Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
United Kingdom
England
North West England
Cumbria
South Lakeland

Preston Patrick

Attractions and Places To See around Preston Patrick - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Preston Patrick, a village in Westmorland and Furness, Cumbria, offers a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural points of interest. The area is characterized by its distinctive drumlin landscape, providing a tranquil setting. Visitors can explore a variety of natural features and historical landmarks.

Best attractions and places to see around Preston Patrick

  • The most popular attractions is Fairy Steps, a natural monument shrouded in legends. This challenging gorge features steps where, according to folklore, a wish is granted if ascended or descended without touching the sides.
  • Another must-see spot is Arnside Knott, a summit within the Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape. This natural monument offers extensive views of the Lakeland Fells and the Yorkshire Dales, and is known for its diverse wildlife.
  • Visitors also love Sedbergh Town Centre, a settlement known as England's official book town. This historical site features an "olde worlde" feel with cobbled lanes and independent shops, making it a unique cultural destination.
  • Preston Patrick is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and charming settlements. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to scenic viewpoints and cultural towns.
  • The attractions around Preston Patrick are appreciated by the komoot community, with 140 upvotes and 76 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: June 20, 2026

Arnside Knott

Highlight • Summit

Arnisde Knott is one of the crowning jewels of the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Natural Beauty. Interestingly, at 522 feet (159 m) it is the lowest of all the 2,011 Marilyn hills, which are defined as UK peaks with a prominence of 492 feet (150 m) or more.

It's a great place to spot wildlife. Its mixed woodland and limestone grassland make it a vibrant place, with beautiful butterflies and wildflowers come spring and summer. The views are extensive too, with the Lakeland Fells rising to the north west and the Yorkshire Dales to the east.

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

The Mushroom on Scout Scar

Highlight • Summit

The Mushroom marks the summit Wainwright chose for Scout Scar in his guidebook to the Outlying Fells of Lakeland. In fact, the true summit of Scout Scar is a short walk to the south, as indicated by a trig pillar.

It's undoubted that Wainwright chose this spot, closer to the edge of the scarp, because it provides a sumptuous view of the tumultuous Lakeland skyline to the north west.

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Sedbergh Town Centre

Highlight • Settlement

Sedburgh is a delightful little town with an olde worlde feel. It is England's official book town, so if you're in the market for timeless literature or modern classics, you'll find a shop to suit your tastes. The Main Street and cobbled lanes are well worth exploring. Independent gear shop The Sleepy Elephant (named in honour of Wainwright's description of the Howgills) is a particular highlight.

Tip by

Save

Fairy Steps

Highlight • Natural Monument

The Fairy Steps are shrouded in numerous legends, with one prevalent tale suggesting that if you manage to ascend or descend the steps without making contact with the sides, the fairies will bestow upon you a wish. During the late 19th century, hordes of tourists flocked to this enchanting location, captivated by the romantic notion of having their desires fulfilled by the magical beings.

Tip by

Save

Devil's Bridge, Kirkby Lonsdale

Highlight • Historical Site

Nice views. Apparently, there is no record of it ever been built - so it was assumed the Devil built it 🙃. We used to jump off it in younger days, there are now 'bylaw' signs which prohibit it. There is also a burger van if you fancy something to eat or a brew. Massively popular with motorbikers on weekends and in good weather. Free car park opposite from which to start your ride.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Preston Patrick.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Preston Patrick

Gravel biking around Preston Patrick

Road Cycling Routes around Preston Patrick

Hiking around Preston Patrick

MTB Trails around Preston Patrick

Running Trails around Preston Patrick

Cycling around Preston Patrick

Tips from the Community

Spawnee
May 25, 2026, Sedbergh Town Centre

Sedbergh is a great starting point to explore the Howgills. Nice size pay and display car park with public toilets. There are also plenty of things to explore in the small town before or after you have been in the fells. Lots of great independent shops and cafes.

0

0

Leigh 🐾
September 22, 2025, Fairy Steps

Breathe in and take it steady to see a 🧚

0

0

A super nice spot to stop with great views out over the river.

0

0

Good fun but a bit of a squeeze. You can walk around instead.

0

0

:)
May 21, 2025, Fairy Steps

Slippy in the downward direction (south west)

0

0

:)
May 21, 2025, Fairy Steps

good fun! just beware, going down, it can be a bit slippy. Down is in the south west direction.

0

0

Very busy at weekend/ bank hols with. Motor bikes parking up for a natter

0

0

Richard
September 13, 2024, Fairy Steps

How many tries are you allowed?

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Preston Patrick?

The area around Preston Patrick is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Arnside Knott, a prominent natural feature within the Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape, offering extensive views of the Lakeland Fells and Yorkshire Dales. It's known for its diverse wildlife, including butterflies and wildflowers. The region also features a distinctive drumlin landscape, providing unique geological formations and scenic views.

Are there historical sites to visit near Preston Patrick?

Yes, Preston Patrick and its surroundings offer several historical sites. You can explore the remains of the medieval tower house at Preston Patrick Hall, visit the Grade II listed St Patrick's Church, or see the Friends' Meeting House. Further afield, Devil's Bridge in Kirkby Lonsdale is a picturesque historical site, and Warton Old Rectory, a rare 14th-century stone house, is also nearby.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Preston Patrick?

There are many outdoor activities to enjoy. For hiking, you can find routes like the 'Farleton Fell Summit loop from Lupton' or the 'Lancaster and Kendal Canal loop from Preston Richard'. Cyclists can explore routes such as the 'Yorkshire Dales National Park – Devil's Bridge loop' for road cycling or the 'Arnside Viaduct – Arnside Pier loop' for touring. You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking guide and cycling guide for Preston Patrick.

Are there family-friendly attractions in the Preston Patrick area?

Absolutely. Many attractions are suitable for families. Arnside Knott and The Mushroom on Scout Scar are both marked as family-friendly, offering enjoyable walks and views. Sedbergh Town Centre, with its unique bookshops and 'olde worlde' charm, can also be a delightful family outing. Additionally, Devil's Bridge in Kirkby Lonsdale is a popular spot with a free car park and a burger van, often enjoyed by families.

What is unique about Sedbergh Town Centre?

Sedbergh Town Centre is known as England's official book town, offering an 'olde worlde' feel with cobbled lanes and independent shops. It's a unique cultural destination for those interested in literature and exploring charming streets. Visitors often highlight its fine collection of new, second-hand, and collectors' bookshops.

What is the legend behind the Fairy Steps?

The Fairy Steps are steeped in local folklore. A prevalent tale suggests that if you can ascend or descend the challenging gorge steps without touching the sides, the fairies will grant you a wish. While the sides are quite close together, making it a fun challenge, the romantic notion has drawn visitors for generations.

Where can I find the best views near Preston Patrick?

For extensive views, head to Arnside Knott, which offers panoramic vistas of the Lakeland Fells and the Yorkshire Dales. Another excellent viewpoint is The Mushroom on Scout Scar, chosen by Wainwright for its sumptuous view of the tumultuous Lakeland skyline to the north-west.

Are there any dog-friendly walks or attractions?

Yes, several areas are great for walks with dogs. The Mushroom on Scout Scar is noted as dog-friendly, offering beautiful routes. The various hiking trails around Preston Patrick, such as those on Farleton Fell or along the Lancaster and Kendal Canal, are also generally suitable for dogs, though it's always good to check local signage for specific restrictions.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Preston Patrick?

Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The extensive views from spots like Arnside Knott and the unique experience of Fairy Steps are highly rated. The 'olde worlde' feel of Sedbergh Town Centre and the picturesque setting of Devil's Bridge are also popular, with many sharing photos and positive feedback on the komoot community.

Are there any notable historical buildings or churches in Preston Patrick itself?

Within Preston Patrick, you can find Preston Patrick Hall, a Grade II* listed building with remains of a medieval tower house. St Patrick's Church, built in 1852 on an earlier site, is an active Anglican church and a Grade II listed building, incorporating a 15th-century window. The Friends' Meeting House, rebuilt in 1869, also holds historical significance in the village.

What is the Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape?

The Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape (formerly AONB) is a protected area of outstanding natural beauty that encompasses Arnside Knott. It's characterized by its mixed woodland, limestone grassland, and rich wildlife, making it an excellent spot for nature observation and scenic walks. The broader landscape offers numerous opportunities for exploration and enjoying the natural environment.

Most popular routes around Preston Patrick

Gravel biking around Preston Patrick

Most popular attractions around Preston Patrick

Natural Monuments

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

HawksheadConistonSkelwithClaifeLakesSatterthwaiteWindermereKentmereColtonDunnerdale-With-SeathwaiteHugillCrookTorverCartmel FellNether StaveleyCrosthwaite And LythOver StaveleyBroughton WestBlawith And SubberthwaiteLongsleddaleKirkby IrelethStaveley-In-CartmelUnderbarrow And BradleyfieldStrickland KetelDentHelsingtonStrickland RogerLower AllithwaiteWitherslack, Meathop And UlphaSelside And Fawcett ForestCastertonBarbonBroughton EastGrange-Over-SandsGarsdaleHaverthwaiteKendalLowickUpper AllithwaiteSkelsmergh And ScalthwaiteriggMiddletonArnsideBeethamNatlandNew HuttonHevershamLevensPreston RichardHincasterDockerStaintonSedberghMilnthorpeEgton With NewlandKillingtonFirbankWhinfellGrayriggLower HolkerSedgwickManserghLambriggOld Hutton And HolmescalesLuptonWindermereHolmeKirkby LonsdaleBurton-In-KendalHutton RoofUlverstonOsmotherleyMansriggsAngertonUrswickPenningtonAldinghamConiston WaterGrizedale ForestGrasmere

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Lupton

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy