The best walks and hikes around Melmerby

There are almost 300 hiking routes to explore around Melmerby. The trails offer a great deal of variety, with nearly 100 easy walks, over 160 moderate routes, and more than 30 difficult hikes for those seeking a challenge in the North Pennines.

Yes, many routes are loops. A great example is the Penhill Summit – Penhill Crags and Beacon loop from Melmerby. This moderate walk takes you up to the summit plateau for expansive views before returning to the village.

Many trails in the Eden Valley are suitable for dogs, but it's important to be mindful of livestock. The area around Long Meg and Her Daughters stone circle is a popular dog-friendly walk. Always check for local signage regarding leads, especially during lambing season and on open moorland.

Certainly. For a shorter, easier outing that's great for families, consider the Penhill Summit – Penhill Crags and Beacon loop from West Witton. The walk is relatively short and manageable for most abilities. Exploring the woodland paths of Cliburn Moss Nature Reserve is another excellent option for a gentle family adventure.

For a spectacular waterfall, a visit to Aira Force is a must. It's a highly-regarded National Trust site with trails leading to stunning viewpoints of the falls. For a longer day out, you can tackle the Cauldron Falls – West Burton Village Green loop from West Scrafton, which incorporates the lovely Cauldron Falls into a challenging hike.

For experienced hikers, the North Pennines offer plenty of challenges. The ascent to Melmerby Fell is a rewarding climb with fantastic views. For a demanding route that explores the wider area, the Heights of Hazely and Carlton Motte loop offers a long walk with significant elevation gain through varied terrain.

Yes, the region is rich in history. A popular walk from Little Salkeld takes you to Lacy's Caves, a series of chambers carved into the sandstone cliffs along the River Eden. Many routes also pass near the prehistoric stone circle of Long Meg and Her Daughters, offering a glimpse into the area's ancient past.

For expansive views, hikes that ascend the fells are your best bet. The climb up Melmerby Fell provides stunning panoramas of the Eden Valley and across to the Lake District fells. The Great Roova Crags and East Scrafton Moor loop is another excellent choice for getting up high and enjoying the open moorland scenery.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the variety, from gentle riverside paths in the Eden Valley to the wild, open moorland of the North Pennines. The stunning views and the sense of tranquility are frequently mentioned.

Melmerby itself has The Shepherd's Inn, a classic village pub perfect for starting or finishing a walk. You can easily plan a local circular route that ends back in the village for a well-earned drink and meal.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find gentle bridleways and riverside paths in the Eden Valley, while routes heading into the North Pennines involve ascents on grassy or rocky paths across open fells and moorland. Some trails follow historic Roman roads like the Maiden Way.