The best walks and hikes around Great Salkeld

There are over 140 hiking trails in the Great Salkeld area, offering a wide range of options from easy strolls to more challenging routes through the Eden Valley.

Yes, Great Salkeld offers a good selection of easy trails. Approximately half of the routes, around 70, are rated as easy. An example is the River Eden at Force Mill Weir – Lacy's Caves loop from Hunsonby, which is 5.6 miles (9.1 km) long and takes about 1 hour 35 minutes.

Hiking routes in Great Salkeld vary significantly in length. You can find shorter walks, such as the River Eden at Force Mill Weir – Lacy's Caves loop from Hunsonby at 5.6 miles (9.1 km), up to longer, more challenging routes like the Kirkoswald, Long Meg stone circle & the River Eden loop from Lazonby, which spans 12.4 miles (20.0 km).

Many of the easier trails are suitable for families. Routes that explore historical sites like the Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle or follow the gentle banks of the River Eden are often popular choices for families.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most public footpaths and bridleways in the Great Salkeld area. However, it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock, and to clean up after them. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

The area is rich in natural and historical landmarks. You can explore ancient sites like the Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle, discover the unique Lacy's Caves, or enjoy the scenic beauty of the River Eden at Force Mill Weir. Many trails offer views of the rolling Eden Valley countryside.

Yes, many of the hiking routes around Great Salkeld are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Long Meg and Her Daughters loop from Hunsonby is a popular circular option.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Great Salkeld, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 180 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscape, the historical sites like the stone circles, and the tranquil riverside paths along the River Eden.

Parking options vary depending on the specific trailhead. Many villages like Glassonby or Hunsonby, which serve as starting points for popular routes, offer roadside parking or small village car parks. It's advisable to check the route details on komoot for specific parking recommendations near your chosen trail.

While some villages in the Eden Valley are served by local bus routes, public transport access directly to all trailheads can be limited. Planning your route in advance and checking local bus schedules is recommended if you intend to rely on public transport for your hike.

Hiking in Great Salkeld is enjoyable throughout the year. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, summer offers longer daylight hours, and autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Winter walks can be crisp and scenic, though some paths might be muddy or icy, so appropriate footwear is essential.

Yes, several villages in the vicinity of Great Salkeld, such as Kirkoswald or Lazonby, have traditional pubs and cafes where you can find refreshments and meals. These can be excellent starting or finishing points for your hike.