoreline section next to the River Greta. If the first hut was busy, this is the perfect alternative spot for dogs to have a drink and a paddle to cool down on a hot day.

A peaceful view from a grassy and sandy shoreline looking across the calm, clear waters of the River Greta. A modern, dark green metal bridge from the Keswick to Threlkeld trail spans the river, framed by bright green summer trees under a clear blue sky.

By this point, you have truly left the town behind. The traffic noise is replaced entirely by birds singing and the blissful quietness of this section of the path. Soon, you will enter the second old tunnel—which is absolutely brilliant for echoes lol.

A smooth paved walking path leading into a historic stone arch railway tunnel on the Keswick to Threlkeld trail. The tunnel entrance is cut deep into rugged rock walls covered in lush green ferns and moss, with bright sunlight shining at the far end. A damp, paved walking path leading through a dark, historic stone arch railway tunnel on the Keswick to Threlkeld trail. Perfectly framed through the tunnel's exit is the iconic, dark green metal railway bridge surrounded by bright summer foliage.

The Final Stretch of the Keswick to Threlkeld Trail

Exiting the echo tunnel, you will find the second hut, offering another chance to chill out and take a break before the final leg.

A traditional, rustic stone railway shelter featuring a slate roof covered in bright green moss, known locally as the second hut on the Keswick to Threlkeld trail. A wooden bench sits outside on a damp, leaf-strewn paved path surrounded by dense woodland.

Past the hut, the trail cuts through a lovely section flanked by high stone walls on either side. It is exceptionally lush here; especially when it’s been raining, the water drips beautifully off the overhanging plants and rugged rocks, giving it a real wild-valley feel.

A close-up view of a historic dark stone retaining wall on the Keswick to Threlkeld trail, heavily covered in vibrant green moss, hanging vines, and large ferns, showcasing the damp, lush environment of the gorge.

You have nearly made it. The path leads you to the final bridge crossing.

A smooth paved path with wooden fences leading to a large, historic dark green metal truss railway bridge on the Keswick to Threlkeld trail. Bright sunlight bursts through the lush green trees, creating a lens flare and a warm, hazy glow.

Once over the river, you will walk up a distinctive zigzag path.

A smooth, paved black tarmac path zigzagging up a gentle hill. The path is lined with wooden fences and surrounded by green grass, newly planted saplings in protective tubes, and a dense woodland area, marking the final section of the Keswick to Threlkeld trail.

This marks the official end of “The Line.” From the top of the zigzags, the path continues alongside the A66 before you turn left into the village of Threlkeld (note: the path merges with the road for a short section as you enter the village).

The Reward & The Return

You have completed the walk, which means you have earned a reward. We highly recommend grabbing some food and a well-deserved drink at the Horse and Farrier pub in Threlkeld.

A bottle of red wine and two filled glasses resting on a black tray on a wooden picnic table in the Horse and Farrier beer garden in Threlkeld. In the background sits the traditional white pub, a car park, and the sweeping green slopes of the fells under a cloudy blue sky.

When you are ready to head back to Keswick, you have four great options:

Catch the Bus: The X4 or X5 will run you straight back into Keswick town centre.
Walk the Line: Head back exactly the way you came and see the Keswick to Threlkeld trail from a new perspective.
Grab a Taxi: Perfect if your legs have had enough for one day.
The Scenic Detour: For those wanting a bigger adventure, you can take a detour on the walk back and route yourself past the famous Castlerigg Stone Circle.
Make the Decision the Next Day. Book a room at the Horse and Farrier in Threlkeld. Spend a night at the inn: chill, food, drink, evening stroll in Threlkeld.

Find Accommodation

Looking for the perfect base for your next Lake District adventure? From traditional coaching inns and cosy village B&Bs to lakeside hotels with dramatic fell views, find the best places to stay in Keswick and the surrounding valleys. Search real-time availability, compare top-rated stays, and book your getaway.

Recommended Place to Stay: Horse and Farrier Threlkeld.

If you are looking for more trail inspiration, check out our Seatoller to Grange walk guide or explore our Skiddaw hiking route. You can also visit our Lake District DNA shop for local mountain apparel.

Want more inspiration on where to visit? Check out our Lake District Gallery.