The best walks and hikes around Brough Sowerby

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular walks. You can find a variety of loops for different abilities. For a straightforward and scenic option, the View of Brough Castle – Swindale Beck loop from Brough is an easy 6.7 km route that offers great views of the historic castle ruins.

The open countryside around Brough Sowerby is great for walking with dogs. You'll find many public footpaths through fields and along rivers. However, this is sheep country, so always be prepared to keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (spring). Also, be mindful of stiles which may not be dog-friendly on all routes.

For a gentle walk that's suitable for families, consider the Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen – Carved Stones Along the Path loop from Kirkby Stephen. It's a relatively short and flat walk that follows the river and features interesting carved stones along the way, which can be fun for children to spot.

For many walks, you can find parking in the nearby towns of Brough or Kirkby Stephen. For exploring Smardale Gill Nature Reserve, there is a dedicated car park, though visitors note the access lane is very narrow. It's always best to arrive early, especially on weekends, and park considerately without blocking gates or local access.

The market town of Kirkby Stephen is the main public transport hub for the area and is served by the Settle-Carlisle Railway line. Many excellent walks start directly from the town, allowing you to access the fells and the Yorkshire Dales National Park without a car. Local bus services also connect the surrounding villages, but schedules can be infrequent, so planning ahead is essential.

While many of the rural paths are quite remote, routes that start or finish in Kirkby Stephen offer the best opportunities for refreshments. The town has a good selection of traditional pubs, cafes, and bakeries where you can relax after your hike. It's a good idea to pack your own supplies for longer treks into the fells.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find gentle, rolling hills and flat riverside paths in the Eden Valley itself, which are generally easy-going. As you venture towards the North Pennines or the Yorkshire Dales, the trails become more challenging with steeper ascents, open moorland, and potentially boggy sections, especially after rain.

Yes, the region is crossed by several famous long-distance paths. Both Wainwright's Coast to Coast path and Lady Anne's Way pass through the nearby town of Kirkby Stephen. You can easily walk sections of these iconic trails as part of a day hike to experience a taste of a classic British long-distance walk.

The area is rich in history. Besides the prominent ruins of Brough Castle, you can incorporate other sites into your hikes. The Waitby Intake and Wharton Hall loop passes the historic Wharton Hall. Further afield, you can find the mysterious Nine Standards Rigg stone cairns and the romantic ruins of Pendragon Castle in the Mallerstang valley.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the peace and quiet of the Eden Valley, the stunning views across the fells, and the mix of gentle riverside strolls and more challenging moorland hikes. The combination of beautiful scenery and historical landmarks is a frequent highlight.

For those seeking a challenge, the Nine Standards – Hartley settlement loop from Kaber is a difficult 18 km trek. It involves a significant ascent onto open, exposed moorland to reach the famous cairns. This route requires good navigation skills and fitness, and you should be prepared for changeable weather conditions.

Yes, there are several lovely walks along the River Eden. The River Eden – Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen loop from Kirkby Stephen is a moderate route that follows the river, offering a peaceful and scenic experience. These riverside paths are often flatter and provide great opportunities for spotting wildlife.