Cautley Spout waterfall can be seen from the A683, set against the Howgill Fells just outside Sedbergh. It's only when you get closer, you realise that it's actually a series of narrow waterfalls, tumbling about 650 feet.
A pleasant 40 minute walk from the road will take you to Cautley Spout, starting gently as the path meanders alongside the grassy river bank. As you start to hear the water rushing downhill, the path starts to climb much more steeply. Luckily by then the prospect of an amazing view from the top of Cautley Crag is tantalisingly close.
Archaeologists have found the houses and fields of an Iron Age farming community in the valley below, with a stone-edged track from the settlement to the falls. It appears that Cautley Spout may have had some special significance to these former inhabitants. Nowadays Cautley Spout acts as a magnet for visitors seeking a short walk that justifies a trip to the pub afterwards.
A pleasant 40 minute walk from the road will take you to Cautley Spout, starting gently as the path meanders alongside the grassy river bank. As you start to hear the water rushing downhill, the path starts to climb much more steeply. Luckily by then the prospect of an amazing view from the top of Cautley Crag is tantalisingly close.
Archaeologists have found the houses and fields of an Iron Age farming community in the valley below, with a stone-edged track from the settlement to the falls. It appears that Cautley Spout may have had some special significance to these former inhabitants. Nowadays Cautley Spout acts as a magnet for visitors seeking a short walk that justifies a trip to the pub afterwards.
Fortunately the path leads directly back to the road and the Cross Keys Inn. Unfortunately for those seeking alcohol, this is a temperance inn: a pub without any beer!
The 1732 date stone above the entrance refers to John and Agnes Howgill who owned the building when it was a farmhouse.
The 1732 date stone above the entrance refers to John and Agnes Howgill who owned the building when it was a farmhouse.
It was once possible to buy alcohol at the Cross Keys but the then landlord was drowned when trying to help a customer home from the Inn.
The next owner, Mrs. Edith Bunney removed the licence in 1902. She left the property to the National Trust who now let it to Alan and Christine Clowes who now maintain one of the cosiest "pubs" you'll find in the Dales.
The next owner, Mrs. Edith Bunney removed the licence in 1902. She left the property to the National Trust who now let it to Alan and Christine Clowes who now maintain one of the cosiest "pubs" you'll find in the Dales.
You might not find any beer there but the Cross Keys has plenty to welcome the thirsty visitor, serving morning coffee, lunch, teas and dinners (essential to reserve for dinner).
There are comfortable rocking chairs, a piano which you're welcome to play and even a wind up gramophone.
You're also welcome to take your own alcoholic beverages.
There are comfortable rocking chairs, a piano which you're welcome to play and even a wind up gramophone.
You're also welcome to take your own alcoholic beverages.
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