Welcome to

Walkmill Community Woodland

A place where community, nature, and history come together.

A serene park scene at Walkmill Community Woodland with a leafless tree, picnic tables, a small stream, grassy areas, and a cloudy sky reflected in the water.
A minimalist, neon-style illustration of a bee flying towards a pink flower on a black background.
A person sitting on a yellow paddleboard at Walkmill Community Woodland in West Cumbria on a calm body of water, wearing a life jacket and holding a paddle.

From Coal Mine to Nature Escape

Once a coal mine, now a wildlife haven with two miles of accessible paths winding through riverside trails, woodlands, and a beautiful hidden valley.

Download our family-friendly trail map - designed for kids to explore the rich history of the site, spot wildlife, and embark on thrilling, themed adventures.

Download trail map

A muddy trail through a forested area with leafless trees on both sides, under an overcast sky, before the regeneration of Walkmill Community Woodland.
A speech bubble with the word 'Before' written inside.
A gravel walking trail winding through a lush green forest with trees and grass on both sides, after the regeration of Walkmill Community Woodland
The word "After" written in bold black letters on a yellow background.
Abstract background with wavy green and dark gray shapes.

What’s on

There’s always something happening at Walkmill. Explore our exciting line-up of events, hands-on activities, volunteering sessions, and educational experiences for all ages. From seasonal celebrations and guided walks to forest school sessions - there’s never a dull moment.

See what’s on

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Discover Walkmill

Visiting Walkmill

Whether you’re bringing the kids for outdoor adventures, keen to explore nature, or just looking for a peaceful day out, Walkmill has plenty to offer. Follow the link below to discover everything you need to know about getting here, site access, amenities, and how to make the most of your visit.

Plan your visit

Volunteering

This is your chance to help cultivate something truly special - a beautiful, thriving space right in the heart of the community at Moresby Parks. We’re bringing nature back, improving habitats, and creating a welcoming place for people and wildlife alike - and we’d love you to be part of it. Come along, get stuck in, meet great people, and see the difference you can make with your own two hands. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or just curious to give it a go, everyone is welcome.

Volunteer with us

Follow our progress

We’re always excited to share our latest news! From habitat improvements to new community features, our news and blog will keep you updated with the latest transformations happening at Walkmill. To be the first to know what’s changing and how you can get involved, join our mailing list.

News and blog

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One foot in the past

Uncover the fascinating mining heritage of the site and hear stories from the people who once worked here.

Walkmill’s landscape holds the echoes of its industrial past – from hidden relics to subtle features in the land, remnants of the mining days can still be seen, quietly waiting to be discovered. Explore the rich history beneath your feet and step into the stories of the generations who shaped this place.

The history of Walkmill

A picture of Wlakmill Colliery, circa 1890s. An old black and white photograph of a rural industrial scene with a small church, buildings, a water tower structure, and a body of water in the foreground.
Abstract black and white wave pattern.
Illustration of a brown circular tag or coin with a small black hole near the top edge.

footpaths (km)

3475

A simple cartoon drawing of a brown moving target with a black circle at the top center.
Close-up of a 20 paise Indian coin with design details and inscriptions.

river restored (m)

500

A brown circular tag with a small black hole at the top.
Close-up of a 20 paise coin from India with the denomination and inscription in Hindi.

trees planted

4900

Close-up of a round, brown cookie with a black hole in the top left.

event participants

1399

Close-up of a 20 paise coin with Hindi and English inscriptions.

TOTAL
volunteer
hours

3352
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TOTAL
volunteer
value

£67040
Colorful outline drawings of various flowers and leaves in pink, orange, and green.

A vibrant space for wildlife and the local community

“Everyone loves coming to Walkmill - whether it’s families or wheelchair users who’ve loved exploring the new paths. The Tale Trail map for little ones is a lovely blend of folklore, history, and wildlife information that keeps everyone engaged, and if you’re lucky you could have some memorable wildlife encounters too.”

Jenny Garbe, Project Manager

The future of Walkmill

As our woodland project moves towards completion in 2027, we want to make sure the amazing work lasts for years to come. That’s why we’re setting up the Friends of Walkmill – a friendly volunteer group who help look after the site on behalf of Moresby Parish Council.

There’s no legal responsibility, just a chance to get involved with things like maintaining paths and signs, keeping the site safe, and organising fun events or volunteer days. You can also learn new skills, from funding applications to site management.

Friends of Walkmill

A huge thank you to our supporters - your backing has made a real difference.

Your support has underpinned everything we’ve been able to achieve at Walkmill, helping us create a space where both people and nature can thrive. From habitat restoration to community engagement, your contribution has been at the heart of it all. We’re proud to have you with us on this journey - and excited for what’s still to come.

Blue circular logo with a cartoon hand making a finger heart gesture, smiling, and the words 'Made possible with Heritage Fund' around the top and 'Heritage Fund' below.
Four organization logos arranged in a 2x2 grid. Top left logo: pink background with white and black text for Sellafield Ltd's Six Social Impact Multiplied program. Top right logo: green tree icon with green text for Environment Agency. Bottom left logo: blue and white design with text for West Cumbria Rivers Trust. Bottom right logo: green background with white text for Moresby Parish Council.