Best attractions and places to see around Crosby Garrett include a mix of historic landmarks, significant natural features, and cultural sites within Westmorland and Furness, Cumbria. The area is characterized by its fells, such as Crosby Garrett Fell, and its historical connection to the Settle-Carlisle railway. Visitors can explore a landscape rich in both natural beauty and human history, from ancient churches to impressive viaducts. This region offers diverse points of interest for those seeking to explore the Cumbrian countryside.
…Last updated: May 6, 2026
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This is actually the location of the topographic cairn, which is a really good view point out over the surrounding Dales, and of the Nine Standards, which sit nearby to the north within a few hundred metres. A bit further to the south is the actual summit point of Nine Standards Rigg itself, which is marked by a trig point.
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Nearby to the true summit is a quaint trig pointed marker with some seating.
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This is a lovely broad summit, and one of the nicest trig pointed tops out there. To come here on a nice day is a lovely experience. The summit is set back quite a bit from the escarpment, so there is not much of a view from there, but there is a nice seat to park your butt on for a while.
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The Calf 676m P383 (2218ft) TP6361 - The Calf S5676 County of Yorkshire Definitive List Yorkshire Dales NP Definitive List County of Yorkshire Trig Pillar
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An awe-inspiring place. The walk in across the bottom of the dale is easy with constant views and the rumbling of the looming waterfall. Climbing the path alongside the cascade is recommended, although it becomes very steep on the rough stone steps. From here, you can continue to the top of The Calf, the highest point in the area.
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It's the highest peak in the Howgills but the top of the Calf is pretty unexciting - its a rounded summit with motorway paths. The best feature of the hill is hidden away to east - the huge Cautley Spout waterfall. Although some maps don't show a path all the way to the summit from the east, there's a decent path on the ground, and this is by far the most interesting way to climb the hill
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The area around Crosby Garrett is rich in natural beauty. You can explore Crosby Garrett Fell, which rises to Nettle Hill and offers excellent observation points. Other notable features include Crosby Garrett Beck, Scandal Beck, and the large limestone pavements known as Little Asby Scar and Great Asby Scar. The region is also close to the Smardale Gill National Nature Reserve and Waitby Greenriggs Reserve.
Crosby Garrett boasts several historical landmarks. The impressive Crosby Garrett Viaduct, part of the Settle-Carlisle railway, is a key attraction. St Andrew's Church, with its Anglo-Saxon origins and Norman structure, is another important site. You can also see the Old Rectory Barn, a Grade II Listed Building, and the traditional Crosby Garrett Pinfold.
Yes, several attractions can be enjoyed by families. The Smardale Gill Viaduct is a historical site that offers scenic views and is suitable for a family outing. Exploring the village's vernacular architecture and well-maintained gardens can also be a pleasant activity for all ages. Easy walks around the village and nearby nature reserves provide gentle outdoor options.
For breathtaking views, head to The Calf Summit (Howgill Fells), the highest point of the Howgill Fells, offering panoramic vistas that can include the Yorkshire Three Peaks and parts of the Lake District. Crosby Garrett Fell, particularly Nettle Hill, also provides excellent observation points, especially for viewing the viaduct and steam trains. The Nine Standards cairns also offer superb views over Kirkby Stephen and the surrounding area.
Crosby Garrett is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking, running, and mountain biking routes. For hiking, consider the 'Nettle Hill and Smardale Gill Viaduct loop from Crosby Garrett' or 'Smardale Gill Viaduct – Smardale Bridge loop from Waitby'. Mountain bikers can explore routes like 'St Andrew's Church, Dent – Rawthey Valley loop from Ravenstonedale'. For more options, visit the komoot guides for Hiking around Crosby Garrett, Running Trails around Crosby Garrett, and MTB Trails around Crosby Garrett.
Yes, the area has a notable prehistoric and Roman history. Crosby Garrett was the discovery site of the famous Crosby Garrett Helmet, a rare Roman cavalry helmet from the 2nd or 3rd century AD. While the helmet itself is now in private hands, its discovery underscores the rich historical significance of the region.
The best time to visit Crosby Garrett for outdoor activities generally depends on your preference. Spring and summer offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and vibrant landscapes, ideal for hiking and exploring. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. While winter can be picturesque, some routes may be more challenging due to weather conditions. Always check local forecasts before heading out.
For easier walks, consider exploring the village itself, enjoying its vernacular architecture and well-maintained gardens. The path along Crosby Garrett Beck offers a gentle stroll. Additionally, routes like the 'Smardale Gill Viaduct – Smardale Bridge loop from Waitby' are rated as easy and provide pleasant scenery without significant challenges.
Yes, a short distance away you can visit Cautley Spout Waterfall. It is an awe-inspiring place, reported to have one of the highest drops in England at 180m. The walk to its base is relatively easy, with a more challenging ascent alongside the cascade for experienced walkers.
The Settle-Carlisle Railway is a key point of interest, particularly for train enthusiasts. It passes through the area, carried by the impressive Crosby Garrett Viaduct. The railway line itself attracts visitors who come to witness steam train services and appreciate the engineering marvels of the Victorian era within a stunning natural landscape.
Yes, the natural areas around Crosby Garrett are excellent for wildlife spotting. The Smardale Gill National Nature Reserve is particularly known for its diverse flora and fauna. The fells and beck areas also provide habitats for various bird species and other local wildlife, offering opportunities for nature observation.
Beyond St Andrew's Church, Crosby Garrett also has a historic Methodist Chapel, built in 1882. The village hall, a former school, hosts regular community events and reflects the village's social history. The overall village architecture, with houses dating back to the seventeenth century, offers a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage.


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