Written by Carrie-Ann Lightly, August 30, 2024
Accessing the countryside can be challenging for disabled people, whether the barriers are caused by terrain, gates and stiles, or unsuitable mobility equipment. So, it’s always exciting to find new wheelchair accessible walks, with all-terrain equipment hire options that allow me to enjoy outdoor adventures. Talkin Tarn Country Park near Carlisle, Cumbria offers all of this and more.
The wheelchair accessible walk around Talkin Tarn is ideal for disabled people and those with young children. Continue reading to learn more about my experience of this accessible walk and how you can hire a Tramper all terrain mobility vehicle at Talkin Tarn.
Disclaimer: this post is part of a paid collaboration with the North Pennines National Landscape team, who received funding from Defra’s Access for All programme to provide the Tramper.
Talkin Tarn Country Park
Talkin Tarn Country Park is located in Cumbria, near the village of Talkin and about two miles southeast of the market town of Brampton. The park is centred around Talkin Tarn, a 65-acre glacial lake, and is a popular spot for outdoor activities like walking, boating, and birdwatching. The area is known for its scenic beauty, with wooded areas and open spaces providing a peaceful setting for visitors.
Talkin Tarn Country Park hosts various events throughout the year, catering to different interests. These include outdoor activities like guided nature walks, wildlife talks, and fitness events like park runs. The park also occasionally hosts seasonal events, including Easter egg hunts, Christmas fairs, and craft workshops. The tarn is popular for water sports, with rowing regattas and sailing events taking place.
Read more: What’s On at Talkin Tarn Country Park
Blue Badge Parking at Talkin Tarn Country Park
If you’re planning a visit to Talkin Tarn Country Park and need Blue Badge parking, you’ll be glad to know that there are dedicated spaces available. These spots are conveniently located near the main entrance, ensuring easy access to the park’s amenities. Blue Badge holders can park for free for up to 3 hours. If you need to stay longer, the usual hourly charges will apply after this period.
The parking area is wheelchair accessible, making it easy to get from your vehicle to the park’s scenic paths. Keep in mind that the park is open daily from 10am to 6pm, so you can plan your visit accordingly.
Whether you’re there for a relaxing stroll, a picnic, or to take in the views, the accessible parking at Talkin Tarn makes it easier to enjoy everything the park has to offer.
Tramper All-Terrain Mobility Vehicle Hire at Talkin Tarn Country Park
Trampers are all-terrain mobility vehicles are safe and easy to use and perfect for enjoying more of the countryside.
What is a Tramper? Ideal if you have mobility needs and want to explore longer all-terrain routes.
All Trampers have a comfy seat, armrests, and large wheels for a safe and smooth ride. Twist-grip hand controls allow left or right-handed use. No action is required with your feet.
There is one Tramper available at Talkin Tarn and each session is 3hrs long.
The Talkin Tarn Country Park team will provide a full demonstration of the Tramper to ensure you feel confident before you leave the visitor centre, and can show you the designated Tramper route.
Book your Tramper Hire on the Outdoor Mobility website.
Wheelchair Accessible Walk around Talkin Tarn
Exploring the path around Talkin Tarn, which is 1.3 miles long, I was immediately struck by the serene atmosphere and the calming beauty of the water. The weather was cloudy but thankfully dry (a rarity in Cumbria!), and the cool air added to the tranquillity of the surroundings. As someone who loves being near water, this was the perfect walk for me.
From the car park, the route to the path was mostly flat, making it easy to navigate in my manual wheelchair before I transferred to the Tramper. The smooth, even surface of the trail was a pleasant surprise, and I didn’t face any challenges as I made my way around the tarn. This walk was not only accessible but also incredibly peaceful, allowing me to fully soak in the natural beauty of the area.
We stopped frequently to admire the views of the tarn from different vantage points, checking out the different sculptures around the park.
We met lots of locals out walking their dogs—my own dog, Poppy, had a great time and made plenty of new friends along the way!
Overall, the walk around Talkin Tarn was everything I could have hoped for—accessible, beautiful, and deeply relaxing. For anyone who loves being near water, this is a must-visit spot.
Wheelchair Accessible Toilets at Talkin Tarn
Toilet facilities are available in the car park including one wheelchair accessible toilet. The accessible toilet has pull down and fixed grab bars, and an emergency alarm.
There’s also a wheelchair accessible shower which has a fold down shower seat, pull down and fixed grab bars, and there is a changing bench next to the shower.
The facilities are open from 9am to 5pm daily.
The Boathouse Tea Room at Talkin Tarn
The Boathouse tea room is located on the waterfront, offering beautiful views of the tarn and hot and cold food made fresh daily.
We were so hungry after the walk! We enjoyed sausage sandwiches and got some yummy cakes to take home.
My favourite English Lakes ice cream is also sold, with a range of delicious flavours.
There’s even doggy ice cream, which Poppy loved!
The adjoining gift shop sells a range of locally made items like cute cards, mugs and games.
Final Thoughts on Talkin Tarn Country Park
If you’re on the hunt for a peaceful, wheelchair accessible walk in Cumbria, Talkin Tarn Country Park is a gem. The trail around the tarn is manageable, offering a smooth and scenic route that’s ideal for wheelchair users. With the added option of hiring a Tramper, you can explore even more of the stunning surroundings. Whether you visit in the crisp air of autumn or on a mild summer day, this park provides a relaxing escape into nature that’s easy to navigate and truly enjoyable.
