Discover Orton: Landscape, Walking Routes and History

Orton combines impressive landscapes with an unusually rich range of historical traces. The village is surrounded to the south by the Howgill Fells, to the east by the Lake District, to the west by the Crosby Garrett Fells and to the north by Orton Scar. The prominent limestone escarpment gives the surrounding area a distinctive character. Anyone planning a trip combining nature, activity and cultural discoveries will find a variety of ways to shape their days here.

Landscape and walking routes around Orton

Streams flow through Orton, crossed by bridges and stepping stones. This detail makes the village appealing even away from its major sights: waterways, crossings and the surrounding hills are an integral part of its character. Walking routes lead across Orton Scar. Ferns and wildflowers grow in the deep rock crevices, so while walking, it is worth taking in not only the views across the landscape but also the distinctive character of the limestone escarpment.

Wainwright’s “Coast to Coast” Walk also passes through Orton. For travellers who want to choose accommodation based on their planned activities, this route provides a specific point of reference. Those focusing on walking can include the paths across Orton Scar and the long-distance trail running through the village in their travel plans. This still leaves room for different daily rhythms: experiences in the landscape can be combined with local history, a market visit or an appreciation of historic buildings.

Historic sites and notable buildings

Orton Scar bears not only traces of the landscape but also historical ones. A monument on the Scar marks the site of a beacon that was lit on 21 June 1887 for Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. Behind Orton Scar are Castle Folds, a small fort and a wall built to hold livestock during Scottish raids.

There are also notable buildings in the village itself. All Saints Church was built in 1293. Its square tower was constructed in the early 16th century and is finished with white lime plaster. Petty Hall is an Elizabethan building, while Orton Hall dates back to 1662. Anyone interested in architectural history can connect these different periods in their mind without reducing the village to a single historic attraction.

Another special feature is the Gamelands embanked stone circle. The Scheduled Monument is considered the only fully preserved example of an embanked stone circle in Cumbria. Together with the buildings in the village and the traces on Orton Scar, it creates a varied picture of the region’s past.

Market, regional products and choosing accommodation

The Orton Farmers’ Market adds a culinary and craft dimension to the landscape and historical experiences. It offers local, seasonal food and drinks, as well as locally made arts and crafts. For families and other travellers who enjoy combining several interests, the market can be a distinct part of the trip alongside walking routes and historic sites.

When looking for accommodation in Orton, it is therefore worth clarifying your personal priorities in advance. If the trip is to focus mainly on routes and landscapes, Orton Scar and the Coast to Coast Walk will be central. If historical discoveries or regional products are equally important, All Saints Church, the other buildings, Gamelands and the Farmers’ Market can complement the itinerary. This allows the search for a holiday apartment to be guided by the desired combination of activity, history and regional character.

Other places to consider when planning your trip

For further options, you can also view Cotehill, Backbarrow, Kirkby Thore, Crosby Garrett, Scotby, Wetheral, Kirkby-In-Furness and Storth.

For the main travel overview: Cumbria.