direction of travel
The general consensus seems to be for a south to north trip but for no clearcut reason. The prevailing wind comes from the west so it will be blowing across the route whichever direction you choose. Likewise the gradients are no easier in either direction and both Carlisle and Ulverston have good links for public transport. My choice would be for the southern start, not only because I live only 18 miles from Carlisle but more importantly it just feels the right way to walk the route!

fit to walk?
A fellwalk once once a fortnight is not enough to see you through 5 days of walking and you will need to build up towards what is a serious undertaking. As a general rule of thumb once you can manage a minimum of two consecutive, long days of fellwalking then you are pretty much ready to tackle the route.
If you haven't walked any great distance before then you will obviously need to do some serious training before you start. The golden rule is start off gently and build up and if you are in any doubt about your fitness then check with your doctor.

your feet are your best friends!
Wear good quality, lightweight and preferably waterproof boots and make sure they are worn in before the big walk as well buying some decent walking socks.

Stay dry
Make sure your waterproof jacket and over-trousers are in good condition and will actually keep the rain out.

rucksack
Remember you will have to carry all your clothes and belongings on your back so plan carefully and try not to take the kitchen sink. Practise packing your rucksack and get used to carrying it by walking with it before the trip. Take a couple of bin-liners to keep your clothes dry.

where to stay
If you are staying in B&B's, Camping barns, YH's etc then always try to book your accommodation ahead of time especially in the very busy summer months. Be aware that in Langdale area area especially there is a shortage of one night only stays with most inns etc asking for a minimum 2 night stay. Details of accommodation providers along the route can be found on this website by clicking here

know your Way!
Know where you are going - spend those long winter evenings poring over a map and guidebook (and even this website) planning your perfect trip on the Cumbria Way.

what about the dog?
Dogs are excellent companions whilst out fellwalking but you do need to be aware that there aren't many sections of the route where 'Patch' will be allowed to run free. Most B&Bs do not accept dogs and your back may not take too kindly to carrying the dogs food either. Whilst I was walking the route from Langdale to Keswick with my dog I had a scary 5 minutes whilst almost surrounded by very inquisitive cattle near Rosthwaite - as well trained as our dog is he could easily have made the situation worse.

be safe
If you are walking alone then let someone know your route and estimated time of arrival and just as important don't forget to let them know that you have arrived safe and sound!

you wear it well!
Plan your clothing carefully. Wear what you know is comfortable and what you know works for you. Make sure you have packed enough - it gets cold on the hills pretty quick!

weather - will it rain?
As we all know, the lake District can get wet, it can also be very cold and windy but it also has a surprisingly large number of glorious fell-walking days. Alas I can't guarantee when any of these are going to happen and all I can do is say 'be prepared for anything'! More seriously, May and June are normally good walking months as are September and October.