FOR many people, their daily walks have been their solace during lockdown.

It’s given people a chance to explore their surroundings and discover beautiful areas that they never knew existed.

Restaurants and surrounding shops may be closed- but some local café and coffee shops have decided to remain open for takeaway services only.

We have tracked down three Carlisle walking routes with a nearby coffee shop that’s open for business.

This means you can spice up your regular walking route by enjoying a hot drink on the journey.

However, it’s important to note that these walking routes are only suitable for people who live locally and who can embark on them in accordance with lockdown rules.

River Caldew Path

This easy walking route should take less than two hours and is suitable for walkers of any skill levels.

The picturesque route will take you on a loop along the River Caldew and It’s the ideal trial if you are looking for some peace and tranquillity.

Other people who have embarked on this route said they saw some cows during their walk.

Heron have also been spotted along the river, along with some kingfishers- so keep your eyes peeled.

Annie’s Café, Bank Street, is one of the closest places that is open for takeaway and it’s less than a ten minute walk from this route’s start point.

(Facebook/Annie’s Café)

While you are there, it would be almost criminal not to sample on of their yummy looking sweet treats.

Boxes of waffles and doughnuts can be collected- check their Facebook page for updates.

It’s open: Monday to Saturday- 8am-5pm
Sunday- 10:30am- 4pm

View the full route on alltrails.com

Chances Park Walk

This circular walk is quick, easy and accessible.

In total, the route is 1.2km long and will take you less than half an hour to complete.

The park is the only one in in Carlisle to win a Green Flag award which is the national standard for publicly accessible parks and green spaces.

On the journey you will encounter the striking Morton Manor which was once home to the Ferguson family who owned Holmehead textile mill.

As well as the historic building, visitor will also get to walk among some beautifully landscaped gardens.

The area is home to some truly quirky and unusual trees, including turkey oak.

Gatehouse Café on Richardson Street is a great stop off point before starting out on this walking route.

(Facebook/Gatehouse Café)

While you are grabbing a drink, why not treat yourself to a sweet treat or slab of cake too?

You can find the full walking route on the Active Cumbria Website.

Kingmoor North Nature Reserve, Carlisle

News and Star: The nature reserveThe nature reserve

(Photo: Geograph/Rose and Trev Clough)

This circular loop is less than a mile long but ideal for those who really want to immerse themselves in nature.

It was once the site of a horse racing course, but now it’s a much more relaxing place where people can enjoy their walk in the woods.

Claire’s Kitchen, Parkhill Road is just a ten minute walk from the starting point.

(Facebook/Claire’s Kitchen)

As well as hot drinks, they also serve breakfast batches which you can tuck into before your walk.

Opening hours are: Monday-Friday- 7:30am-2pm.
Saturday- 7am-12pm

If you want to try the trail for yourself, then visit the All Trails website.

Where is your favourite walking route in Carlisle?