(Click on
to see a map of the start location.)
Orton, Cumbria.
From Manchester head north on M61 then M6 to junction 38. At the roundabout off the motorway, take the first left along the B6260 signposted to Orton. Follow this pleasant road for about 4 miles to Orton where, as you get to the centre of the village, the road curves round to the right. Don't go straight on (direction Shap), but take the next left, which leads to a kind of market square and park in front of the chocolate factory
Meet at the marketplace in the village of Orton (next to the famous chocolate factory!).
22km, approx 5 hours.
The surface is mostly good, with the occasional tractor track, so probably best for classic rather than skating.
It is recommended for experienced rollerskiers only as there are a lot of hills, both lengthy climbs and some long, quite fast descents.
Toilets and cafe at the start and end, but nothing en route, so packed lunches will definitely need to be carried.
This exciting new route (2006), which is almost all on quiet country roads, affords wonderful views of the Lakes and the Howgills. The route passes through several little hamlets and then heads over the moorland down to Sunbiggin Tarn. It makes for an excellent day's skiing but in a more challenging environment than the usual.
Details by MCCSC
Last updated 24-8-2009