natural environment of kirkby stephen...

Stenkrith Park 

Is where the Eden drops into a deep gorge known as Coop Kernan (otherwise known as the Devil's mustard mill). The swift current has eroded fantastic rock forms and potholes in the hard brockram rock. The Millennium bridge over the gorge provides access to the Northern Viaducts Round and the Poetry Path.

EwBank Scar

A favourite Victorian beauty spot, has fine views and cascading waters. It is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its limestone grasslands and semi-natural woodland. Access by footpath from Kirkby Stephen or Nateby.

Wild Boar Fell 

Is where the last wild boar in England is said to have been killed by Sir Richard de Musgrave in 1409. The legend was given some credence when Sir Richard's tomb was opened to reveal a tusk from a wild boar (on display in the church).

Argill Woods 

Is a nature reserve on the steep sides of Argill Beck. Ash and birch are found on the limestone, with oak on the neutral soils. Old coal mining adits are now inhabited by bats.

Waitby Greenriggs

Is another CWT reserve, supporting a rich floral diversity and many species of butterflies. Access is via a stile on the lay-by.

Augill Pasture 

Is a rare northern hay meadow habitat, supporting distinctive plant communities that are unique to Britain. The site is owned by Plantlife and managed by Cumbria Wildlife Trust. A smelt mill to the west of the reserve is where lead ore was brought to be smelted into lead.

Warcop Training Area

Is an army training area and a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its blanket bogs, limestone pavements, calcareous grasslands and alpine heaths. The area also has 16 scheduled ancient monuments ranging from Neolithic burial mounds to lost medieval villages. Public access is permitted on Sunday afternoons and on designated weekends - see www.access.mod.uk for access dates.

Smardale Gill

Is a National Nature Reserve, noted for its flower-rich limestone grasslands, marshy areas and woodlands. The disused Stainmore railway gives access to the reserve on foot, cycle or horseback, which provides stunning views from the top of Smardale Gill viaduct. In addition to the wildlife, there is an old packhorse bridge, lime kilns, a limestone quarry and remains of railway heritage. Managed by Cumbria Wildlife Trust. Parking at Smardale Hall or at Newbiggin-on-Lune.