The best MTB trails around Scaleby

Askerton Castle is a rare example of a fortified medieval manor house, situated in remote north Cumbria, about three miles north of Hadrian's Wall. The original building was constructed around 1290 as an unfortified hall, but in the late 15th century, two battlemented towers—the Dacre Tower and the Dovecot Tower—were added by Thomas, Lord Dacre, as part of a border defense against the notorious Border Reivers. In the 16th century, the complex was expanded with a stable block and additional wings for troop accommodation. A third tower on the northwest corner is believed to have been lost, possibly to fire, but traces of its stonework and staircases are still visible in the walls. The structure contains impressive oak beams, dated between 1494 and 1510, and shows clear stages of architectural evolution—from a simple hall to a military stronghold. Although the castle is not open to the public, it is now part of the Askerton Castle Estate, an organic farm that produces beef, lamb, pork, and poultry. The building is a Grade I listed building, indicating its exceptional historical value.

Bewcastle Fort (Latin: Fanum Cocidi) was a Roman fort in the English town of Bewcastle. The fort lay north of Hadrian's Wall and was connected by a road (Maiden Way) to the Banna (Birdoswald) fort on the wall. The fort's Latin name (The Shrine of Cocidius) indicates that it enclosed an existing local shrine. The Romans equated the deity Cocidius with Mars, and the fort was possibly built there to control tribal gatherings. In the second century, the Cohors I Dacorum mil. eq. (a mixed cohort with infantry and cavalry in dual garrisons, with auxiliaries from Dacia) was stationed there. A dual garrison cohort was also likely stationed there in the third century. By 400, before Hadrian's Wall was abandoned, Bewcastle Fort had already been abandoned. Around 1092, Bewcastle Castle was built in a corner of the former fortress, using Roman stone. The church of St. Cuthbert is also located within the old fortress walls.

Cattle grid, a bypass and an intersection

This impressive Augustinian priory, founded around 1169, is just a stone's throw from Hadrian's Wall. Its ruins tell stories of kings, wars, and pilgrims. King Edward I stayed here in 1306 during his final campaign against the Scots, and Robert the Bruce later attacked the monastery. The church ruins still stand tall, with a dramatic triple-arched structure. Built partly with stones from Hadrian's Wall, they include Roman inscriptions. Inside, you'll find the Lanercost Cross (1214) and the Lanercost Dossal, a work of art designed by William Morris.

To the right of the church entrance door is a tap with fresh water. :)

Carlisle is a wonderful place to begin or end a ride. There are a number of impressive landmarks, including Carlisle Castle & Carlisle Cathedral, as well as a wealth of independent shops, cafés, restaurants and bars.

A winding gravel track leads you along the pretty River Caldew in Carlisle. This is a very flat and easy route and is ideal for riders of all ages.

Here you can enjoy sensational views over the remote Scottish landscape of The Gairs.