Last updated 12:16, Friday, 25 July 2008

FOR those who think that the cross-England Walk is too strenuous and other long distance walks are simply too long, help is at hand.

booklet: Rosalinde Downing outside St Bega's Church

What is described as a short, long-distance walk has been suggested and an extremely clear and attractive booklet has been published, not only to explain the route but to give comments on what can be seen on the way.

St Bega’s Way has been written by Rosalinde Downing and contains many attractive sketches, with more than a hint of Wainwright about them, by Alistair Brewis.

The walk will take you from the ancient Priory at St Bees to the pre-Norman church of St Bega’s at Bassenthwaite.

St Bega’s Way follows in some of Wainwright’s footsteps taking the easier route from St Bees to Ennerdale, then up the Ennerdale valley crossing into Borrowdale and on to St Bega’s Bassenthwaite via Derwentwater.

This is a three-day walk, a mere 36 miles, from rural West Cumbria through to one of the most delightful parts of the Lake District.

On the way you can find out about the legend of St Bega, both churches are dedicated to the saint, and learn about, amongst many other things, the origin of the word Kangol, the curious inscription on the bell of St Mary’s Church at Ennerdale and where to look out for two large wooden hands.

This walk would be an excellent way to spend a long weekend giving you a chance to forget some problems and lose a pound or two.

As it says in the introduction of the booklet: “Time to think, away from the commitments of home and work, surroundings of outstanding natural beauty, and locations of deep spiritual significance, all give tourists and especially walkers, the opportunity to become pilgrims.

“Whether seeking or committed to the Christian or another faith or none, it is still likely that you will get more out of this walk than mere healthy exercise.

“The glories of the natural world will undoubtedly lift your spirits whether you see them bathed in sunshine or battle through them against the elements.”

The booklet is published by the Credo Appeal Committee Bassenthwaite PCC and costs £4.50 including postage. Available from Ros Downing, Langside, Bassenthwaite CA12 4QH. For further details visit www.stbegasway.co.uk.

Chris Robson