The best walks and hikes around Hartley

Hartley and its surrounding area offer a wide selection of routes, with over 160 hiking trails to explore. These range from easy strolls to more challenging moderate paths across fells and valleys.

Yes, Hartley features numerous easy hiking routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed walk. There are 57 easy trails, such as the Tailbridge Hill and High Pike Hill loop from Tailbridge Neck, which is 4.0 miles (6.5 km) long and takes under two hours.

For those looking for longer excursions, Hartley offers several moderate routes that extend into the surrounding fells and dales. An example is the Dog Stone – Nine Standards loop from Kirkby Stephen, which covers over 9 miles (15 km) and features significant elevation gain.

Many of the trails around Hartley are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Popular circular options include the Nine Standards Rigg and Millstones Pillar loop from Tailbridge Neck and the Waitby Intake and Wharton Hall loop from Kirkby Stephen.

The best time to hike in Hartley is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and the fells are more accessible. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide beautiful seasonal colours. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and caution due to potentially harsh conditions on the exposed moorland.

Hartley has several trails suitable for families, particularly the easier routes that offer gentle terrain and shorter distances. The Dog Stone – Scenic Grassy Path loop from Kirkby Stephen is an easy 3-mile (4.9 km) walk that could be a good option for families.

Many trails in the Hartley area are dog-friendly, but it's important to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through livestock fields or nature reserves. Always check local signage for specific restrictions. The Dog Stone – Nine Standards loop from Kirkby Stephen is a popular route that welcomes dogs.

The Hartley area is rich in natural and historical landmarks. You can encounter the distinctive stone cairns of Nine Standards, enjoy expansive views from the Wild Boar Fell Summit Shelter, or visit the impressive East Gill Force waterfall. The region also borders the Yorkshire Dales National Park, offering diverse scenery.

Yes, the elevated terrain around Hartley provides numerous opportunities for scenic viewpoints. Trails often lead to high ground offering panoramic vistas across the fells and valleys. Notable viewpoints include the Wild Boar Fell Summit Shelter and the Scenic Lanes of Swaledale and Arkengarthdale.

The hiking trails in Hartley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 470 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the region's varied terrain, from rolling fells to historic valleys, and the expansive, open views that define many of the routes.

While Hartley itself is a small village, some nearby towns like Kirkby Stephen, which serves as a starting point for several routes, have limited public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance, as services can be infrequent, especially to more remote trailheads.

The wider region around Hartley, including nearby villages and towns, offers traditional pubs and cafes where hikers can refuel. The Tan Hill Inn, for example, is a well-known establishment in the area, offering refreshments in a historic setting.