Walking the
Westmorland Dales
The Westmorland Dales form the north-west corner of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. A beautiful, distinctive and relatively little-known part of east Cumbria, rich in geological heritage. This exposed, largely treeless landscape offers expansive panoramas across surrounding uplands. Tranquil and remote, with few intrusive elements, it remains a hidden corner of Cumbria, offering wonderful opportunities for walking exploration and discovery.
WALKS FROM THE DOOR
Cautley Spout
6 hrs ~ 11.3 miles
An undulating hike that will take you most of the day. Stop at The Cross Keys Temperance Inn for lunch (but do check their hours) or take a picnic. This superb waterfall can also be reached more easily by parking at the lay-by next to the Inn.
Local Area
Cautley Spout (short)
1hr 30 mins ~ 2.5 miles
Couple this walk with a visit to The Cross Keys Temperance Inn, or visit early morning/evening and park in the layby. This easy stroll invites you to make a gentle ascent up the valley where you'll be rewarded with a fantastic view - we think its all the better when the clouds have rolled in - it adds to the drama!
Lyvennet Valley
3 hr 30 mins ~ 6.5 miles
A beautiful valley walk for those who love a little history alongside their ramblings. You will pass Robin Hood's Grave and travel an old roman road whilst taking in the sights and sounds of this peaceful place. This walk has an accompanying leaflet found here produced by The Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Orton Village Circular
2hrs 15 mins ~ 4.6 miles
Why not couple this walk to Kennedy's Chocolate factory! Orton is a picture perfect village surrounded by fabulous limestone geology, a real treat for nature lovers and geographers. Parking is outside the chocolate factory where you will also find public loos and a bus shelter with community library. There is a Yorkshire Dales Leaflet for this walk found here.
Nine Standards Rigg
6 hrs ~ 10 miles
This challenging walk will take you most of the day but reward you with spectacular views. Park in Kirkby Stephen and you will have your choice of well deserved refreshments on your return. Parking is fee and public loos are near the church - which is worth stopping by itself. Treat yourself to a picnic from our bakery on the high street.
MAPS AND GUIDES
Each of our cottages includes Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and local guides, with a range of walks to help you explore the landscape at a your own pace - some of our favourites are shared below.
The Westmorland Dales are open, quiet and wonderfully easy to lose yourself in, so we recommend carrying a map, especially when heading into open access countryside away from villages. If you don’t already use a map app, OS Maps often offers a free trial and can be a helpful companion during your stay. Where possible, we’ve included OS links so you can preview routes and download them before you set out.
If you’re new to walking, we hope this is the start of something you’ll really enjoy. Taking a little time to prepare means you can relax and fully connect with the landscape. Conditions here can change quickly, even in lower-level areas, so it’s worth being properly equipped. You can find clear, practical guidance from Mountain Rescue England and Wales here.
