Staveley combines a long industrial heritage with opportunities for cycling and enjoying nature. When planning, it is worth distinguishing between routes by their character: one cycling route heads towards Windermere, while trails along the River Kent and activities in Staveley Woodlands offer different experiences.
Cycling and riverside trails
The “Lakeland Fringes” cycling route starts and ends at Staveley Mill Yard. From Staveley, it follows the traffic-free section of National Cycle Network Route 6 to Windermere, then returns via quiet country roads. The loop is 10 miles (16 km) long; a 7-mile (11 km) shortcut is available for the return journey. This means the stated full loop and the shorter return journey can be considered as different route options.
“Staveley Riverside” offers a different type of route. One section follows a flat path along the River Kent, while another runs along a small paved road. The route returns to Staveley Mill Yard and offers views towards Kentmere Valley. This puts a designated cycling loop alongside a riverside route with its own landscape setting, although the information given does not specify a walking time for the latter.
Woodland trails and practical planning
At Staveley Woodlands Nature Reserve, the “Paws and Claws Trail” invites families to discover ten species that live in the woodland and their tracks, using clues and information boards. The circular trail in Craggy Wood is 1.2 kilometres long. The two offerings have different focuses: the trail draws attention to species and tracks, while the circular route’s length provides a specific point of reference for planning.
Due to a road closure near Staveley Woodlands Nature Reserve, access is restricted until April 2027; the reserve remains accessible via the Craggy Wood gate. Check access arrangements before your trip, especially if you plan to visit.
For journeys in the surrounding area, the “Staveley Community Ebike Scheme” has two e-bikes named Reston and Craggy. They are based at Staveley Mill Yard and can be used for a usage-based fee. As availability should be confirmed before travelling, it is advisable to check in advance.
The bus can also be a factor when planning your journey: the 555 bus from Kendal to Windermere stops in Staveley hourly until early evening. Check the timetable again before your trip to ensure your plans match the departure time.
Mill history and churches
The town’s industrial history goes back a long way: a fulling mill was operating in Staveley in 1341. Historically, the River Kent was vital to local industry; once, more than 30 mills depended on its water power. The 19th-century mill buildings in Staveley were built for processing wool, woodworking and grinding grain, and were later adapted for other uses. Together, these facts tell the story of an industry whose uses changed over time.
The churches also reflect different periods in the town’s history. The Church of St James in Over Staveley is a Grade II listed building. J. S. Crowther built it in 1864–1865. As of June 2026, the church had been closed for twelve months due to structural problems with the tower cap and the lychgate. Check access before visiting, as this dated situation may change.
Only the tower remains of the former St Margaret’s in Staveley. The church was demolished in 1865; the tower is said to have been founded in 1388. The two churches thus offer different historical points of reference: St James has a stated construction period and architect, while St Margaret’s is notable for its surviving tower and the recorded story of its foundation.
Discover more destinations: Dalston, Eskdale, Grasmere, Applethwaite, Embleton, Arnside, Calthwaite, Dockray
For the main travel overview: Cumbria.
