The best walks and hikes around Glassonby

There are over 80 hiking routes in the Glassonby area, offering a variety of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging excursions. You'll find options suitable for different fitness levels and preferences.

Yes, Glassonby offers several easy, family-friendly walks. A great option is the Long Meg and Her Daughters loop from Glassonby, an easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) path leading to the ancient stone circle. Another easy route is Long Meg and Her Daughters loop from Hunsonby, which is 3.7 miles (5.9 km) and also explores rural landscapes.

Many of the trails around Glassonby are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the popular Lacy's Caves – River Eden at Force Mill Weir loop from Glassonby is a moderate 5.7-mile (9.1 km) circular route exploring riverside paths and historical cave formations. The Long Meg and Her Daughters loop from Glassonby is another excellent circular option.

While the Glassonby area is known for its gentle river valleys and agricultural land, there are a few more challenging routes. The region features 6 difficult trails, often involving more significant elevation changes or longer distances. For those seeking a greater challenge, consider exploring routes that venture towards the higher fells like Cross Fell, though specific advanced routes from Glassonby itself are less common than easy or moderate ones.

The Glassonby area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can visit the ancient Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle, or explore the dramatic Ashgill Force waterfall. For expansive views, some trails offer glimpses towards Cross Fell Summit, the highest point in the Pennines.

Many trails around Glassonby are dog-friendly, especially those that follow public footpaths through open countryside and along riverbanks. However, as much of the area is agricultural land, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, and to follow the Countryside Code. Always check specific route details for any restrictions.

Spring and summer (April to September) are generally the most popular times for hiking in Glassonby, offering milder weather, longer daylight hours, and vibrant landscapes. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the Eden Valley. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear for potentially colder, wetter conditions, and shorter days.

Yes, some routes in the wider Glassonby area incorporate villages with amenities. For instance, the The Crown Inn – Kirkoswald Village Shop loop from Kirkoswald passes through Kirkoswald, where you can find local establishments. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially in smaller villages.

The Glassonby area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 160 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful riverside paths, the historical significance of sites like Long Meg and Her Daughters, and the gentle, rolling landscapes of the Eden Valley.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many routes starting directly from Glassonby or nearby villages will have limited on-street parking or small village car parks. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the starting point on komoot for details on parking facilities or public transport options.

Beyond the well-known routes, the extensive network of public footpaths throughout the Eden Valley offers many opportunities for discovering quieter trails. Exploring paths that follow the River Eden away from popular spots can reveal secluded sections of the river and charming rural scenery. The area's character of rolling agricultural land means many paths offer a sense of peaceful discovery.

Hikes around Glassonby vary in length. You can find shorter, easy walks like the 3.8-mile (6.1 km) Long Meg and Her Daughters loop from Glassonby, or moderate routes such as the 5.7-mile (9.1 km) Lacy's Caves – River Eden at Force Mill Weir loop. There are also longer options available for those looking for a full day out, with distances extending up to 10 miles or more.