Walls Drive, Ravenglass Walk (Lake District)
Explore the best of Cumbria
The Walls Drive walk in Ravenglass is a short, historic route along the Esk estuary on the Lake District’s west coast. This easy walk starts in the village and takes you to the impressive remains of the Roman Bath House, one of England’s tallest surviving Roman buildings.
At 2.2 km (1.4 miles) return, this is a good choice if you want a short, dog-friendly walk in the Lake District. The path follows a quiet lane and estuary before reaching the historic site locals call Walls Castle.
Begin in the coastal village of Ravenglass, then follow the road and path to the Roman Bath House. 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: 1.4 miles (2.2 km) return
Route type: Linear
Difficulty: Easy
OS Map: Explorer OL6
Terrain: Tarmac lane and gravel path with gentle gradients
—
ROUTE DETAILS
Start your walk in the small coastal village of Ravenglass, where the rivers Esk, Mite, and Irt flow into the Irish Sea. Ravenglass has a rich history and was once an important Roman naval base.
From the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway station car park, exit and turn right to go under the railway bridge. Follow the quiet road past the caravan site entrance, then continue onto the private tarmac lane called Walls Drive.
The path gently follows the estuary, offering open views of the coastal landscape. This peaceful section is perfect for a relaxed stroll and taking in the scenery.
After about 1 km, you’ll reach the highlight of the walk: the remains of the Roman Bath House, which was part of the Roman fort of Glannoventa built around AD 130.
The bath house is very well preserved, with walls about 4 metres high and measuring roughly 15 by 30 metres. It’s one of the largest Roman structures still standing in England.
Information panels share the site’s history, and there’s a bench nearby where you can rest before heading back to Ravenglass.
This easy route is also a great dog-friendly walk, especially if you’re staying near the quieter western side of the national park. Remember to keep dogs under control around wildlife and livestock.
—
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 or gently sloping surfaces
Mostly tarmac and compacted gravel paths
Suitable for many wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and pushchairs
Some short sections on quiet roads without pavements
The route is graded “for all,” so it’s suitable for many visitors who want an easier walk.
—
START POINT
Location: Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway Station Car Park
Postcode: CA18 1SN
Grid reference: SD 086965
What3Words: ///detection.shakes.dusters
—
TURNING POINT
Location: Ravenglass Roman Bath House
Grid reference: SD 089958
What3Words: ///adjusted.alas.prettiest
—
FACILITIES
Facilities are available in Ravenglass village, including:
Public toilets
Cafés and tea rooms
Pubs and a hotel
Parking in the village and at the railway station
Accessible toilets and a café are also open at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway station when the railway is running.
—
GETTING THERE
By Car
Take the A595 along Cumbria’s west coast and turn off for Ravenglass. You can park at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway station car park or in the village.
By Train
Ravenglass has a station on the Cumbrian Coast Line, with trains to Lancaster, Workington, and Carlisle.
You can also take the scenic Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, which travels from the coast into Eskdale.
—
LOOKING FOR MORE ROUTES?
Explore our guide to the 50 Best Dog Walks in the Lake District.
—
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
Short walks like Walls Drive are perfect if you want something gentle with lots of history and great views. The quiet coast and level paths make it a relaxing way to explore the western Lake District with your dog.
Many visitors choose to stay nearby so they can enjoy this walk and other dog-friendly routes in the Lake District, especially in the quieter coastal areas.
Browse our dog-friendly Lake District cottages to find the perfect base for your next walking holiday.
