Moorhouse and Cross Fell
Moorhouse and Cross Fell is a large protected nature reserve in northern England spanning parts of Durham and Cumbria. The terrain contains open moorlands, hay meadows, juniper woods, limestone grasslands, and blanket bogs, with Cross Fell rising as a prominent peak within this varied landscape.
Shepherds and farmers grazed livestock here for centuries, shaping the land through stone walls and pastures that remain visible today. In recent times, conservation efforts have restored some areas to woodland or rich grasslands while protecting the reserve's wild character as part of the Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve.
The name Moorhouse comes from an old dwelling that once stood on the moor itself. Today you can see scattered stone walls and grazing lands that reflect centuries of shepherding and farming traditions still woven into the landscape.
Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing since conditions change quickly and winds can be strong in the open moorland. Bring water and snacks, stick to marked trails to protect the landscape, and plan your visit with extra time since some paths are rocky and uneven.
The area is a UNESCO Global Geopark recognized internationally for its geological importance, and it contains dark sky sites where stargazing is possible away from city lights. Plant species that emerged after the last Ice Age still grow here, telling the story of the land's long history of change and survival.
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