The 8 Most Amazing Peaks around Brougham

While Brougham itself doesn't have prominent peaks, the nearby Lake District National Park and Howgill Fells offer several popular options. Arthur's Pike summit is a popular Wainwright fell in the Far Eastern Lake District, offering extensive views. Another highly regarded peak is Cross Fell Summit, the highest point in the Pennines, known for its far-reaching views across the Lake District and even to both coasts.

Yes, there are options suitable for families. Dufton Pike is considered family-friendly and offers an accessible ascent from the village of Dufton. Additionally, Gowbarrow Fell, located north of Ullswater, provides a moderate walking experience that can be combined with a visit to the scenic Aira Force waterfall, making it a great family outing.

The peaks in this region offer diverse natural features and stunning viewpoints. From Cross Fell Summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Lake District, the west coast, and the east coast. Arthur's Pike summit provides views of many other Wainwright fells and the North Pennines. Helvellyn, a prominent Lake District peak, is famous for its dramatic ridges, deep corries, and the beautiful Red Tarn, offering exceptional views across the national park.

The best time to hike the mountain peaks near Brougham is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. During these months, trails are typically clearer, and the views are at their best. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear, experience, and careful attention to weather conditions, especially on higher fells like Helvellyn where snow and ice can make routes challenging.

Absolutely. For experienced hikers, Helvellyn in the Lake District offers exhilarating routes like Striding Edge and Swirral Edge, which involve thrilling scrambles. The ascent of Hartsop Dodd, often part of a longer ridge walk including Stony Cove Pike, can also be challenging but rewards with excellent 360-degree views of the surrounding Lake District.

Many of the fells and trails in the Lake District and Howgill Fells are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock. Dufton Pike is noted as a dog-friendly peak. Always remember to check local signage for any restrictions, particularly during lambing season, and ensure your dog is capable of handling the terrain.

Beyond hiking, the area around Brougham offers various outdoor activities. You can explore gravel biking routes, with options like the 'View of Ullswater loop from Askham'. There are also several running trails, such as the 'Whinfell Forest loop from Culgaith'. For road cyclists, cycling routes like the 'Lowther Castle – Mardale Head at Haweswater loop' provide scenic rides.

For a sense of solitude and a remote atmosphere, consider visiting the Howgill Fells. Located between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, these 'big green whalebacks' are characterized by soft, grass-covered rolling hills. They are often overlooked, making them ideal for those seeking a quieter walking experience away from the crowds, with excellent views and wild fell ponies.

Yes, Dunmallard Hill Woodland, located at the far north-eastern tip of Ullswater, offers a wonderful wooded area for hiking from Pooley Bridge. While the summit views down Ullswater are somewhat obscured by trees, it provides a pleasant forest experience combined with glimpses of the surrounding landscape.

Gowbarrow Fell, for instance, has historical connections, having been part of a medieval hunting park and admired by William Wordsworth. The area around Ullswater, where many of these fells are located, has inspired poets and artists for centuries, reflecting a rich cultural history intertwined with its natural beauty.

The highest point in the Pennines, Cross Fell Summit, reaches 2,930 feet (893 m) and is accessible from Brougham. In the Lake District, Helvellyn is England's third-highest peak at 950 meters (3,117 ft), offering a significant challenge and rewarding views.

For beginners or those looking for a less strenuous walk, Gowbarrow Fell is a good option. It offers a more accessible and moderate walking experience with superb views of Ullswater and the surrounding fells, and can be combined with a visit to Aira Force waterfall.