The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Crosby Garrett

Our guide features 6 family-friendly hiking trails around Crosby Garrett. These routes are specifically chosen for their manageable distances and gentle paths, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all ages.

The trails selected are generally easy to moderate, with one easy option like the Smardale Viaduct – Smardale Hall Motte loop from Crosby Garrett, which is just over 6 km with minimal elevation. They often feature interesting landmarks like the Smardale Viaduct, keeping younger hikers engaged, and avoid overly strenuous climbs.

Yes, for a truly easy and circular option, consider the Smardale Viaduct – Smardale Hall Motte loop from Crosby Garrett. It's approximately 6 km long with very little elevation gain, making it suitable for families looking for a gentle stroll. While some paths might be uneven, it's generally accessible.

Crosby Garrett is nestled in Westmorland's limestone country, offering diverse scenery. You'll encounter expansive moorland, impressive limestone formations, and picturesque valleys. Many routes, such as the Nettle Hill and Smardale Gill Viaduct loop, provide views across the Eden Valley and feature the distinctive transition from limestone scars to moorland.

Many family-friendly routes feature the impressive Smardale Viaduct, a major attraction and a key feature of the disused railway line. You might also encounter historical sites like Smardale Hall Motte. For more historical exploration nearby, consider visiting Pendragon Castle ruins or Appleby Castle, which are a short drive away.

Generally, dogs are welcome on trails around Crosby Garrett, especially in areas like Smardale Gill, which is a National Nature Reserve. However, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserve areas, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally the most pleasant for family hiking in Crosby Garrett, offering milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out, as conditions on the fells can change quickly.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Crosby Garrett, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the impressive Smardale Viaduct, and the sense of solitude offered by the moorland and valleys. The well-maintained paths and clear signage also contribute to a positive experience.

Yes, parking is typically available in or near Crosby Garrett village, which serves as a common starting point for many routes. For specific routes like those around Smardale Gill, there are often designated parking areas. We recommend checking the route details on komoot for precise parking information for your chosen hike.

While the immediate family-friendly trails focus on the limestone country and viaducts, the wider region offers impressive natural features. A notable waterfall, Cautley Spout Waterfall, is accessible a bit further afield. You can also find unique limestone pavements like Wicker Street Limestone Pavement in the vicinity.

For families seeking a greater challenge, the Nettle Hill and Great Asby Scar loop from Crosby Garrett offers a more demanding experience. This route is approximately 23.5 km with significant elevation gain, suitable for older children or families with good fitness levels looking for a full day out in the Westmorland fells.