4.5
(161)
1,265
hikers
77
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Melmerby are situated within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering diverse landscapes. The region features the rugged backdrop of Melmerby Fell and the expansive views of the Eden Valley. Hikers can explore areas characterized by blanket bog, Carboniferous sandstone, and sections of the historic Maiden Way. This varied terrain provides accessible paths for outdoor exploration.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.8
(4)
22
hikers
6.07km
01:36
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
hikers
5.62km
01:29
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
15
hikers
5.95km
01:36
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
5.52km
01:25
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
11
hikers
7.28km
01:58
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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One of two pubs in the village. This is more of a drinkers pub rather than The Featherstone Arms which does great food.
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The Fetherston Hotel for a refresher. Roads of the Tour of Britain and of France.
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The River Eden path passes opposite Force Mill and the old weir. The mill and mill buildings are now pretty holiday cottages. Upstream, a short distance, is the railway viaduct.
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Kirkoswald means the "Church of St Oswald" who was the king of Northumbria. Now this pretty little market town is a nice stop in the Eden Valley. The Crown Inn is good with traditional pub food, drinks and snacks. It's normally open 10:30 to 11:00 but opens a bit later Tuesday and Wednesday and closed on Monday. The community village shop is a good place for a mid-ride re-supply. It's open 8:00 - 17:00 every day apart from Sunday when it shuts at 13:00.
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18th-century caves commissioned by Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Lacy were once used for entertaining guests. They're now a fantastic stop and interesting point of interest along the River Eden.
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The second largest stone circle in England, Long Meg and Her Daughters is simply beautiful. Thought to be Neolithic in age, and with a free car park nearby, it's worth a visit.
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Kirkoswald means the "Church of St Oswald" who was the king of Northumbria. No this pretty little market town is a nice stop in the Eden Valley. The Crown Inn is good with traditional pub food, drinks and snacks. It's normally open 10:30 to 11:00 but opens a bit later on Tuesday and Wednesday and closed on Monday. The community village shop is a good place for a mid ride re-supply. It's open 8:00 - 17:00 everyday apart from Sunday when it shuts at 13:00.
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Here you can stop off well: 3 pubs are available.
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There are over 25 easy hiking trails around Melmerby, offering diverse options for various preferences and fitness levels. In total, komoot lists 77 hiking routes in the area.
Yes, many easy trails around Melmerby are circular. For example, the Long Meg and Her Daughters loop from Glassonby is a popular circular route, as is the River Eden at Force Mill Weir – Lacy's Caves loop from Hunsonby.
Easy hikes around Melmerby offer a mix of landscapes. You'll find yourself at the foot of Melmerby Fell, part of the North Pennines AONB, with views across the picturesque Eden Valley. Trails often traverse open fields, sections of the historic Maiden Way, and areas characterized by blanket bog and Carboniferous sandstone.
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore the ancient stone circle of Long Meg and Her Daughters, which is featured on routes like the Long Meg and Her Daughters loop from Glassonby. Another notable site is Lacy's Caves, accessible via the River Eden at Force Mill Weir – Lacy's Caves loop from Hunsonby. The historic Maiden Way, an old Roman Road, also forms part of some walking routes.
Parking is generally available in or near the villages that serve as starting points for these trails. For routes like those around Long Meg and Her Daughters or Lacy's Caves, you'll typically find parking options in nearby villages such as Glassonby or Hunsonby. Melmerby village itself has a large green, and parking may be available there or in designated village car parks.
Public transport options to Melmerby and surrounding villages can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance, as services might be infrequent, especially to smaller hamlets or specific trailheads. Planning your journey by car often offers more flexibility for accessing various starting points.
The spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) are generally the best for easy hiking in Melmerby. During these periods, the weather is milder, days are longer, and the landscapes are vibrant. The wildflower meadow on Melmerby's village green is particularly beautiful in spring and summer. Winter can bring challenging conditions, including snow on higher ground like Melmerby Fell.
Even on easy trails, it's wise to be prepared for varied weather conditions in Cumbria. Wear comfortable, layered clothing that can be adjusted for temperature changes. Waterproof outerwear is recommended, along with sturdy walking shoes or boots, as paths can be muddy or uneven in places. Don't forget sun protection and a hat, even on cloudy days.
Yes, Melmerby village has The Shepherds Inn, which is a great starting or ending point for walks. You can also find other pubs in nearby villages, such as The Fox Inn in Ousby, which can be incorporated into a pub walk.
The easy trails in Melmerby are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 150 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful countryside, the historical interest of sites like Long Meg and Her Daughters, and the accessibility of the routes for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Yes, many of the easy trails around Melmerby are well-suited for families. Routes like the Long Meg and Her Daughters loop from Glassonby offer relatively flat terrain and manageable distances, making them enjoyable for children. The large village green in Melmerby, with its stream and wildflower meadow, also provides a pleasant space for families.
Most easy hiking trails around Melmerby are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through fields with livestock. Always follow the Countryside Code, keep dogs on a lead where necessary, and clean up after them. Some routes may pass through farmland, so be mindful of gates and fences.


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