Dufton Pike, a striking conical shaped hill located in the Eden Valley, Cumbria, is an often-overlooked treasure for a good hill walk. Standing at 1,578 feet (480 metres) tall it is not a huge hill but the views from the top are very rewarding.
When thinking of Cumbria, many only think of The Lake District. Of course the mountains and lakes are incredible and a favourite haunt of myself and many others.
But this side of Cumbria, the Eden Valley, on the other side of the M6, gives rise to tremendous views, nature and lanscapes that can give any other area of beauty a run for its money.
When I lived in the Eden Valley I used to often climb Dufton Pike on a whim for views and solace. Even now when in the area it is a grand wander I enjoy.
In this article, I will take a look into various aspects of Dufton Pike, including its accessibility, the walking experience, and the charming village that lies at its base.

Walk Details
This circular walk of Dufton Pike is great for all ages. The actual climb of Dufton Pike is straight up and steep but it is not high so not as bad as it may look.
Walk Route Info
Distance: 4.6 miles (7.4 km)
Total Ascent: 1154 ft (352 m)
Difficulty: Easy (a steep uphill)
Time: 2 hours

Location and Parking
Dufton Pike is situated by the quaint village of Dufton, approximately 10 miles south of Penrith, England. The nearest major towns to Dufton are Appleby-in-Westmorland and Kirkby Stephen, both of which are well connected by road.
There is a small car park in Dufton village, near the village hall, but spaces can be quite limited. The postcode is CA16 6DB.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early in the day to secure a parking spot and enjoy a leisurely exploration of the area.
Dufton
Before or after the walk it is certainly worth exploring the lovely village of Dufton itself. It is quiet and colourful, with the traditional sandstone houses and buildings. It is like stepping back in time. There is a great village green surrounded by buildings dating back to the 17th Century.

One thing you cannot miss is the cone shape of Dufton Pike rising up behind.
Dufton is situated on the Pennine Way and comes after the descent from the glorious High Cup Nick, and before the ascent of Cross Fell, the highest point of the Pennines.
For refreshments and resting there is a pub, The Stag Inn plus near the green you have the Post Box Pantry. A lovely little cafe where you can rest and enjoy a cuppa or food after a great walk.

The Walk Up
The path to Dufton Pike from Dufton is quite straight forward when you get out of the village. Come out of the car park, turn right onto the lane and follow the bend to the left. Look straight ahead and you will see a gap in the buildings straight on so avoid following the road round to the right again.
The path goes straight on via a tree lined well laid pathway where you see Dufton Pike getting closer on your front and left.

You will see a small metal shepherd hut and gate where you go through and keep straight ahead. Walking up and when you really get beside the pike you will see a kissing gate to your left. Now the fun begins.
This is where you will work your heart and lungs. Basically nearly all the climb is from here to the summit and a steep grassy path. It is not overwhelming a climb as you can see the top is within reach, and the rewards.

At The Summit
At the top, take the time to get your breat back and look around you to see some magnificent views.

Looking back where you have come you see Dufton down below but then for miles beyond. All across the Eden Valley and all the way up and down it. The Lake District mountains make your horizon all across to the west. The unmistakeable Blencathra bookending them.
Dotted in the landscape of the valley are landmarks such as Appleby Castle. Looking left you can see the Howgills stretch across the head of the valley with the likes of Nine Standards Rigg.
Behind you, the Pennine mountains themselves tower over you with Cross Fell looming large.
I have been up here many times and each time the view changes depending on the season, weather and colours of nature. A great place to sit and think.
I hae also been up with all my canine companions over time.

The Geology
If you look left and right you will notice that this standalone conical shaped hill is not alone. There are a line of them along the foot of the line of the pennines. For instance looking south there is a larger yet similar shaped hill, Murton Pike. To the north you have Knock Pike.

So, what has created this line of conical, mini volcano shaped hills that run the bottom of the larger North Pennine tops?
As you drove through the Eden Valley to get here you may have noticed all the older buildings made of local sandstone. A sign that here there was once a sea or ocean. The big North Pennines were formed too by being under an ocean when the area was close to the equator. Over 300 million years ago the sea floor hardened to limestone, grit and shale.
When you are at the top of Dufton Pike you will see a gap between these conical hills and the actual Pennines. This is on old fault in the earth’s crust and the rocks of the hills like Dufton Pike are actually different, being volcanic. Formed even longer ago, between 480 and 420million years ago. The oldest rocks of the North Pennines.

The Walk Back Down
From the top you just start to come down the grassy path opposite to where you came up.
Eventually you reach a point you can go no further and you have to take a sharp right then ahead take a sharp left. Now it feels like you have entered a secret little valley. In the summer it is so lush and green here.

When you get amongst the trees, keep an eye out for the special Red Squirrels that live in the area.
Make sure to keep looking back to Dufton Pike for a different view of it.

You will come to join the Pennine Way, yurn left and follow the path/track all the way back into the village for refreshments.
Nearby Attractions
I have already discussed a few of the places, walks and landmarks in the vicinity of Dufton Pike that you can discover. But that is of course not all.
You can spend days in the Eden Valley finding hidden gems like the majestic mill waterfall of Rutter Force or head over Orton and Great Asby Scar.
History lovers can venture to the ruins 3 other of Lady Anne Clifford’s castles nearby, Brougham Castle towards Penrith, Brough Castle just down the A66 or the wonderfully set Pendragon Castle with a mysterious history that its name suggests.

Conclusion
Dufton Pike is truly a gem of a little hill climb in the Eden Valley, Cumbria. It offers spectacular views, a rewarding walking experience, and the charm of a quaint village. I love the area of Dufton and the North Pennines, hope you do too.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to hike Dufton Pike?
The best time to hike Dufton Pike is during late spring to early autumn, specifically between May and September, when the weather is mild and the scenery is vibrant. I love it after snowfall in winter too.
How long does it take to hike Dufton Pike?
A typical hike to Dufton Pike and back takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views at the summit.
Is the trail suitable for beginners?
The trail to Dufton Pike is easy to moderately challenging, making it suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. It is well-marked and offers stunning views throughout the walk.