Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve
Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve
3.9
(82)
491
hikers
27
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve traverse a diverse landscape on the Solway Plain. This area features a mosaic of habitats, including extensive woodlands of Scots pine, birch, and rowan trees. The terrain is generally flat, encompassing peat bogs, heathland, rough pasture, and mire. Historical hedge banks, known as "kests," are also present throughout the reserve.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
2
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
13
hikers
7.58km
01:55
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.5
(2)
8
hikers
8.58km
02:10
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(7)
18
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This is the place where one of the most formidable English monarchs died when he developed fever during a campaign against the Scots in 1307. This is where Edward the First died, and being an iconic historical figure, this small, quaint monument was erected in his honour in 2007.
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Bowness-on-Solway is best known as being the western end of the iconic Hadrian's Wall. There is a small shelter here to mark the start of this national trail. You will not see much of the wall until after Carlisle, but the wall did originally start at the village with even more forts further down the coast. Being an estuary, this area is also a haven for wildlife and birdwatching.
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In 1823, a 11.5 mile canal was dug to link the Solway Firth to Carlisle for the transport by barge of heavy goods. The canal was eventually filled in and replaced by a railway line.
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The King Edward I Monument in Burgh by Sands is an impressive and historic memorial marking the spot where King Edward I died in 1307 during his campaign against Scotland. The king died here on 7 July 1307, while preparing to attack Robert the Bruce, his Scottish adversary. Originally built in 1685, it is made of red sandstone and is now a Grade II listed monument* in England. The monument stands alone in the landscape, surrounded by a metal fence, and bears an inscription describing Edward I as the "Hammer of the Scots."
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For cyclists, it's not worthwhile to continue. There's a double lock here, keeping cyclists out. And beyond that, you're in a swampy marsh, which somewhat discourages you from continuing on foot. But here you can also admire the large monument.
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Drumburgh Castle in Cumbria was built in 1307 as a pele tower on a Roman foundation of Hadrian's Wall, using reused Roman sandstone. In 1518, it was converted into a fortified house, a so-called bastle house, which features defensive features such as loopholes and blank walls. The building even includes an integrated Roman altar and bears the Dacre coat of arms. As a Grade I-listed building, it is of exceptional heritage importance, but it is currently privately owned and not open to the public.
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Originally built in the 12th century on the remains and with stones from the Roman fort of Aballava, part of Hadrian's Wall, King Edward I died near this site in 1307. His body lay in state here before being transferred to Westminster Abbey. It is one of only three surviving fortified churches in Cumbria and has two towers: The west tower has wrought-iron gates, arrow slits, and a crenellated roof—originally built as a shelter during border conflicts. The east tower was later lowered and served as a schoolroom in the 18th century. The architecture is a mix of Norman and Gothic. A decorated entrance features beakhead motifs (a rare Romanesque detail). Stained glass windows depict northern saints and King Edward I. A Roman corbel is set into the wall.
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The statue of King Edward I is located in Burgh by Sands—the place where he died in 1307 during a military campaign against Scotland. Created in 2007 by artist Christopher Kelly, the statue depicts Edward I, also known as Longshanks, in a stately pose wearing medieval armor.
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There are nearly 30 hiking routes in Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve that are easily accessible from bus stations. These trails offer a variety of experiences, ranging from easy strolls through woodlands to more moderate walks across heathland and rough pasture.
Yes, the reserve is known for its generally flat terrain, making it ideal for families. Many routes are considered easy, with some even suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. For an easy walk, consider the Glasson Moss – Glasson Moss Boardwalk loop from Drumburgh, which is around 7.5 km and takes about 2 hours.
Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve boasts a diverse mosaic of habitats. You'll encounter extensive semi-natural woodlands with Scots pine, birch, and rowan trees, alongside significant areas of peat bogs, heathland, rough pasture, and lowland wet heath. The generally flat terrain makes these features accessible to a wide range of visitors.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails within Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve. However, to protect ground-nesting birds and grazing cattle, it is essential that dogs are kept on a lead at all times.
Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover several unique points of interest. Look for the historic Chalybeate Well, a stone structure marking a sulphate-rich spring. The woodlands also feature various charming sculptures, including carved insects and a 'secret door' with carved larvae, adding an element of discovery to your walk. An intricately carved bench serves as a memorial to Derek Ratcliffe.
The reserve offers something year-round. Spring and summer are excellent for spotting diverse wildlife, including numerous bird species and butterflies like the rare marsh fritillary (late May to June). The generally flat terrain means trails are accessible even in wetter conditions, though autumn offers beautiful foliage and winter provides a quiet, serene experience. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, many of the routes accessible from bus stops in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point. For example, the Molly's Path – Bowness-on-Solway loop from Drumburgh is a moderate 8.5 km circular route that takes you through varied landscapes.
Finglandrigg Woods is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, roe deer, otters, badgers, and brown hares. Birdwatchers can spot over 40 breeding species, including buzzards, tawny owls, and various warblers. The heathland is home to butterflies like the small pearl-bordered fritillary and ringlet, and you might even see common lizards or adders basking on warm days.
The trails in Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve are generally considered easy to moderate, thanks to the mostly flat terrain. There are 14 easy routes and 12 moderate routes, with only one classified as difficult. This makes the area suitable for a wide range of hikers, from beginners to those looking for a longer, more engaging walk without significant elevation changes.
The komoot community rates the trails in Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve highly, with an average score of 3.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the diverse natural habitats, and the abundance of wildlife. Many appreciate the well-maintained, accessible paths and the opportunity to explore both woodlands and open heathland.
While the terrain is generally flat, you can find longer routes that offer a good workout. For a moderate challenge, consider the Statue of Edward I – King Edward I Monument loop from Burgh by Sands, which covers nearly 12 km and takes around 3 hours. This route provides a good distance for those looking to spend more time exploring.
Yes, the landscape itself holds historical interest. You can observe historical 'kests' (hedge banks) dating back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries, remnants of the Enclosure Acts. Additionally, routes like the King Edward I Monument – Old Sandfield Farmhouse loop from Burgh by Sands will take you past significant historical markers.


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