Highlight • Monument
Nine Standards
Hiking
5.0
(65)
The Nine Standards are a group of immense, shapely cairns standing like guardians just to the north of the Hartley Fell’s true summit and trig point. Not only are they better to look at than the summit, their position also offers the best views out, across the undulating, patchwork blanket of Cumbria and the North Pennines.
A novel top to a sprawling fell
Hartley Fell is a rambling hill covered in shake holes, hags and sheepfolds. Boggy ground isn’t uncommon as you explore, so sturdy, preferably waterproof boots are useful. It’s easy to begin your ascent from Hartley, although you can easily walk from neighbouring Kirkby Stephen. Follow Ladthwaite Beck or Hartley Beck to reach the fell and begin exploring proper.
You can also begin your walk from the south, leaving your car on the B6270 and being mindful of the shake holes that proliferate over the landscape. No matter where you start, you’ll find a mixture of tracks, trails and pathless sections with the whaleback forms of surrounding fells rising and falling in the distance.
Glimpsing the Nine Standards Rigg is always surprising the first time you see the group, and they pull you onwards, demanding attention. Standing between their columnular forms, look northwards across unfolding, verdant landscape. No one knows their provenance but speculation has it that they were built by the Romans to look like troops from afar.
Kirky Stephen is a good base, with everything you could need. Campsites and villages are liberally scattered around this charming region as well.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
North Pennines National Landscape
Tips
May 26, 2016
Hiking
Nobody knows the meaning or benefit of the Nine standards. They are still cult!
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November 14, 2018
Hiking
August 24, 2021
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Nine Standards
4.6
(5)
29
hikers
The Nine Standards Rigg and Millstones Pillar loop offers a moderate hike through the wild English countryside of the Yorkshire Dales. You will experience varied terrain, from accessible paths to boggy moorland, especially after rain. This 6.5-mile (10.5 km) route involves a steady ascent, gaining 725 feet (221 metres) over approximately 2 hours and 57 minutes. Along the way, you'll encounter the unique Lamps Moss Limestone Pavement, which has a moon-like appearance. The trail provides expansive views across the Vale of Eden from its higher points.
This moderate hike requires good fitness and sure-footedness, particularly on the unpaved and sometimes undefined sections. Be prepared for potentially very boggy and wet conditions underfoot, especially on the peaty moorland around White Mossy Hill after rainfall. Navigation can be tricky in poor weather or low visibility, so ensure you have suitable skills and tools. The route involves sustained climbing to the high moorland, including a steep section around Faraday Gill. A portion of this loop is part of the popular Coast to Coast walk, so expect busy periods.
The most famous feature of this trail is the Nine Standards Rigg, a collection of nine large, dry-stone cairns lining the summit of Hartley Fell. Their origin is a mystery, with theories suggesting they were boundary markers, Roman defenses, or simply built by locals. These iconic cairns are at least 800 years old and have been rebuilt over time. You will also pass the impressive Millstones Pillar, set against a fantastic backdrop. Near the Nine Standards, a trig point marks the true summit and a watershed divide where rivers flow to both the Irish Sea and the North Sea.
4.3
(16)
125
hikers
15.1km
04:32
480m
480m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
36
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 650 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
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