Did you know you can travel to Wasdale without taking the car? Park and ride the free Wasdale shuttle bus from Ravenglass train station. Funded through the GDF programme, the bus operates until 15 September 2024 on Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays.
Lake District National Park volunteer Philip Higgins shared his visit to the Western Lakes:
On a welcome dry day in July, I decided to take a trip to the western lakes. The first bus leaves Ravenglass National Park car park at 0855. After first making a stop at Muncaster Castle, where there’s a lot to see, from bird of prey displays to the weapons hall, and even some ghost hunting; the bus then travels towards Wasdale via the village of Gosforth.
There are some designated bus stops, but the friendly drivers will stop to pick you up or drop you off anywhere along the route, if it is safe to do so.
Dogs are welcome, with well-behaved owners, and it is possible to get pushchairs on the bus too, though you will need to fold them.
Before long, the magnificent and moody Wastwater comes into view. As the bus is edging passed other vehicles on the narrow road to Wasdale Head, I am really glad I left my car in Ravenglass. The bus drivers are used to these roads, so I can sit back and admire the view.
You could get off at Nether Wasdale and walk from there along the valley and lakeshore of Wastwater or up onto the fells, or you could take the bus all the way to the end of the line at Wasdale Head. If you are planning to do Scafell Pike, or one of the other dramatic peaks, make sure you are Adventure Smart and have all the appropriate gear. Drop in at the famous Wasdale Head Inn for a warm welcome, good ale, and hearty food.
I took in the majesty of the panorama. Today was not a day for a momentous hike for me. Instead, I was more than content to look up from the valley bottom, and out across the lake. Stunning.
The buses are frequent between Nether Wasdale and Wasdale Head, so there was not a long wait for the next bus when I was ready to return. At every turn, there was another marvellous view. Wait a minute, was that a falcon? I would never have seen that if I’d been concentrating on driving along these tricky roads in my car.
With the last bus returning to Ravenglass at 18.35, it’s possible to have a big day out, and likely to be able to tick off a ‘Wainwright’ or two. Adventurous or leisurely, it’s up to you. I did leisurely this time, but Wasdale was so beautiful, I will be back soon for an adventure. The free Wasdale shuttle bus, allowed us to have a stress-free day out in the Lake District.
The shuttle bus service has been funded through Mid Copeland GDF Community Partnership.
For more information on the Wasdale shuttle bus service visit our website: Wasdale shuttlebus to Wastwater (lakedistrict.gov.uk)