The Top 20 Attractions around Ormside
Best attractions and places to see around Ormside, a village nestled in the scenic Eden Valley of Cumbria, offer a blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. The area has a rich heritage, with roots tracing back to Viking times and medieval structures. Ormside is characterized by picturesque riverside scenery and diverse landscapes.
Last updated: February 18, 2026
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High Cup Nick
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Smardale Gill Viaduct
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Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen
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Wainwright's Coast to …
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Appleby-in-Westmorland
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Murton Pike
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Tips from the Community
September 2, 2025, Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen
Frank's Bridge at Kirkby Stephen along the Coast To Coast route.
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July 24, 2024, Murton Pike
This is a lovely small peak to do; at 594 metres, it is not that high, but it climbs steeply from the car park on the outskirts of Murton. You can actually make a nice short loop by going up Murton Beck, which is quite gentle, and then come in from the north. There is the whitest of whitewashed trig point on top, with great views out towards Mell Fell to the SE and distant panoramas of the Lake District.
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January 13, 2024, High Cup Nick
One of the most impressive summits and views I’ve ever seen. Pics don’t do it justice. Amazing spot
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December 21, 2023, Murton Pike
This conical hill is located right on the edge of the North Pennines AONB and serves as a great spot to climb if you're looking for a quick ascent or a shorter family route. Despite its low altitude, it provides excellent panoramic views and if you're seeking a longer hike, you can link it up with High Cup Nick!
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December 17, 2023, Smardale Gill Viaduct
This very impressive viaduct, built in 1861, used to be a part of the South Durham and Lancashire Union Railway. It carried coal and coke across the Pennines (apparently over 1 million tons of coke per day!) The line closed in 1962. The viaduct's restoration was completed in 1992. It is a very impressive place to be these days; the blending of human engineering with the dramatic landscape here is very striking. The Viaduct can be run on, so no need to stay at the bottom - it's the best way to appreciate the awesome views of the valley, and it's a fantastic run!
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December 6, 2023, Smardale Gill Viaduct
This very impressive viaduct, built in 1861, used to be a part of the South Durham and Lancashire Union Railway. It carried coal and coke across the Pennines (apparently over 1 million tons of coke per day!) The line closed in 1962. The viaduct's restoration was completed in 1992. It is a very impressive place to be these days; the blending of human engineering with the dramatic landscape here is very striking.
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August 27, 2023, Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen
An interesting market town to look around with an impressive church and a number of independent shops.
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August 26, 2023, Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen
A nice centre to this small town with a number of shops, cafes and an impressive church.
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July 31, 2022, Appleby-in-Westmorland
Appleby in Westmorland is a small market town in the Eden valley. It's overlooked by the Pennine range to the east and there are views across to the Lake District in the west. The town has a good selection of shops and cafes. At the northern end of the wide main street is the Moot Hall dated at 1596. The Norman Appleby castle is a private home but is open to the public to visit, stay and eat. Check www.applebycastle.org for opening times, prices and events. It's a great stop or base on a bike ride around north-eastern Cumbria.
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June 25, 2022, Smardale Gill Viaduct
This place is of historical importance and from the bridge you get a beautiful view of the nature in the area.
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April 11, 2022, High Cup Nick
Just walk. If it's too windy (as we found it today), get to a nice spot, take it in, turn around (we had the kids with us, assessed the risk over and over so we just turned back)...
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March 14, 2022, Appleby-in-Westmorland
Great base for climbing Great Dun Fell with great cafes for recovery after you have done the climb, picturesque little town as well.
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December 18, 2021, High Cup Nick
A tiring climb (from the Eden valley) but totally worth it for the stunning views. Wear some good footwear! There are quite a few chunky rocky sections and wet boggy parts of the path.
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January 17, 2021, High Cup Nick
Great circular route from the village of Dufton. Well worth a look at this epic sight of breathtaking natural beauty.
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January 17, 2021, High Cup Nick
Fabulous place to visit in the Eden valley. Awe inspiring natural feature with great views
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January 13, 2021, Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen
A pleasant market town at the head of the Eden Valley, Kirkby Stephen enjoys an enviable position close to the Yorkshire Dales, North Pennines and Lake District. Wainwright's Coast to Coast passes through the town from the west, whilst Lady Anne's Way comes up from the south. A statue of Lady Anne stands in front of the visitor centre. A hike up to Nine Standards Rigg is splendid, with terrific views from the top. Meanwhile, fans of Arthurian legend might fancy an amble south into the Vale of Mallerstang and the romantic ruins of Pendragon Castle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in and around Ormside?
Ormside is rich in history. You can visit Ormside Hall, which features a 14th or 15th-century pele tower, or explore St. James' Church, a scheduled ancient monument dating back to the 12th century with a rare 'leper's squint'. The area also boasts the impressive Smardale Gill Viaduct, built in 1861, and the Appleby Castle in nearby Appleby-in-Westmorland.
What natural features are prominent in the Ormside area?
The region is known for its natural beauty. Ormside is nestled within the scenic Eden Valley, with the picturesque River Eden flowing nearby. You can also find the beautiful Rutter Force waterfall. A must-see is High Cup Nick, an exceptional example of a glaciated U-shaped valley offering breathtaking views from the North Pennines.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities near Ormside?
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. The Smardale Gill Viaduct is considered family-friendly, offering an impressive blend of engineering and nature. The market town of Kirkby Stephen, with its shops and cafes, is also a pleasant place for families to explore. For a shorter walk with great views, consider climbing Murton Pike.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Ormside?
Ormside and its surroundings offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails like the 'Warcop Old Bridge loop' or 'Jubilee Bridge loop from Appleby-in-Westmorland'. For cycling, there are road cycling routes such as the 'Appleby loop visiting Great Dun Fell & Haweswater' or 'Pendragon Castle – Eden Valley Farm Lanes loop'. Find more details on these activities in the Running Trails around Ormside and Road Cycling Routes around Ormside guides.
What is the best time to visit Ormside for outdoor activities?
The Eden Valley, where Ormside is located, is beautiful throughout the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for hiking and cycling, with lush green landscapes. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the valley, while winter can offer crisp, scenic walks, though some higher routes might require more preparation due to conditions.
Where can I find impressive viewpoints near Ormside?
For truly breathtaking vistas, head to High Cup Nick, which offers panoramic views of a glaciated U-shaped valley. Another excellent viewpoint is Murton Pike, a conical hill providing extensive views across the landscape, including distant panoramas of the Lake District.
What is the Viking heritage of Ormside?
Ormside has deep Viking roots. The village name itself is of Old Norse origin, meaning 'Orm's settlement' or 'Orm's hill', referring to the Viking warrior Orm. A Viking burial was discovered near St. James' Church in 1898, and the famous 9th-century Ormside Bowl, an outstanding piece of Saxon metalwork, was found in the churchyard (now housed in the York Museum).
Are there any unique architectural or engineering marvels to see?
Absolutely. The Ormside Viaduct, built between 1870 and 1875, is a striking example of Victorian engineering, carrying the Settle to Carlisle Railway across the River Eden with its ten arches. Additionally, the Smardale Gill Viaduct is another impressive 19th-century railway bridge that has been beautifully restored.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ormside?
Visitors frequently praise the dramatic landscapes and the blend of human engineering with natural beauty, particularly at the Smardale Gill Viaduct. The utterly breathtaking views from High Cup Nick are also a consistent highlight, often described as an 'epic sight'. The charming market town atmosphere of Kirkby Stephen and Appleby-in-Westmorland, with their shops and cafes, also receives positive feedback.
Are there opportunities for cycling near Ormside?
Yes, the area around Ormside is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes for road cycling and touring. Popular options include challenging rides like the 'Appleby loop visiting Great Dun Fell & Haweswater' or more moderate routes such as the 'Appleby-in-Westmorland – Great Dun Fell Climb loop'. For more detailed routes, consult the Road Cycling Routes around Ormside and Cycling around Ormside guides.
What is the significance of Kirkby Stephen in the region?
Kirkby Stephen is a pleasant market town situated at the head of the Eden Valley. It serves as a hub for various walking routes, including Wainwright's Coast to Coast and Lady Anne's Way. The town features a number of independent shops, cafes, and an impressive church, making it a great place to stop and explore.
Most popular attractions around Ormside
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