Stage 5 of the Cumbria Way runs Caldbeck to Carlisle: about 14.9 miles (23.9 km) with around 171 m of ascent and a high point of 216 m. It's rated Easy and takes most walkers 5–6 hours. An easy finale leaving the National Park and following the River Caldew through Sebergham and Dalston into the historic city of Carlisle.
Free and un-gated, no sign-up. Waymarks are patchy, so carry the GPX with you.
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Elevation Profile
Elevation derived from the route GPX sampled against a digital elevation model (Open-Meteo (Copernicus DEM)). Figures are approximate.
Key Facts
The Route & What to Expect
Leaving Caldbeck, the route soon joins the River Caldew and stays close to it almost all the way to Carlisle. It passes through Sebergham, Buckabank and Dalston on riverside paths, woodland tracks and well-graded cycleway.
This is the flattest and fastest day of the walk. The fells fall away behind you as the river leads into the centre of Carlisle, where the castle and cathedral make a fine finish. Riverside paths can be diverted after flood damage, so check for local notices.
Closure at Dalston (from 20 July 2026, for up to six months): about 600 m of the Caldew Cycleway and the footpath beside it, behind Caldew School, are closed for United Utilities works at Dalston pumping station. Walkers can use the open part of the footpath and the pavements along Carlisle Road through Dalston instead. Check Cumberland Council's notices before you go, as the closure may end early or be extended.
Getting to the Start & Finish
Mid-way: Dalston station is on the Cumbrian Coast Line into Carlisle, useful if you need to shorten the day. Finish: Carlisle station is on the West Coast Main Line (London, Glasgow and the North West), with the Settle–Carlisle and Tyne Valley lines as well.
Always check current timetables. Rural services are limited in the evenings, on Sundays and in winter.
Where to Stay & Eat
Carlisle has plenty of hotels, guesthouses, pubs and restaurants for a celebration at the end of the walk. Dalston has a small supermarket and cafés halfway, and Caldbeck has a shop for supplies before you set off.
Accommodation or café near Carlisle?
Walkers use this page to plan where to stop on Stage 5 of the Cumbria Way. Advertise here free for 6 months, with no obligation to continue.
Become a Trail Partner →Stage 5 FAQs
Our GPX measures 14.9 miles (23.9 km) from Caldbeck to Carlisle. It's mostly gently downhill beside the River Caldew, making it the easiest stage. Allow 5 to 6 hours.
Carlisle station is on the West Coast Main Line, with direct trains to London, Glasgow, Manchester and Birmingham. The Settle–Carlisle, Tyne Valley and Cumbrian Coast lines also start there.
Yes. You can download a free Stage 5 GPX (Caldbeck to Carlisle) from this page, with no sign-up. Full-route and all-stage files are on our Cumbria Way GPX page.
Continue the Walk
All five stages, itineraries and transport: Cumbria Way guide · Kit & safety