■ Distance: 9 miles/14.3km ■ Time: 5-6hours ■ Grade: Challenging

Experience the charm of the Peak District ’s dales, while visiting quaint country villages and stopping in unique youth hostels.

The traditional Lake District village of Threlkeld nestles at the foot of Blencathra – so you can make this a car-free weekend.

Vivienne Crow was staying at Newfield Hall as a guest of HF Holidays, which organises walking holidays in the Yorkshire Dales and other UK and European destinations. Self-guided, three-night breaks at

Swaledale isn’t all barns and drystone walls... This Yorkshire Dales walk takes you over open moors to discover the local mining heritage.

NEWCASTLE AND MARDU CIRCULAR Level Easy Elevation gain 217m Length 6.1km (1hr 49min) Description This round-the-hill loop trail from Newcastle leads through peaceful rural landscapes and small village