Description
High Cup Nick
The High Cup Nick walk starts in Dufton, in the Pennines, on the Eastern edge of Cumbria. Dufton is a gorgeous little village and is very used to walkers coming through. This is mainly because it is not only directly on the famous “Pennine Way” but also on the alternative Pennine route, “A Pennine Journey“.
The start
We walk out of Dufton, to the South East and then follow a road up to Bow Hall. This is the Pennine Way, so is a very good path. This road eventually becomes a farm track and continues to climb up to Dod Hill and round towards the side of the valley.
The first sight of the dolerite columns gives you a clue as to what you are here for. However, there is still a distance before the classic High Cup Nick view appears. The walk up the “Narrow Gate” path is good though.
High Cup Nick
As the jaw-dropping view appears you will stand and wonder how this could be created. It is the result of glaciation but the horizontal hard dolerite or Whin Sill intrusion has created the steep sides and the craggy rim, that makes it so distinctive.
On the recce, we went down into the valley from here. This route is difficult and can be dangerous. So, instead we will follow a path along the South Eastern rim of the valley, back down to the valley bottom.
The route back
At Harbour Flatt farm we turn right and follow a varied path through Keisley. This route follows a road and then crosses a field to connect up with the “A Pennine Journey” long distance route. This route takes us directly back to Dufton along an easy path and eventually into Dufton Ghyll and the village.
Time permitting, we will enjoy refreshments in The Post Box Pantry in Dufton.
Hope to see you there.
Julie and Martin
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