The best walks and hikes around Asby

The defining feature of the Asby area is the extensive limestone pavement, particularly on Great Asby Scar. You can expect to walk across a unique landscape of exposed limestone blocks, known as 'clints', and the deep fissures between them, called 'grykes'. This requires sturdy footwear and careful footing. Other trails feature rolling hills, open commons, and pastoral valleys.

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. For a moderate day out, the Gaythorne Hall and Bridge End Farm loop from Great Asby offers a pleasant 8.7-mile (14 km) circuit through the countryside.

Dogs are generally welcome, but it's essential to keep them under close control, especially on Great Asby Scar and Asby Winderwath Common. These areas have sensitive wildlife, including ground-nesting birds, and you will likely encounter livestock. The limestone pavement can also be tough on paws, so be mindful of your dog's comfort.

While many routes are moderate, there are easier options available. Look for shorter walks on public footpaths through the valleys and around the villages rather than the more challenging scar landscapes. These gentler paths avoid the significant elevation gain and difficult terrain of the higher fells, making them more suitable for a family outing.

Parking is available in small, designated areas. For example, the Beacon Hill and Asby Winderwath Common loop starts from the Thunderstone car park. For other routes, on-street parking in villages like Great Asby or Orton may be possible, but please park considerately and do not block access for residents or farm vehicles.

The region is rich in history. On some routes, you can see the Castle Folds Settlement, the remains of a Romano-British stone hut circle. Another significant feature is the Smardale Gill Viaduct, an impressive piece of 19th-century railway engineering that you can see on trails starting from Crosby Garrett.

There are over 200 hiking routes to explore in the Asby area. These range from short, easy walks to challenging all-day treks, with the majority being of moderate difficulty. This variety ensures there's a trail for almost every fitness level and interest.

The komoot community rates the hiking in Asby very highly. Reviewers often praise the sense of solitude and the unique experience of walking on the limestone pavements of Great Asby Scar. The expansive, 360-degree views from the summits are also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, for those seeking a more demanding challenge, there are difficult, long-distance options. A good example is the Nettle Hill and Great Asby Scar loop, which covers nearly 15 miles (24 km) and involves significant ascent over varied and rugged terrain.

Orton and Asby are neighboring areas offering similar landscapes, and many trails connect them. Hikes from Orton, such as the Orton Scar Lime Kiln – Stone Bridge in Orton loop, also feature limestone scars and pastoral scenery. Asby is particularly known for the vast and dramatic limestone pavement of Great Asby Scar, which is a premier example of this type of landform.

After your walk, you can find traditional pubs and cafes in the nearby villages of Great Asby and Orton. These offer a welcoming place to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink, but it's always a good idea to check their opening times in advance, especially outside of the main tourist season.