Nine stone cairns standing guard on top of Hartley Fell
High on Hartley Fell, overlooking the town of Kirkby Stephen, stand nine mysterious stone cairns known as the Nine Standards—a striking and much-loved local landmark.
Each cairn rises up to 4 metres tall, their origins cloaked in mystery. For years, it was believed they were only a few centuries old, but recent research suggests they’ve stood watch over the landscape for at least 800 years, and possibly far longer. In 2005, they were carefully restored, preserving their iconic silhouette against the Cumbrian sky.
While their original purpose remains unknown, the Nine Standards continue to inspire. They were even the inspiration for artist, Andy Goldsworthy’s ‘Pinfold Cones’, found in several villages across the Eden Valley.
Don’t miss the viewfinder cairn further along the summit ridge. It points out the sweeping vistas you can enjoy from this vantage point, including the Lake District and Pennine Fells—a breathtaking reward for those who make the climb.
Interested in finding out more about the Nine Standards? Here's some links to get you started:
