Attractions and Places To See around Crackenthorpe - Top 20

The region offers diverse natural beauty. A prominent feature is High Cup Nick, an impressive glaciated U-shaped valley within the North Pennines AONB. You can also explore the serene paths along the River Eden in the Eden Valley, or visit Murton Pike and Dufton Pike for scenic views. Tarn Sike and Smardale, managed by Cumbria Wildlife Trust, are also notable for their unique plant life and stunning scenery.

Yes, Crackenthorpe and its surroundings are rich in history. While Crackenthorpe Hall is a significant Grade II* listed building with a long history, it is now available for accommodation. Nearby, you can find the site of a Roman marching camp, the ruins of a chapel dedicated to St. Giles, and several other listed buildings. English Heritage sites like Shap Abbey, Countess Pillar, Clifton Hall, Brougham Castle, and Brough Castle are also within easy reach.

The area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking and running on numerous trails. For example, there are several hiking routes and running trails around Crackenthorpe, including paths along the River Eden and ascents of Murton Pike and Dufton Pike. The broader North Pennines AONB provides a beautiful backdrop for walking and exploring.

While Crackenthorpe itself is more focused on natural and historical sites, several family-friendly attractions are within a short drive. These include Foxy's Adventure Golf, Abbott Lodge children's farm, and Rheged Indoor Play. For outdoor fun, Dufton Pike is considered family-friendly for walks, and Murton Pike offers a shorter ascent with panoramic views.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to High Cup Nick, which offers stunning vistas of its glaciated valley and the surrounding North Pennines AONB. Murton Pike and Dufton Pike also provide excellent panoramic views from their summits, despite their moderate altitudes.

Popular hiking options include a circular route to High Cup Nick from the village of Dufton. You can also link Murton Pike with High Cup Nick for a longer hike. For easier options, explore the easy hikes around Crackenthorpe, many of which follow riverside paths or gentle loops.

The North Pennines AONB, which borders Crackenthorpe, is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for hiking and exploring the natural features, with wildflowers in bloom. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the landscape. While winter can be challenging with snow, it offers a unique, stark beauty for experienced hikers. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Many of the natural areas and trails around Crackenthorpe are suitable for dog walking, provided dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock. Dufton Pike is noted as dog-friendly. Always be mindful of local signage and regulations, particularly within the North Pennines AONB, to protect wildlife and livestock.

While Crackenthorpe is a small village, the nearby market town of Appleby-in-Westmorland offers a good selection of shops, cafes, and accommodation options. The village of Dufton also has local amenities. For a local stop, Post Box Pantry in Dufton is a popular cafe for snacks and refreshments.

High Cup Nick is recognized as an excellent example of a glaciated U-shaped valley in Northern England. Its dramatic grey-blue dolerite crags, situated high on the western flanks of the North Pennines AONB, create an utterly breathtaking view, making it a unique geological wonder and a must-see for visitors.

For easier walks, consider the riverside paths along the River Eden or some of the shorter, less strenuous loops detailed in the easy hikes around Crackenthorpe guide. Murton Pike offers a relatively quick ascent with great views, and Dufton Pike is also noted as family-friendly.

Beyond the main highlights, explore the tranquil beauty of Tarn Sike and Smardale, both managed by Cumbria Wildlife Trust, known for their unique flora and stunning scenery. The Howgill Fells, a short distance away, offer excellent walking experiences with fewer crowds, providing a sense of peaceful discovery.

Appleby-in-Westmorland is a charming market town in the Eden Valley. It features a historic Norman castle, a 1596 Moot Hall, and a selection of local shops and cafes. It serves as a great base for exploring the wider area and offers picturesque views of the Pennine range.

Yes, the area has significant ancient history. Near Crackenthorpe, you can find the site of a Roman marching camp, aligned with the Roman road between Kirkby Thore and Brough Castle. Further afield, prehistoric sites such as King Arthur's Round Table (a Neolithic earthwork henge) and Mayburgh Henge are also within reach, offering a glimpse into the region's distant past.