Escape to the Kirkby Stephen in the Eden Valley, Cumbria and immerse yourself in two days of heritage, waterways, and wild vistas – all with Augill Castle as your welcoming base.
Day 1 – Kirkby Stephen History, Gorge Walks & Rural Delights
Morning: Brough Castle & Ice Cream
Start with a short walk from our entrance gate, right to Brough Castle, a Norman ruin nestled within a Roman fort. Climb its ancient keep for sweeping views over the Vale of Eden. Afterwards, treat yourself to a scoop at the quirky Brough Castle Ice Cream Parlour, a local indulgence!
Midday: Stenkrith Park & Devil’s Grinding Mill
Stroll south along the River Eden to Stenkrith Park, cross its graceful fork-spanning Millennium Bridge, and pause at the roaring gorge of the Devil’s Grinding Mill – a natural amphitheatre carved from brockram.
Afternoon: Smardale Gill Nature Reserve
Head east to Smardale Gill, an atmospheric mix of disused limestone quarries, woodland trails, and a graceful packhorse bridge. Keep your eyes open for woodland birds and wildflowers.
OS Map Reference
OS Map: 1:50,000. sheet no. 97
Smardale car park entrance:
Grid reference: NY 742 083
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Newbiggin-on-Lune parking area:
Grid reference: NY 703 053
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Evening: Castle Comfort & Local Pub
Return home to Augill Castle for a cosy evening, in the gardens in summer or by the fire in Autumn and Winter. Ask about dinner on-site or if you’d like to wander, Kirkby Stephen town centre offers a handful of pubs and cafés – ideal for a relaxing pint before bed.
Day 2 – Kirkby Stephen Ruins, Caves & Countryside Ascent
Morning: Pendragon Castle & Mallerstang
Drive 10 minutes down the Mallerstang valley to the atmospheric ruin of Pendragon Castle, perched dramatically beside the River Eden below Wild Boar Fell. Legend says Uther Pendragon built it, so feel free to spin your own Arthurian tale.
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Midday: Explore Lacy’s Caves
Just north of Kirkby Stephen, amidst sandstone cliffs on the Eden, lie Lacy’s Caves – five man-made artisan chambers hidden behind foliage. It’s a moody setting for selfies and imagination!
Length: 7km, 4 1/2 miles, will take 2-3 hours
Afternoon: Nine Standards Rigg Hike
Tackle the iconic Nine Standards Rigg, an inspiring ridge hike marked by nine ancient cairns. The 8‑mile round trip rewards you with sweeping moorland views and the satisfaction of crossing part of Wainwright’s Coast-to-Coast.
Evening: Village Pub & Castle Return
After your exertions, drop into a countryside pub, for a proper traditional Cumbrian pub look out for The Cross Keys Temperance Inn for hearty fare—or head straight to the castle for a glorious dinner and plenty of rest.
Whether you’re planning big house getaways for the whole family Autumn gathering or just a weekend away, contact us on 017683 41937, email at [email protected] or head to our website.
