The Lake District has a very extensive Rights of Way network. There are over 3000km of public paths within the National Park, but only a fraction of their length is accessible to all. Those with more limited mobility find it harder to use paths that have an awkward surface, a steep gradient or stiles to get over.

'Miles Without Stiles' is a project headed by the Lake District National Park Authority that aims to improve access to the landscape of the Lake District for all. The National Park Authority is currently promoting 21 routes throughout the Park as Miles Without Stiles paths, a total length of just over 80km. These routes are perfect for those with limited mobility - not just for wheelchair users but also families with pushchairs or those who find walking a challenge. The Miles Without Stiles project aims to improve the current routes and also increase the total route length to 88km by 2011 - creating a kilometer and a half of easy-access path per year.

More easy-to-access routes to help the young experience our natural environment from an even earlier age. More opportunities for our increasingly ageing population to continue to get out to places they love. More of our society, of whatever ability, will be able to explore our National Park.

Businesses Supporting this Project

Cycle Active

Lake District Disabled Holidays

Lakeland Hideaways

The Wild Boar