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Hesket

Top 10 Natural Monuments around Hesket

Best natural monuments around Hesket are found within a civil parish in Cumbria, England, characterized by its scenic natural landscape. The area is defined by the River Petteril and River Eden, which contribute to its natural beauty and offer opportunities for riverside walks. Hesket is also located near the Eden Valley and provides access to the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region serves as a base for exploring significant natural features and historical sites.

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Last updated: October 4, 2026

Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle

Highlight • Historical Site

3rd largest stone circle in England, dates back to the Bronze Age or 5000 years ago!

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Rickerby Park War Memorial

Highlight • Natural Monument

Rickerby Park is part of a gorgeous stretch of greenspaces along the River Eden, which meanders through the heart of Carlisle. It's a traditional Victorian parkland, which can easily be …

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Vista is one of ten stone artwork pieces commissioned to celebrate the millennium. They are located along the length of the Eden from its source near Mallerstang to its union …

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Lacy's Caves

Highlight • Structure

18th-century caves commissioned by Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Lacy were once used for entertaining guests. They're now a fantastic stop and interesting point of interest along the River Eden.

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River Eden at Force Mill Weir

Highlight • Natural Monument

The River Eden path passes opposite Force Mill and the old weir. The mill and mill buildings are now pretty holiday cottages.

Upstream, a short distance, is the railway viaduct.

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wohi
July 25, 2026, Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle

fantastic, magical

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The River Eden path passes opposite Force Mill and the old weir. The mill and mill buildings are now pretty holiday cottages. Upstream, a short distance, is the railway viaduct.

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Lew
October 26, 2022, Lacy's Caves

18th-century caves commissioned by Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Lacy were once used for entertaining guests. They're now a fantastic stop and interesting point of interest along the River Eden.

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The second largest stone circle in England, Long Meg and Her Daughters is simply beautiful. Thought to be Neolithic in age, and with a free car park nearby, it's worth a visit.

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Rickerby Park is a traditional Victorian parkland located on the banks of the River Eden, in the grounds of Rickerby House. Within the park is an impressive War memorial. In fields just beyond Rickerby Park is an octagonal Victorian folly tower erected by George Head Head, mayor, magistrate, and banker of Carlisle. He owned Rickerby House in the 19th Century, at a time when towers and turrets were in vogue. There are several more towers built into the Rickerby Gardens and Farm buildings. source: https://www.visitcumbria.com/car/rickerby-park/

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Rickerby Park is part of a gorgeous stretch of greenspaces along the River Eden, which meanders through the heart of Carlisle. It's a traditional Victorian parkland, which can easily be linked with an amble through Bitts Park and around the Sheepmount's many football fields and athletics track. The Hadrian's Wall Path long-distance trail also runs through the park.

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3rd largest stone circle in England, dates back to the Bronze Age or 5000 years ago!

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Found in between Little Salkeld and Glassonbuy village, Long Meg and her Daughters is the second biggest stone circle in the UK. With a diameter of around 106 meters, the circle is made up of 69 stones baring three mysterious symbols. Standing at almost 4 meters (12 feet), the tallest stone is known as Tall Meg. The stones are thought to date back to 1500 BC and the Bronze Age era. They were probably once the meeting place for a religious ritual. When writing about the stone circle, famous poet William Wordsworth said 'next to Stonehenge, it is beyond dispute the most notable relic that this or probably any other country contains.'

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most notable natural monuments to visit around Hesket?

Hesket is home to several interesting natural and historical sites. You can explore the ancient Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle, which dates back to the Bronze Age and is the second largest stone circle in England. Another unique spot is Lacy's Caves, an 18th-century cave system along the River Eden. The scenic River Eden at Force Mill Weir also offers beautiful riverside views.

Are there family-friendly natural attractions near Hesket?

Yes, several natural monuments around Hesket are suitable for families. Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle is a fascinating historical site for all ages. Rickerby Park War Memorial is located within a traditional Victorian parkland along the River Eden, perfect for a family stroll. The River Eden at Force Mill Weir also provides accessible scenic views.

What historical natural monuments can I find in the Hesket area?

The region boasts significant historical natural monuments. The most prominent is Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle, a Bronze Age site and the second largest stone circle in England. Additionally, Lacy's Caves are 18th-century man-made caves with a rich history, originally commissioned for entertaining guests.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Hesket?

Hesket is characterized by its beautiful river landscapes. The River Petteril and the River Eden flow through or border the parish, offering scenic beauty and opportunities for riverside walks. You can see features like the weir at River Eden at Force Mill Weir, and explore the unique Lacy's Caves carved into the riverbanks.

Are there opportunities for hiking near Hesket's natural monuments?

Yes, the area around Hesket offers various hiking opportunities. You can find routes that pass by natural monuments and through the scenic Cumbrian countryside. For detailed hiking trails, explore the Hiking around Hesket guide, which includes options like the 'Carved Faces Bay – Armathwaite Castle loop'.

What outdoor activities are available in the Hesket region besides visiting natural monuments?

Beyond exploring natural monuments, Hesket is a great base for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, enjoy scenic road cycling routes through the Eden Valley, or go for a run on the local running trails.

What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Hesket?

Visitors particularly appreciate the historical significance and natural beauty of the sites. The sheer scale and ancient mystery of Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle are often highlighted. The unique experience of exploring Lacy's Caves and the tranquil riverside setting of the River Eden are also highly valued.

Is there a natural monument near Hesket that is also a park?

Yes, Rickerby Park War Memorial is situated within Rickerby Park, a traditional Victorian parkland on the banks of the River Eden. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and open green spaces for recreation.

How accessible is Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle?

Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle is generally accessible, with a free car park located nearby, making it convenient for visitors to reach and explore this ancient site.

Can I find any unique art installations among the natural monuments?

Yes, you can discover Vista – Eden Benchmark Sculpture by Graeme Mitcheson. This is one of ten stone artworks commissioned to celebrate the millennium, located along the River Eden. It features carvings symbolic of someone preparing for a dip in the river and can be found on the forest path through Coombes Wood.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Hesket?

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the natural monuments and enjoying outdoor activities in Cumbria. However, the region's landscapes, including the rivers and historical sites, can be beautiful in all seasons, with autumn offering vibrant colors and winter providing a serene, often snowy, backdrop.

Are there any natural monuments near Hesket that are part of a larger national park?

While Hesket itself is not within a national park, its location provides excellent access to the renowned Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park, known for its spectacular fells and lakes, is a significant natural wonder easily reachable from Hesket, offering a vast array of natural monuments and landscapes to explore.

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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Hesket:

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