John Dalton Walk - Cockermouth, Cumbria

Walk the John Dalton Way

A 45km footpath starting in Cockermouth that links the development of atomic theory, the scenery and villages of West Cumbria and the 250th anniversary of the birth of John Dalton.

Guide to the John Dalton Walk.

This walk was created to celebrate the 250th anniversary of John Dalton's birth and links Cockermouth with Seascale. It is 45km long and can be completed over two days, or in five shorter sections, using existing footpaths. John Dalton was born in 1766 in Eaglesfield, near Cockermouth, and is best known for his discoveries of atomic theory and colour blindness. The walk links Dalton's birthplace with Cockermouth then on to Calder Hall, the first commercial atomic power station in the world when it was commissioned in 1956. The walk, and the associated Guide Booklet, celebrates the development of atomic theory over the intervening 200 years. The walk itself not only links areas of interest to John Dalton and atomic theory, it passes alongside some of the most beautiful countryside in England on the north-western fringes of the Lake District, including views of Scotland and the Isle of Man. It follows the River Calder for a while, passes Calder Hall and finally ends on the coast. Picturesque villages encountered include Eaglesfield, Dean, Ulloch, Mockerkin, Lamplugh, Ennerdale Bridge, Calder Bridge and finally Seascale. For the serious walker, the walk can be easily done in two days, taking a break at Ennerdale Bridge at just over halfway. It is recommended, however, that a break is also made at Mockerkin so that time can be taken to linger at the many points of interest on the way. Of course the walk can also be staged over individual days by just walking single sections from village to village. For each leg, this guide booklet provides a general overview, an outline map and detailed instructions, including map references, distances and guide times excluding rest and sight-seeing stops. Copies of the booklet are available in Cockermouth from the Tourist Information Centre and the New Book Shop.