World Car Free Day (September 22) is just around the corner and what better time to consider leaving the car at home and exploring Cumbria in a more sustainable way?

Whether going by bus, boat, bike or train, Cumbria’s sustainable travel choices are vast, varied and well connected.

With Stagecoach announcing that the £2 flat rate single bus fares are set to stay until at least the end of 2024, public transport is not only affordable but connections across the county make it easy to travel the length and breadth of Cumbria while enjoying a relaxing way to explore and admire the beautiful autumn colours.

Autumn and winter are optimal times to try out a sustainable travel day out, thanks to quieter roads and less busy locations as the peak tourism season begins to subside.

The 555 bus route from Kendal to Keswick has repeatedly been named as one of the best in the UK, taking in the likes of Windermere, Ambleside and Keswick.

Meanwhile, in the north of the county the X5 takes a route from Penrith to Cockermouth, connecting with other routes in Keswick, which allows ease of travel right into some of the most beautiful valleys such as Borrowdale and Buttermere.

(Image: Cumbria Tourism)

The likes of Coniston, Hawkshead and the Langdales can be reached via Ambleside and the 505.

It’s not just buses that are sustainable ways to travel.

The train network around the county connects passengers from Oxenholme to Carlisle or on the coastal routes from Arnside via Barrow and on to Carlisle – the latter hugging the coastline almost the entire journey.

Cumbria’s bus network also connects onto other modes of transport such as steam trains and boats, so whether using these as a way to get from A to B or a fun day out with the family, it’s never been easier to leave the car at home.

Attractions including Wordsworth Grasmere, Rheged, Sizergh Castle and Windermere Jetty Museum are all located on bus routes.

Meanwhile, popular peaks including Skiddaw or Helvellyn are also easy to reach via bus.

Active travellers may want to take a bike or hire one while out to continue a car free exploration into areas that may otherwise not be accessible by public transport.

For more information and ideas for days out and about without the car visit www.visitlakedistrict.com/carfree.