Rusland offers concrete points of interest for nature and history enthusiasts: a 22-hectare nature reserve, Greenwood Trails through varied landscapes, and local architectural and literary history. The Rusland Show also has a set date in August. When planning your trip, therefore, important considerations include which trails to take, historical connections and the date of the show.
Nature Reserve and Greenwood Trails
Rusland Moss National Nature Reserve lies at the head of Rusland Valley and covers 22 hectares. Greenwood Trail 1 follows gently undulating woodland paths, fields, stretches of moorland, a boardwalk and quiet country lanes. The Old Coffin Road also runs along this route. It was used in the Middle Ages to carry the dead for burial in consecrated ground. Trail 1 therefore brings together different types of paths and a specific history of burial.
The short and longer versions of Greenwood Trail 5 also differ in their scenery: the short route follows open fields alongside the tidal river “Rusland Pool,” through woodland and along a narrow road; the longer route includes riverside areas, mature woodland and rugged, open upland. This comparison can help you choose between the options based on the scenery, rather than length alone.
Parts of Greenwood Trail 5 may be impassable at certain times because of the tidal river. Tides and weather can affect walking conditions. Check local conditions before setting out: choosing the scenery and checking whether the route is passable on the day are two separate planning considerations.
Greenwood Trail 8 runs south to the church in Rusland. Alongside the landscapes of Trail 5, this gives you the option of a route with a named destination. When deciding, consider whether you are more interested in a particular type of scenery or a specifically named destination.
Church History and Literary Connections
The Church of St Paul was built in 1745 and rebuilt in 1868, except for the tower. The dates mark two different building phases: 1745 refers to its construction, while 1868 marks the later rebuilding, which excluded the tower. Arthur Ransome is buried beneath a Corsican pine in the southeast corner of the Church of St Paul churchyard. Architectural history and a specific literary connection are therefore found side by side.
The Rusland Show and When to Visit
The Rusland Show takes place on the third Saturday in August at Whitestock Meadow. It includes fell races, track races, egg throwing and tug-of-war. Gardening, homemade produce, handicrafts, photography and film are also exhibited. If the show is the main reason for your trip, check the event dates for your travel period in advance.
Two different factors matter when planning your travel dates: the date of the show and the tide-dependent passability of parts of Trail 5. If either affects your stay, take it into account when planning.
Discover more destinations: Lowick, Askam-In-Furness, Keswick, Bampton, Dent, Flookburgh, Ainstable, Waterhead
Return to the main travel overview: Cumbria.
