The High Cup Walk, Cumbria

Overview

Hidden beneath the hulking great Pennines, Julia sets off from the ancient village of Dufton in search of one of Britain’s best kept secrets – the Grand Canyon of the North, a magnificent hanging glaciated valley, that’s been 500 million years in the making. A true highlight of the Pennine Way, it was described by walking legend, Alfred Wainwright, as a ‘natural wonder’ and ‘unforgettable sight’. Along her route, Julia meets a family of Olympic rake makers, learns about the notorious Helm wind – the only British wind deemed worthy of a name - and meets Mike Hartley, the current record holder of the Pennine Way, who ran the whopping 268 miles in under three days! It’s then on to High Cup Nick, at the top the impressive glaciated valley, with mesmerizing views over High Cup Gill. With over 16 million people visiting the nearby Lake District each year, and just 6000 getting up to High Cup - the Grand Canyon of the North is a very well-kept secret.