The best walks and hikes around Caldbeck

Yes, the area offers several gentle strolls perfect for families. A particularly popular choice is the walk from Caldbeck village to The Howk, a limestone gorge with waterfalls and the ruins of an old bobbin mill. The path follows the river and is a great way to experience the local scenery and history without a strenuous climb.

Absolutely. The most well-known spot for waterfalls is The Howk, a scenic limestone gorge just a short walk from the village. The route along Cald Beck leads you directly to these cascades, which are set beside the picturesque ruins of a historic bobbin mill.

Yes, Caldbeck is a great destination for hiking with dogs. The area features many trails across open fells and along riverbanks. However, you will be walking through farmland with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (typically spring). Always be prepared with water for your dog, as sources can be scarce on the higher fells.

For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the northern fells provide several rewarding ascents. A demanding but worthwhile option is the Summit cairn on Great Sca Fell – Brae Fell summit cairn loop from High Greenrigg House. This long route covers significant distance and elevation across open, sometimes boggy, moorland, rewarding you with a sense of solitude and vast panoramic views.

There is a main car park within Caldbeck village, which is a convenient starting point for many local walks, including the route to The Howk and sections of the Cumbria Way. For hikes starting further into the fells, such as those to High Pike and Carrock Fell, there are smaller lay-bys and informal parking areas near the trailheads, for example near Calebreck.

Reaching Caldbeck by public transport can be challenging as it's in a more remote part of the Lake District. Bus services are limited and may not run frequently, especially on weekends. It is best to check the latest timetables for services from nearby towns like Penrith or Carlisle before you travel. Most visitors find it more convenient to arrive by car.

Yes, after a day on the fells you can visit the Oddfellows Arms in Caldbeck village. It's a traditional pub and a popular spot for walkers to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink. Its central location makes it an easy stop after completing one of the many circular routes that start and end in the village.

Hiking in Caldbeck offers a quieter, more tranquil experience compared to the busier southern fells. The landscape here, known as 'Back o' Skiddaw', is characterized by vast, rolling grassy fells and open moorland rather than sharp, rocky peaks. This provides a sense of space and solitude, with trails that are often less crowded.

The trails around Caldbeck are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the peace and quiet of the northern fells, the stunning panoramic views that can stretch to Scotland on a clear day, and the mix of industrial heritage, such as old mine workings, that you discover along the paths.

There are over 80 curated hiking routes to explore around Caldbeck on komoot. These range from easy riverside walks to challenging full-day treks across the fells, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels and abilities.

The Caldbeck Fells are home to a variety of wildlife. As you hike across the open moorland, keep an eye out for wild ponies that graze on the fells. The area is also excellent for birdwatching, with species like skylarks, buzzards, and peregrine falcons often spotted. In the river valleys, you might see dippers and grey wagtails.