The Eden Valley
This hidden corner of Cumbria is often missed by visitors but those lucky enough to arrive here will find an unspoilt, traditional market town situated on the River Eden, surrounded by the beautiful countryside of the Westmoreland Dales. Kirkby Stephen was the first town in Cumbria to be awarded "Walkers are Welcome" status and has a large network of well maintained local footpaths from our doorstep. We are well located on the routes of several long distance walks including Wainwright's Coast to Coast, The Pennine Journey and The Lady Anne Way.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park was extended in 2016 and now covers the Westmorland Dales surrounding Kirkby Stephen, giving deserved recognition of the beauty and history of our favourite local areas such as Mallerstang, Wild Boar Fell, The Howgill Fells as well an amazing range of flora and fauna, with four nature reserves within a 5 mile radius of Kirkby Stephen including Smardale Gill Nature Reserve.
The Lake District National Park, now a Unesco World Heritage Site and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are only short drive away should you wish to explore further afield or climb some of Englands highest mountains such as Cross Fell or Blencathra.
There are excellent opportunities for cyclists both on and off road as well several long distance routes such as the Walney to Wear.
We can also help organise activities such as horse riding, mountain bike hire & paragliding. If there is anything else you would like to experience whilst staying in The Eden Valley let us know and we shall see what we can do.
Kirkby Stephen West railway station is located on the famous Settle to Carlisle Railway line. This 72 mile stretch of railway is said by many to be England’s most scenic and passes through the rolling hills and market towns of the Eden Valley en route from the Yorkshire Dales to Carlisle. You may even be lucky enough to see a Steam Engine running.
There are many charming villages throughout the Eden Valley such as Ravenstonedale, Orton and Hartley some of which are within easy walking distance of Kirkby Stephen.
