Gilwilly: The Clear Your Head Circuit

This hour long walk will help clear your mind and get closer to nature.

See the seasons and colours change at Thacka Beck’s wetland and see if you can spot some of the abundant birdlife from the benches and viewing points around the site.

Follow the National Cycle Route through on a loop through Penrith’s tranquil countryside and soak up its rural charm.

Ideal for anyone working or living locally to leave their desk and discover nature on their doorstep.

Pavement along the roads (20%) Quiet road sections (60%) Thacka Beck nature reserve loose stone (15%) roadside loose stone and gravel footpaths (5%).

Please note that some of the rough stone paths around the reserve are sloping. The rest of the route is tarmac, pavement and some narrow gravel pathways. There are short sections of pavement on this route that adjoin busy roads.

Please be aware of livestock whilst walking in the countryside, most cows and sheep on public right of ways are safe but stay alert to the potential risk to you and your walking party, especially with cows and calves (see the link for more info. to stay safe). Keep your dog on a lead around all livestock, even if your dog is especially well-behaved, the poor sheep don’t know this! Especially in lambing time, try to leave the field as calm as you found it. To learn more about walking in the countryside around farm animals please visit: Countryside Walking Tips: Safety Around Livestock at: www.rspcaassured.org.uk/farmed-animal-welfare/other-animal-welfare-concerns/advice-for-walking-in-the-countryside/