The best walks and hikes around Piel Island

Piel Island is accessible via a seasonal passenger ferry that runs from Roa Island, typically from April to September. The starting point for the ferry is the slipway on Roa Island. It's best to check the current operating times before you travel, which you can find on the Barrow Borough Council website.

Yes, it is possible to walk from Walney Island to Piel Island at low tide, but this is a potentially dangerous route across the sands of Morecambe Bay. It should only be attempted with an experienced local guide who understands the tides and channels. Do not attempt this walk on your own.

Absolutely. The region is known for its gentle, low-lying terrain, making it ideal for walkers of all abilities. Most routes are classified as easy, with minimal elevation gain. A great family-friendly option on the mainland with views of the island is the View of Piel Island and Castle – Abandoned Boat at Rampside loop from Rampside, which is a short and flat coastal walk.

Dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths around the Furness Peninsula. However, when visiting nature reserves like Foulney Island, restrictions may apply, especially during bird nesting season (typically spring and early summer). Always keep dogs under control, particularly near coastal wildlife and livestock.

There are nearly 100 hiking routes to explore on and around the Furness Peninsula. The trails range from short, easy coastal strolls to longer, more moderate hikes, offering plenty of options for a full day of walking.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the expansive coastal views across Morecambe Bay and the flat, accessible nature of the paths.

Yes, many of the routes in the area are circular. For a longer loop that explores a bit more of the mainland coast, consider the Old Line Walk – Old Line Walk loop from Rampside. This moderate trail follows a former railway line, offering a different perspective on the landscape.

The most prominent historical landmark is the 14th-century Piel Castle, a ruin managed by English Heritage that you can explore on the island itself. Many mainland walks, such as the View of Piel Castle – Walney Lighthouse loop from Roa Island, offer excellent views of the castle from across the water.

The area is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. The waters around Piel Island are home to Cumbria's only colony of grey seals, which are often spotted from the ferry. The shoreline and nearby reserves like South Walney Nature Reserve are also excellent for birdwatching, with a wide variety of seabirds and waders.

The walk circumnavigating Piel Island is a leisurely coastal path of about 1.5 miles (2.4 km). It follows grassy paths and the beach, taking less than an hour at a relaxed pace, leaving plenty of time to explore the castle and visit the Ship Inn.

Yes, while many routes are short, there are options for a longer day out. The Rape Haw loop from Biggar on nearby Walney Island is a moderate hike of over 5.5 miles (9 km) that explores the island's southern coastline.

There is public parking available on Roa Island, close to the ferry departure point. It can get busy during peak season and sunny weekends, so arriving early is a good idea.