The Lune Valley and Howgills

The valley of the River Lune winds through some of the most peaceful countryside in north-west England, flowing between the dramatic uplands of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the mountains of the Lake District National Park. Alongside the rounded hills of the Howgill Fells, the area offers quiet valleys, open moorland, historic villages and sweeping views across one of England’s most unspoilt walking landscapes.
This Cicerone guidebook helps you explore the Lune Valley and Howgills through 40 scenic day walks ranging from 5–18km (3–11 miles), suitable for walkers of all abilities. With clear route descriptions, mapping and practical planning advice, it provides everything you need to enjoy memorable walks from riverside paths to high fell summits.

40 circular day walks explore the varied landscapes surrounding the River Lune, following the river as it flows from Kirkby Stephen to panoramic ridges across the Howgill Fells and downstream towards its mouth at Morecambe Bay
Routes of 1–6 hours allow you to plan everything from gentle countryside strolls to more challenging fell walks across the uplands between the Lake District National Park and Yorkshire Dales National Park
Clear step-by-step directions with 1:50,000 OS mapping help you navigate confidently as you explore valleys, ridgelines and historic market towns such as Sedbergh and Kirkby Lonsdale
Downloadable GPX files provide easy digital navigation on GPS devices or smartphone apps while discovering secluded valleys and open moorland across Cumbria, Lancashire and the western Dales
Practical information on transport, facilities, wildlife and geology helps you plan and enjoy rewarding days out while learning more about the landscapes shaped by the River Lune and its tributaries


From peaceful riverside paths and ancient farmland to the sweeping ridges of the fells, this guidebook opens the door to walking in the Lune Valley and Howgills, one of northern England’s most rewarding yet overlooked walking regions. Discover quiet valleys, panoramic fell-top views and timeless countryside as you explore the Lune Valley and Howgills on half-day and full-day walks suitable for all abilities.