Nine Standards Rigg

Nine Standards Rigg

Nine Standards Rigg Group Walks | Join a Walk

662m Elevation
159m Prominence
England Country

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Classifications

Marilyn Sim Hewitt Nuttall

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Elevation

662m

2,172 ft

Prominence

159m

Coordinates

54.4500, -2.2705

NY825060

OS Map

91 92

Explorer: OL19S

At the Summit

The summit features a distinctive cluster of stone standards, which are unique to this mountain. There is also a small cairn marking the highest point.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops particularly near the summit.

The mountain is primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, which gives rise to its rugged landscape and provides a habitat for various flora and fauna. The summit is dotted with distinctive stone pillars, or 'standards', which are ancient boundary markers.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, one can see the Eden Valley, the Lake District fells, and on a clear day, the Yorkshire Dales.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Nine Standards' refers to the nine stone structures at the summit, believed to have been markers for the local boundaries.

Historical Significance

The mountain has local historical significance, being part of ancient routes and is often mentioned in folklore.

Popular Routes

Nine Standards Rigg from Kirkby Stephen via Hartley

Moderate

This classic route begins in the market town of Kirkby Stephen, heading east through the village of Hartley. The route then follows a well-trodden path uphill through open moorland, leading directly to the summit of Nine Standards Rigg and its iconic drystone cairns. The return journey retraces the same route, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

13 km 4.5 hours

Circular Route via Nateby and Hartley Fell

Moderate

This circular walk starts in Nateby, heading north along the fellside before ascending Nine Standards Rigg. The path provides excellent views of the Eden Valley and the Yorkshire Dales. After enjoying the summit cairns, the route descends via Hartley Fell and loops back to Nateby through scenic farmland.

14.5 km 5 hours

Nine Standards Rigg via Birkett Hill and Ladthwaite

Moderate

Starting from the village of Birkett Hill, this route climbs steadily up Ladthwaite Beck before reaching the open moorland that leads to Nine Standards Rigg. The path is less travelled but offers a quieter ascent with beautiful views of surrounding valleys and hills. After reaching the summit, walkers can return by the same route or take an alternative descent to Hartley.

11 km 4 hours

Nine Standards Rigg from Ravenseat

Moderate

This route approaches Nine Standards Rigg from the east, starting in the remote hamlet of Ravenseat. The path ascends steadily across open countryside, offering a wild and rugged experience. The summit is reached after crossing moorland terrain, and the return journey follows the same route.

12 km 4.5 hours

Coast to Coast Route via Nine Standards Rigg

Hard

This section of the famous Coast to Coast Walk includes Nine Standards Rigg as a highlight. Starting from Kirkby Stephen, the route ascends to the summit before continuing eastward over moorland terrain. This longer linear route is ideal for experienced walkers as part of the multi-day Coast to Coast journey.

20 km 7 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is parking available at the base of the mountain off Crossthaw Lane. Spaces may be limited, so arrive early.

Public Transport

Kirkby Stephen is serviced by local bus routes from larger towns, making it accessible for walkers.

Nearby Facilities

Kirkby Stephen has several cafes, pubs, and toilet facilities. It’s advisable to stock up on essentials before heading up.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of sudden weather changes, as conditions can turn quickly. Steep drops near some areas of the summit may pose risks if not careful.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Nine Standards Rigg?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Nine Standards Rigg through the maps

Are there other walkers around Nine Standards Rigg?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Nine Standards Rigg search or of course create your own walk for Nine Standards Rigg

Can I organise a walk to Nine Standards Rigg?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Nine Standards Rigg.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Nine Standards Rigg?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Nine Standards Rigg here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible