Trying to keep active during this second national lockdown?

The current restriction require everyone in England to stay at home unless it is for a specific reason

However, we can still exercise outdoors in lockdown meaning we can explore the most beautiful walking routes in North and West Cumbria with our free time.

There are some truly fantastic walking routes in the region; not only do they allow you to keep active, they also let you explore places in the area which you might not have visited before.

You can embark on these walks with the people you live with, or you can meet up with one person from another household.

Here are five walking routes to embark on during lockdown:

The Hadrian’s Wall Path, Carlisle

This iconic walking route takes you along the famous World Heritage Site of Hadrian’s wall.

It is 84 miles long and would take around a week to hike the entire thing.

News and Star: The remains of the Birdoswald Roman FortThe remains of the Birdoswald Roman Fort

(Photo: Geograph/ Ian Taylor)

However, if you’re looking for a short outdoor adventure, you could walk along a portion of the wall in Carlisle.

This route should only take around two hours and starts at the Birdoswald Roman Fort car park.

During the walk, you can admire the remains of the forts along the route.

Talkin Fell, Brampton

If you are looking for a relatively short and simple walk to occupy your time during lockdown, the Talkin Fell route could be the ideal solution.

Starting at Castle Carrock in Brampton, there is plenty to see on this 7km route including limestone quarries.

Once you reach the top of Talkin Fell, you will be amazed at the stunning views- you can see for miles across the Cumbrian fields and countrysides.

You can find the full route on the cumbria.gov website.

River Caldew Path, Carlisle.

News and Star: The River CaldewThe River Caldew

(Photo: Geograph/JThomas)

This easy walking route should take less than two hours and is suitable for walkers of any skill levels.

The picturesque route will take you on a loop along the River Caldew and It’s the ideal trial if you are looking for some peace and tranquility.

Other people who have emarked on this route said they saw some cows during their walk.

Heron have also been spotted along the river, along with some kingfishers- so keep your eyes peeled.

View the full route on alltrails.com

Dandy Railway, Brampton

This walking route is six and a half miles long and starts at Brampton Station.

On the route, you will learn more about the ‘Dandy’ railway lines and other places of historical significance in the area.

On the route you will pass Oulton House- which is considered to be one of the oldest buildings in Brampton.

Arguably, the best part of the walk is when you enter the Gelt Woods and follow the Gelt river.

View this routes and other in the area on the Brampton Parish Council website.

Wordsworth House walk, Cockermouth

News and Star: Wordsworth HouseWordsworth House

(Photo: Geograph/David Dixon)

This scenic walk starts at Wordsworth House in Cockermouth, which is the birthplace of notable poet William Wordsworth.

The challenging trek is eight miles long and should take around three hours- but it’s well worth it if you need to get out of the house during lockdown.

During the walk, you will pass through Hills Wood and even take the bridge over the River Derwent which was Wordsworth’s favourite river.

You can find the full walking route on the National Trust website.