Top 10 Natural Monuments around Brough

Visitors frequently enjoy Nine Standards, known for its superb views and mysterious origins. Another highly-rated spot is Smardale Gill National Nature Reserve, which is popular for walking and its conservation efforts. The Waterfall in North Pennines National Landscape also draws attention for its scenic beauty.

Yes, Smardale Gill National Nature Reserve is considered family-friendly and offers an interesting area for walking. Additionally, the Dog Stone is a unique natural monument that children might enjoy for its distinctive shape.

The Brough region, particularly around Brough-under-Stainmore, is rich in geological interest. You can observe conspicuous crags formed by volcanic rocks on Roman Fell and around Swindale Beck. The area also features widespread Carboniferous strata and underlying Lower Palaeozoic rocks, notably exposed on the Pennine Escarpment, and the quartz-dolerite Whin Sill in Upper Teesdale.

For easier walks, Smardale Gill National Nature Reserve provides an accessible and interesting area for walking. In the East Riding of Yorkshire, Welton Water offers scenic and peaceful walks. However, be aware that some trails, like those near Nine Standards, can be marshy and challenging, even if described as 'easy'.

The area around Brough offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB trails, running routes, and road cycling routes. These routes often pass by or are close to natural monuments, providing opportunities to combine your visit with an active outdoor experience.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activity. Spring and summer offer milder weather, ideal for hiking and exploring the landscapes. However, some paths, especially near the Waterfall in North Pennines National Landscape, can remain boggy for extended periods, so appropriate footwear is always recommended, particularly after rain or in wetter seasons.

While primarily natural, Nine Standards has a mysterious origin, with some believing they were constructed by the Romans. In Northumberland, Brough Law is notable for its natural volcanic geology but also features an Iron Age hillfort, blending natural and historical interest.

For breathtaking panoramic views, Nine Standards offers superb vistas over Kirkby Stephen and beyond. In the Peak District, Mam Tor and Hollins Cross are known for their spectacular views over the Peak District, with Hollins Cross being a key point along the Great Ridge.

Mickle Fell Summit Cairn is a challenging destination, often considered the highest peak in Yorkshire. A significant portion of the area is within a military training range, so access is limited. You will need permits, and specific weekends are set aside annually for hikers. The middle section of the Southern Route is particularly difficult and boggy.

Yes, the region offers fascinating geological insights. At Broken Brough in Shetland, you can observe sandstone formations with 'cross-bedding' patterns, indicating ancient sand dunes from nearly 400 million years ago. Brough Law in Northumberland showcases pyroclastic rocks and other volcanic formations from the earliest phase of volcanic activity in the Cheviots.

Smardale Gill National Nature Reserve is actively involved in conservation efforts, making it an excellent place to experience nature while supporting environmental protection. It's an interesting area for walking and observing local flora and fauna.

In the East Riding of Yorkshire, North Cave Beck provides a serene experience with easy access to beautiful natural scenery. Welton Water also offers picturesque views and a peaceful backdrop for a refreshing walk.