The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Orton

There are 19 family-friendly hiking trails around Orton, with 7 of them specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for all ages and abilities.

Yes, Orton offers several easy circular routes perfect for families. A great option is the Orton Scar Lime Kiln – Stone Bridge in Orton loop from Orton, which is an easy 6.3 km trail. The wider Orton area also features a general Orton Circular Walk, known for its gentle terrain.

The Orton area is renowned for its distinctive limestone scenery, featuring weathered crags and open fells. You'll also encounter beautiful pastoral landscapes with traditional drystone walls, species-rich hay meadows, and tranquil rivers. Keep an eye out for unique geological formations and the serene Sunbiggin Tarn.

Many trails around Orton are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through fields with livestock. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

You can discover several points of interest. For example, the Knott Trig Point – Gamelands Stone Circle loop from Raisbeck passes by the ancient Gamelands stone circle. The region also features historical elements like the Orton Scar Lime Kiln and the picturesque village of Orton itself with its distinctive All Saints Church. For natural beauty, consider visiting Sunbiggin Tarn.

Spring, summer, and early autumn are generally the most pleasant times for family hiking in Orton. The weather is milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. However, the low elevation gains mean many trails are accessible year-round, though winter conditions may require appropriate gear.

Absolutely. Trails like the Beacon Hill Jubilee Monument – View of Orton loop (mentioned in regional research) provide panoramic views of Orton and the surrounding fells, including glimpses of the Howgills and the North Pennines. The open fells often offer expansive vistas.

The komoot community rates the trails around Orton highly, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Hikers often praise the tranquil Cumbrian countryside, the unique limestone features, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family outings.

Yes, the area features several beautiful water bodies. The Sunbiggin Tarn – High Pike Summit Cairns loop from Sunbiggin Tarn takes you past the important wildlife habitat of Sunbiggin Tarn. While not directly on these family-friendly routes, the wider region is home to impressive features like Cautley Spout Waterfall.

Easy family hikes around Orton typically range from 1.5 to 2 hours. For example, the Orton Scar Lime Kiln – Stone Bridge in Orton loop from Orton can be completed in approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes, making it a manageable outing for families.

Parking is generally available in and around Orton village, as well as at various starting points for trails. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient parking options, especially during peak seasons.