Dufton - Local Info
The small 18th century fell-side village of Dufton nestles in the heart of the Eden Valley, a particularly unspoilt area of the Pennines, spared the heavy inroads of popular tourism, but still with easy access to the Lake District or to spectacular ascents on its own doorstep. An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Europe's first Geopark, this is the place for you if you have an interest in nature or geology. Stone built villages cluster around greens, and woodland lines streams which tumble to the Eden. This is an area rich in old friendly country pubs, including the Hostel's own 'local', The Stag Inn a mere 100 yards across the green.
On the Pennine Way, YHA Dufton offers many walking options, from short strolls to demanding cross country walks. For the energetic, a hike to High Cup Nick is a must when staying at this hostel. A geological marvel, High Cup Nick is a deep horse-shoe shaped glacial valley surrounded by steeply sloping fell sides. It is one of the highlights of the Pennine Way and only three miles from Dufton. The plateau summit of Cross Fell at 2930 ft is the highest point on the Pennines and also within reach of Dufton. For those wanting a gentle amble, Dufton Ghyll, managed by the Woodland Trust, is a delightful wood, home to deer, red squirrels and woodpeckers and looks stunning in May/June when the ground turns into a carpet of bluebells.
There are castles, Neolithic stone circles, and country parks all within a 5 mile radius. The National Trust 17th century gardens of Acorn Bank are nearby with the Trust's most comprehensive collection of medicinal and culinary herbs. For those with little ones a visit to Eden Ostrich Park, the Rheged Centre or Cumbria's only operational watermill at Little Salkeld make a great day out.
The attractive Cumbrian market town of Appleby, just over 3 miles away, has many historic buildings and is best known for the world famous Appleby Horse Fair held annually during the first week in June.
Have you ever seen a red squirrel? You will if you stay at YHA Dufton - sit in the dining room and watch the acrobatics of the red squirrels in the wildlife garden.
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