Broughton Railway Walk (Lake District)
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The Broughton Railway walk takes you along a quiet stretch of old railway near the historic market town of Broughton-in-Furness. This easy path leads through open fields and calm woodland, following the old railway that once served the copper mines near Coniston.
This walk is about 2.8 miles (4.5 km) there and back, so it’s a gentle choice if you want an easy, dog-friendly walk in the Lake District. The mostly flat path follows the old railway, giving you a relaxing route through fields and woods.
Begin in Broughton-in-Furness and follow the old railway line west. When you’re ready, head back the same way.
This walk is also featured in our guide to the 50 Best Dog Walks in the Lake District.
WALK OVERVIEW
Distance: 2.8 miles (4.5 km) return
Route type: Linear (1.4 miles each way)
Difficulty: Easy
OS Map: Explorer OL6
Terrain: Mostly level path along a former railway line with compacted stone and earth surfaces
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ROUTE DETAILS
Start your walk in the center of Broughton-in-Furness, a small market town on the southern edge of the Lake District National Park.
From the town, take the path that joins the old Coniston Railway line. This railway used to carry people and goods between the coastal railway at Foxfield and the copper mines near Coniston.
The path now follows the old railway through peaceful countryside, making for a pleasant and mostly flat walk. As you go, you’ll see open fields, hedgerows, and small patches of woodland.
Since the route follows the old railway, the path stays gentle for most of the walk. This makes it one of the easier and more accessible walks in this part of the Lake District.
Along the way, you’ll spot remains of the railway’s history, like embankments and cuttings that once carried trains through the countryside.
This quiet countryside path is also a great dog-friendly walk, especially if you’re staying near Broughton-in-Furness or on the quieter western side of the national park. Remember to keep dogs under control around farm animals and wildlife.
When you reach the end of the accessible part of the old railway, just turn around and head back to Broughton.
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ACCESSIBILITY NOTES
This route is part of the Miles Without Stiles collection by the Lake District National Park, which highlights accessible walks across the region.
Key points to consider:
Level path following the line of a former railway
Generally smooth surface with compacted stone and earth
The path is wide enough for many wheelchairs, pushchairs, and mobility scooters.
Occasional gates along the route
The route is graded “for all,” so it’s suitable for most visitors who want an easier walk with gentle slopes.
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START POINT
Location: Broughton-in-Furness
Postcode: LA20 6HJ
Grid reference: SD 213878
What3Words: ///acclaimed.unfolds.wanted
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TURNING POINT
Location: End of the accessible railway path
Grid reference: SD 195874
What3Words: ///pushy.swimsuits.swooned
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FACILITIES
You’ll find public toilets, cafés, pubs, and small shops in Broughton-in-Furness at the start of the walk.
This traditional Lakeland town is a nice place to stop before or after your walk.
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GETTING THERE
By Car
Take the A595 along Cumbria’s west coast, then turn inland to reach Broughton-in-Furness. You can park in the town center, close to where the walk begins.
By Bus
Local buses link Broughton-in-Furness with Ulverston, Coniston, and Barrow-in-Furness, but services may be limited.
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LOOKING FOR MORE ROUTES?
Explore our guide to the 50 Best Dog Walks in the Lake District.
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Disclaimer: We do our best to provide accurate information, but please double-check details independently before making any plans based on this article.
Planning a Dog Friendly Lake District Break
Walks like the Broughton Railway route are perfect for relaxed countryside outings with your dog. The flat path and quiet setting make it a great choice if you want an easier walk away from the busier parts of the Lake District.
Many people choose to stay in the quieter southern and western parts of the national park so they can enjoy walks like this and other dog-friendly routes in the Lake District.
Take a look at our dog-friendly Lake District cottages to find the perfect place for your next walking holiday.
