
Eden Valley Walk
Discover the serene beauty of the Eden Valley, offering picturesque riverside walks, challenging fell climbs, and rich historical sites.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for picnics & swims

Eden Valley Walk
Best Time
Ideal for picnics & swims
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the serene beauty of the Eden Valley, offering picturesque riverside walks, challenging fell climbs, and rich historical sites.
"A cracking bit of carrot cake to end the adventure!"

Pack for all weathers
Conditions can change quickly; bring layers and waterproofs for your Eden Valley walk. :cloud:
River dips are a must
Take a refreshing swim in the River Medway or Eden on a warm day. :ocean:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

River Medway Picnics
Near Ensfield Bridge
Enjoy a refreshing dip or a scenic picnic by the tranquil River Medway. Perfect for a summer's day escape.

Pendragon Castle Views
Eden Valley
Explore the historic ruins of Pendragon Castle and soak in the panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Murton Pike Summit
Westmorland Dales
Conquer Murton Pike for breathtaking 360-degree views across the Eden Valley and the North Pennines.

Coombes Wood Autumn Colors
Near Armathwaite
Wander through Coombes Wood and witness the vibrant tapestry of autumn foliage along the Eden Valley.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Plan Your Route
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for all weathers
Conditions can change quickly; bring layers and waterproofs for your Eden Valley walk. :cloud:
River dips are a must
Take a refreshing swim in the River Medway or Eden on a warm day. :ocean:
Look for wildlife
Keep an eye out for herons, curlews, skylarks, and even pheasants on your walk. :bird:
Fuel up with cake
End your adventure with a delicious slice of carrot cake or local treats. :cake:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for all weathers
Conditions can change quickly; bring layers and waterproofs for your Eden Valley walk. :cloud:
River dips are a must
Take a refreshing swim in the River Medway or Eden on a warm day. :ocean:
Look for wildlife
Keep an eye out for herons, curlews, skylarks, and even pheasants on your walk. :bird:
Fuel up with cake
End your adventure with a delicious slice of carrot cake or local treats. :cake:
Consider local pubs
Stop for a refreshing pint at a traditional pub like the Fox and Pheasant. :beer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Eden Valley for its stunning natural beauty, diverse walking opportunities, and historical charm. Many highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to spot wildlife. While some find facilities limited on trails, the free entry and friendly volunteers at local museums are consistently appreciated.
"Free entry. Lovey museum on Edenbridge high street. The museum is in an old cottage on two floors. Lots of local artefacts including a hoard of gold coins found. Some more modern WW2 history too. Lovely folks running the museum too. A few interactive exhibits. My kids loved it here. Takes about 20 mins to walk around. There’s also a gift shop."
Chris Gledhill
"Free entry. Very pleasant staff"
Jane
"Great museum showing local history. You can spend hour there reading through all the documents and information they have. Highly recommended."
marian nestorov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access points vary. For riverside walks, consider Tonbridge or Leigh train stations. For fell walks like Murton Pike, a short drive to Murton village is often required. :train2:
Parking can be limited, especially at popular trailheads. Murton village offers a small car park for Murton Pike. :car:
Yes, train stations like Tonbridge and Leigh provide access to certain sections of the walk. :bus:
Some local museums, like the one in Edenbridge, organize guided walks of the area. :walking:
While some sections are well-marked, having a map or using a navigation app is recommended for longer or more remote routes. :map:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most of the Eden Valley Walk is free to access, being public countryside and riverside paths. :moneywithwings:
No advance booking is typically required for the walks themselves, as they are open access. :calendar:
The Eden Valley is accessible year-round, from dawn till dusk. :sunriseovermountains:
Generally, no special permits are needed for day hikes on public footpaths in the Eden Valley. :scroll:
While the walks are free, specific attractions like Pendragon Castle may have their own entry fees or viewing restrictions. :castle:
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Terrain varies from flat riverside paths to more challenging, uneven ground on the fells. Sturdy footwear is essential. :hiking_boot:
Facilities are sparse on the trails themselves. Plan to use restrooms in nearby villages or pubs before you start. :toilet:
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Eden Valley Walk, but always keep them on a lead, especially near livestock or wildlife. :dog:
You might spot various birds like herons, curlews, and skylarks, as well as potentially deer or other small mammals. :deer:
Yes, swimming is possible in designated areas of the River Medway and River Eden, but exercise caution and be aware of currents. :swimmer:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Options are limited directly on the trails. Pubs like the Fox and Pheasant offer refreshments, and villages may have cafes. :forkandknife:
Absolutely! The riverside areas, especially near Ensfield Bridge, are perfect for picnics. :sandwich:
Look out for traditional pub fare and local cakes, like the carrot cake mentioned by visitors. :pie:
Villages within or bordering the Eden Valley, such as Armathwaite or Murton, will have local dining options. :restaurant:
It's best to stock up on picnic supplies before you start your walk, as shops are not common on the trails. :shopping_cart:
📸 📸 Photography
Scenic viewpoints like Murton Pike summit, castle ruins, and the winding rivers offer fantastic photo opportunities. :camera:
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) provide beautiful light for landscape photography. Autumn offers vibrant colors. :sunriseovermountains:
Yes, but be patient and respectful. Telephoto lenses can be helpful for capturing distant birds and animals. :camerawithflash:
While not widely advertised, local guides or photography enthusiasts might offer specialized tours. :camerawithflash:
Expect to see sweeping landscapes, river scenes, castle ruins, and shots of wildlife. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For slightly older children who enjoy a bit of adventure, shorter sections of the fell walks, like the lower slopes of Murton Pike, can provide a sense of accomplishment without being overly strenuous. Encourage them to spot wildlife and enjoy the open spaces. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider a shorter, more manageable route to keep energy levels up.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
For those who enjoy a challenge, tackling fells like Murton Pike or Mount Ida solo can be incredibly rewarding. It's always wise to inform someone of your intended route and expected return time. Consider carrying a fully charged phone and a basic first-aid kit for added safety.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to look for wildlife and smaller details – the texture of moss on a stone wall, the reflection of trees in the water, or a bird in flight can make for compelling images. Experiment with different angles and compositions to truly capture the essence of this beautiful region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Eden Valley's Rich History
Beyond castles, the valley has a more recent history tied to its rural heritage. Local museums, such as the one in Edenbridge, preserve artifacts and stories from the community, including significant finds like hoards of gold coins and wartime memorabilia. These museums are often run by passionate volunteers who are eager to share their knowledge.
For those interested in a deeper dive, consider researching the Cumbrian Way or local historical societies. Understanding the historical significance of the landmarks you encounter can transform a simple walk into an educational journey through time. The blend of natural beauty and historical depth is a key draw for many visitors.
Wildlife Spotting on Your Walk
Beyond birds, the varied habitats support other creatures. While sightings are less guaranteed, the possibility of encountering deer or smaller mammals adds an element of surprise to your trek. The rivers themselves teem with life, and observing the aquatic ecosystem can be fascinating.
To enhance your wildlife spotting experience, consider visiting during the quieter hours of the day, such as early mornings or late afternoons. Bringing binoculars can significantly improve your chances of observing distant wildlife without disturbing them. Respecting the natural environment by staying on marked paths and not feeding animals is crucial for conservation.
Navigating and Planning Your Eden Valley Route
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, peaks like Murton Pike provide rewarding summit views over the expansive Eden Valley and the North Pennines. These routes often require more preparation, including sturdy hiking boots and an understanding of the terrain.
When planning your Eden Valley walk route, it's advisable to consult detailed maps or online resources. While some paths are well-signposted, others may be less defined. Checking weather forecasts is also essential, as conditions in the hills can change rapidly. Prioritizing safety and choosing a route that matches your fitness level will ensure a more enjoyable experience.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit