The Eden Valley

The River Eden has its source in the Mallerstang Valley, gradually descending until it reaches the market town of Kirkby Stephen. The surrounding countryside is perfect for walking and cycling, six long distance walks / cycleways pass through the town.

Appleby straddles the River Eden; the tree lined main street links the Castle with the Church, making it one of the prettiest towns in the valley. Every June the Appleby Horse Fair gathers together travelling folk from all over the country, buying and selling horses, keeping alive a 300 year old tradition.

Historic Penrith, “Gateway to the Northern Lakes”, is the major town in the Eden Valley, with a good mix of traditional shops selling locally made products and crafts, including famed Cumberland Sausage and Penrith Toffee.

The River Eden meanders North through picturesque villages of red sandstone, eventually reaching the historic Border City of Carlisle with its award winning museum, castle, cathedral and extensive shopping centre.

Cross Fell is the Highest Part of the Pennine chain and dominates the Eden skyline. This wonderful area is aptly named “England’s Last Wilderness”. Alston, the highest market town in England, has steep cobbled streets, a market cross, ancient yards and old stone houses. Alston Moor’s links with its prosperous lead mining past are portrayed at Nenthead Lead Mining Centre.

The famous Settle to Carlisle railway runs through the heart of Eden, with stations at Armathwaite, Lazonby, Langwathby, Appleby and Kirkby Stephen. Steam trains occasionally travel along this line.

Eden is wonderful walking country, either a leisurely walk along river banks and lake shore or take to the higher paths over the Pennines and Lake District fells. Cyclists can follow the coast to coast (C2C) and Cumbria Cycle Way, both waymarked, or enjoy the tracks that abound in the area.

The River Eden provides challenging fishing, and has in place a “Go Wild” scheme to enable visitors to try wild fishing on the river. Information about this scheme is on the Go Wild website.

The Northern Lakes, Ullswater and Haweswater, are said to be unrivalled for scenery, the mountain grandeur mirrored in the lakes. The Ullswater Steamers cruise nine miles from the gently rolling fells at Pooley Bridge to Glenridding, overlooked by the majestic slopes of Helvellyn. Travel along the shore of Haweswater to the rugged fells of Mardale Head, the only site in England where Golden Eagles nest.

There are plenty of attractions to visit during your stay, historic houses, castles, gardens, craft workshops, galleries and museums. Sporting facilities include sailing, windsurfing, golf, squash, tennis, horse riding and fishing.

Your eating requirements are catered for by excellent restaurants, traditional pubs, tea and coffee shops, either in the towns or one of the many picturesque villages.