Monk's Moor

Rising above the market town of Kirkby Stephen, this high, grassy expanse marks the eastern fringe of the Yorkshire Dales. It is a quiet, broad-shouldered moorland offering a sense of solitude often missing from the busier peaks. The terrain is typical North Pennine fell—exposed, peat-flecked, and wonderfully wild under an immense sky.

• •The name likely refers to historical land ownership, as large tracts of these eastern fells were granted to monastic houses, such as Byland Abbey, for sheep grazing during the medieval period.
• •The hill is most easily reached from the B6270 road near Tailbridge Hill, which provides a high-level starting point for a relatively gentle approach across the moor.
• •The summit offers a commanding view westward across the Eden Valley to the distinctive flat top of Wild Boar Fell and the distant, rugged peaks of the Lake District.
• •In a thick Pennine mist, the moor's lack of distinct landmarks provides an excellent opportunity for walkers to test their compass skills against the repetitive scenery of the local peat hags.