The 5 Most Amazing Peaks around Cumrew

The Cumrew area, part of the North Pennines, offers several notable peaks. Among them, Talkin Fell Summit Cairns and Trig Point is popular for its views and interesting cairns. Higher up, Thack Moor Summit Trig Point provides expansive views of the western Pennines and Eden Valley, while Cold Fell Summit and Trig Point stands as the most northerly mountain in Cumbria, offering significant altitude and prominence.

The region around Cumrew is characterized by open heather moors, rolling fells, and dales carved by upland rivers. As part of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a UNESCO Global Geopark, you'll encounter diverse landscapes including limestone outcrops, grassland, and panoramic views across the Lower Eden Valley. On clear days, vistas from peaks like Talkin Fell can extend to the Lake District and even the hills of Galloway in Scotland.

Yes, there are options for various fitness levels. While some fells offer more strenuous climbs, the area also features easier walks. For example, the 2.7-mile loop walk around Simmerson Hill offers river views and panoramic fells, which can be suitable for families. Additionally, some highlights like Thack Moor Summit Trig Point and Watch Hill Currick are categorized as family-friendly.

The best time to hike the mountain peaks around Cumrew is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, you'll experience more favorable weather conditions, clearer views, and less challenging terrain compared to winter, when conditions can be harsh with snow and ice.

Beyond hiking, the Cumrew area offers excellent opportunities for cycling and running. You can explore various routes such as the 'Burgh Marsh – Scenic Coastal Section loop' for cycling or the 'Talkin Fell & Geltsdale loop' for running. For more detailed routes, you can check the Cycling around Cumrew guide or the Running Trails around Cumrew guide.

Many trails in the North Pennines are dog-friendly, and some highlights like Thack Moor Summit Trig Point and Watch Hill Currick are specifically noted as dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially when crossing farmland or in areas with livestock, and to check for any specific restrictions, particularly in nature reserves like RSPB Geltsdale.

The peaks around Cumrew offer extensive panoramic views. From Talkin Fell Summit, you can enjoy great views north and east. Higher peaks like Thack Moor Summit provide incredible vistas of the mountains in the western Pennines, stretching along the Eden Valley. On clear days, you might even see the Helvellyn range and Scafell Pike in the Lake District, and the hills of Galloway in Scotland.

The North Pennines, where Cumrew is located, is unique due to its status as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a UNESCO Global Geopark. This designation highlights its exceptional landscape of open heather moors, rolling fells, and dales. It offers a rich natural environment and diverse hiking experiences, from gentle reservoir loops to more strenuous fell walks, catering to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.

While popular spots like Talkin Fell can see visitors, the broader North Pennines region offers many trails where you can find solitude. Exploring lesser-known routes or visiting during off-peak times can lead to a more tranquil experience. Peaks like Cumrew Fell itself, while prominent, might offer a quieter walk compared to more frequently visited summits, allowing you to enjoy the rugged beauty in peace.

The Cumrew area is rural, but nearby villages like Talkin and Castle Carrock may offer amenities such as pubs or cafes. It's advisable to check specific village offerings in advance, especially for opening hours. For a wider selection, larger towns in the vicinity would provide more options for refreshments and accommodation after your hike.

Among the peaks around Cumrew, Cold Fell Summit and Trig Point stands out at 621 meters. Thack Moor Summit Trig Point is also significant at 610 meters. These higher fells offer more challenging terrain and often more expansive views.

Given the varied weather in the North Pennines, it's essential to dress in layers. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are crucial, even in summer, as conditions can change rapidly. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are recommended for the often rugged and sometimes wet terrain. Always carry extra warm clothing, a hat, and gloves, especially when ascending to higher elevations or during cooler months.