The best hikes from bus stations around Shap

There are 12 dedicated hiking trails around Shap that conveniently start directly from bus stations, making it easy to explore the region without a car.

The bus station hikes around Shap cater to various fitness levels. You'll find 4 easy routes, 7 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging option, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. For an easy and relatively short option, consider the Chippy Chippy – The Goggleby Stone loop from Shap, which is about 5 km long and features the notable Goggleby Stone monolith. Another easy choice is The Goggleby Stone – Chippy Chippy loop from Shap.

The trails offer a diverse landscape. You'll encounter the gentle beauty of the Shap Fells, quiet valleys like Swindale, and unique geological features such as the distinctive pink Shap granite. Some routes may also offer distant views towards the vast Haweswater Reservoir, the highest lake in the Lake District.

Many of the routes starting from Shap bus stations are designed as circular walks, allowing you to experience varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the Chippy Chippy – Fairy Crag loop from Shap and the Chippy Chippy – Flat Approach to Shap loop from Shap.

You can incorporate historical sites into your hike. The evocative ruins of 12th-century Shap Abbey, set in a secluded valley, are a significant point of interest. Additionally, the The Cockpit Stone Circle is a notable historical site that can be reached on some routes.

The hiking trails around Shap are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the sense of solitude on the fells, the tranquil valley walks, and the opportunity to discover hidden gems like Shap Abbey.

Yes, the region offers several scenic viewpoints. While hiking, you might encounter spots with views towards the Shap Fells or the Lowther Valley. Notable viewpoints in the wider area include Loadpot Hill Trig Point and Grey Crag Summit, offering expansive vistas of the Cumbrian landscape.

Shap offers rewarding hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant colours, while summer allows for longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the quiet fells can be stunning, though appropriate gear and caution are essential due to potentially challenging conditions.

The diverse landscapes of Shap provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. The area around Haweswater Reservoir is an RSPB reserve, known for peregrines, dippers, and redstarts. Hikers in the Shap Fells have also reported sightings of large birds of prey and deer. Red squirrels and otters can also be found in the region.

For those seeking a longer, moderate challenge, the Swindale Valley – Fairy Crag loop from Shap covers approximately 14.5 km and takes you through the tranquil Swindale Valley, offering a more extended exploration of the area's natural beauty.