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End: Sedburgh, OS Grid: SD657922 Elevation Profile (x: waypoint number, y: metres)
Gain (+/- 10%): 934m (3064ft)
Total (+/- 10%): 2001m (6565ft)
Loss (+/- 10%): 1067m (3501ft)
Max. Elevation: 680m (2230ft)
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OL19 - Howgill Fells and Upper Eden Valley
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Waypoints
The walk starts in Ravenstonedale, to the northern side of the Howgills. There are buses here from Kirkby Stephen and Sedburgh, although they are fairly infrequent. It's easy enough to walk in from Kirkby Stephen railway station, though - just 40 minutes away over Smardale Fell.
Once past Tarn Riggs, you can pick your own line up on to the first summit of the day, Green Bell. It's open access land with few clear paths, so you can hug the valley or the ridge line as you climb.
Stick to the high ground and continue on to Randygill Top. Already you will feel a long way from civilisation, despite being less than five miles from one of Europe's biggest motorways!
The route drops sharply down the hillside, which could come as a bit of a wake up to the old calfs. Head south when you reach the valley floor.
This is the highest point in the Howgills, although the joy is in the sense of solitude rather than reaching a dramatic summit. From here, there are valleys north, south, east and west - scan the surroundings for a suitable camping spot away from the windy tops.
Day Two starts with a climb back up from wherever you pitched down for the night. Head for Cautley Crag, and an early morning wake-up call as you look down the steep face of Cautley Crag. Head for Cautley Spout, the spectacular waterfall at the northern end of the crag.
Follow the steep path that descends alongside the Cautley Spout falls. Before reaching Low Haygarth, cross the river and follow the bridleway that runs along the River Rawthey.
This may seem a timid way to finish a dramatic walk, but it is actually a lovely stroll - a peaceful valley and a chance to enjoy the splendour of the Howgills from below.
The path leads right into the town of Sedburgh, with good bus links to the surrounding towns in Yorkshire and Cumbria. Easy to head off for more walking in the Lakes or Dales!
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