Attractions and Places To See around Shap - Top 20

Shap is rich in history, offering several significant sites. You can visit the impressive ruins of Shap Abbey, dating back to the 12th century, or the medieval Keld Chapel. The area is also known for its prehistoric monuments, including the large Bronze Age The Cockpit Stone Circle, which is between 3,500 and 5,000 years old, and the Shap Stone Avenue / Kemp Howe Stone Circle, a remnant of a much larger megalithic structure.

For breathtaking views, head to Loadpot Hill Trig Point, a 2,205-foot (672 m) Wainwright fell offering expansive vistas within the Lake District National Park. Another excellent viewpoint is Grey Crag Summit. You can also explore the dramatic scenery around Haweswater Reservoir, where the submerged village of Mardale Green can sometimes be seen when water levels are low. The area is characterized by quiet valleys and high fells, including Shap Fell.

While many of Shap's attractions are historical or natural, Lowther Castle & Gardens, a short distance from Shap, offers a fantastic family day out. It features dramatic castle ruins, extensive gardens, and a large adventure playground that children will enjoy.

Shap is an excellent base for outdoor activities, especially hiking. You can find numerous trails leading to fells like Loadpot Hill, Grey Crag Summit, and Selside Pike. For easier walks, explore the easy hikes around Shap, including loops to Chippy Chippy and The Goggleby Stone. The area also offers running trails and gravel biking routes.

Komoot users appreciate the diverse range of sites, from ancient stone circles to elevated viewpoints. They particularly enjoy the clear structure of routes that allow them to find their rhythm and switch off, as well as the stunning views from summits like Loadpot Hill Trig Point and Grey Crag Summit. The historical significance of sites like The Cockpit Stone Circle also receives high praise.

Yes, within Shap village, you can discover the distinctive Market Cross - Heritage Centre, a building from 1687 reflecting Shap's past as a market town. St Michael's Church, with Norman arcade features and a 12th-century font, also offers a glimpse into the village's long history. The Old Courthouse, built as a school in 1880, is another notable local landmark.

Many of the outdoor trails and fells around Shap are suitable for dog walking, allowing you to explore the stunning Lake District National Park with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock, and follow local guidelines for responsible dog ownership in rural areas. Specific dog-friendly routes can often be found within the easy hikes around Shap guide.

Shap village offers essential amenities for visitors, including pubs and cafes where you can refresh after exploring. There are also accommodation options available. The village serves as a convenient base for accessing the surrounding attractions and trails. For more detailed information on local services, you can check local tourism resources like visiteden.co.uk.

Yes, the Shap Local History Society, which owns the Old Courthouse, maintains an extensive archive. This is an excellent resource for anyone interested in delving deeper into the history of Shap and its surrounding area, including its past as a market town and its quarrying activities.

Yes, Mardale Head is an excellent starting point for exploring the Far Eastern Fells and offers views of Haweswater Reservoir. When water levels are particularly low, the remains of the submerged village of Mardale Green can become visible, offering a unique and poignant sight. The area around Haweswater is also known for its conservation efforts, providing habitats for various bird species and red squirrels.

The Shap Summit Memorial, located on the A6, is a tribute to the drivers and crews who historically navigated the challenging route over Shap Fell. It commemorates their efforts in connecting the north and south of the country via this elevated moorland pass.