The 13 Most Amazing Peaks around Alston Moor

Alston Moor, situated within the North Pennines, offers several notable peaks. Cross Fell Summit is the highest point in the Pennines, providing extensive views. Other significant peaks include Little Dun Fell, known for its raw and barren views, and the distinctive conical Dufton Pike, which offers rewarding views for a shorter climb.

The terrain around Alston Moor's peaks is characterized by expansive moorlands, rolling hills, and river valleys, predominantly above 1000 feet. You'll encounter unique geological features, including the distinctive conical shape of Dufton Pike and the wide, plateaued top of Cross Fell. The landscape also bears marks of its lead mining history, adding a cultural layer to the natural environment.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Cross Fell Summit is a demanding and rewarding climb, being the highest point in the Pennines. The Pennine Way also passes over Cross Fell, offering a long-distance hiking experience. The climb from Garrigill, which can lead to a summit, is also noted as challenging, especially at the start.

Peaks like Dufton Pike and Knock Fell Summit Cairn are considered family-friendly and dog-friendly. Dufton Pike offers a relatively short but rewarding ascent from the village of Dufton, while Knock Fell provides an intermediate option that can be a prelude to further exploration.

The best time to visit Alston Moor for hiking is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when weather conditions are more stable and daylight hours are longer. However, the region's beauty can be appreciated year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Always be prepared for changeable weather, especially at higher elevations.

From Cross Fell Summit, on a clear day, you can enjoy far-reaching 360-degree views extending to the Lake District, the west and east coasts, the southern uplands of Scotland, and the Cheviots. Little Dun Fell offers 'super nice, raw, and barren' views across to Cross Fell and Great Dun Fell, while Dufton Pike provides 'super nice' views towards Backstone Edge.

The Alston Moor area has a rich history, particularly with lead mining, and you can often spot old workings and stone farmhouses along many trails. Cross Fell itself has historical significance, once known as 'Fiend's Fell' before St. Augustine is said to have erected a cross on its summit. Many peaks feature cairns and trig points, such as the impressive stone cairns and dry stone cross shelter on Cross Fell Summit and the cairn on Little Dun Fell.

Beyond hiking, Alston Moor offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, cycling, and mountain biking. For running, explore trails like the Isaac's Tea Trail or the Greg's Hut – Cross Fell Summit loop. Cycling options include routes from Alston to Lambley Viaduct or the Brampton & North Pennines loop. Mountain biking enthusiasts can tackle trails such as the Greg's Hut – Great Dun Fell Track loop. For more details, refer to the Running Trails around Alston Moor, Cycling around Alston Moor, and MTB Trails around Alston Moor guides.

While specific parking details for each peak vary, many trails are accessible from villages like Dufton, which typically offer parking facilities. Public transport options to Alston Moor are limited, so planning your journey in advance is recommended. It's advisable to check local transport schedules or consider driving to trailheads.

Generally, no specific permits are required for walking or hiking on the public rights of way and open access land in the Alston Moor area. However, it's always good practice to respect private land, follow the Countryside Code, and be aware of any local regulations, especially concerning livestock or conservation areas.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the summits, the sense of accomplishment after a challenging climb, and the raw, natural beauty of the moorland landscape. The well-maintained paths, especially sections of the Pennine Way, are also appreciated. The unique character of each peak, from the highest point of Cross Fell to the distinctive Dufton Pike, contributes to a memorable outdoor experience.

Hiking Cross Fell Summit is a significant undertaking due to its elevation and the expansive terrain. The duration can vary greatly depending on your starting point, fitness level, and the specific route taken. For example, a loop from Alston Moor that includes Greg's Hut and Cross Fell Summit can be around 31.77 km (nearly 20 miles), suggesting a full day's hike for most, often requiring 8-10 hours or more.