Eden Valley & North Pennines

The Eden Valley and the North Pennines are two of Cumbria’s best kept secrets. Whether you want calmness and serenity or an adrenaline-packed adventure, these epic landscapes offer the perfect place to reinvigorate.

From horse-riding to rock climbing, caving to paragliding, thrill seekers won’t be disappointed in this beautiful part of the county. Want to get out and about on two wheels? There are family friendly cycling routes, classic climbs, and mountain biking trails to discover. Plus, we’ve got stunning stretches of long-distance bike rides including the Pennine Cycleway, the Sea to Sea (C2C) and the Walney to Wear and Whitby (W2W). For uninterrupted walking, there’s everything from accessible routes like Dufton to High Cup Nick; to the challenge of the famous Pennine Way National Trail.

The North Pennines National Landscape is a rich tapestry of moorland heather, woodlands, hay meadows, and tumbling rivers and waterfalls. With some of the darkest skies in the country, it’s also the perfect place to stargaze.

At 1000ft above sea level, Alston shares the title of England’s highest market town; while the scenic South Tynedale Railway is the highest narrow gauge railway in the country. Higher still is the village of Nenthead, with its fascinating mining and industrial heritage.

This is also a cultural landscape. See if you can spot the ‘Eden Benchmarks’: ten magnificent contemporary stone sculptures which can be found along the length of the River Eden.

Myths and legends fill the air in the ancient market towns of Appleby and Kirkby Stephen (both stops on the world-famous Settle to Carlisle Railway). This part of Cumbria is renowned for its sprinkling of prehistoric stone circles, Neolithic forts and dramatic landmarks like the 13^th century Brougham Castle.

Soak in even more heritage at historic homes and gardens like Hutton in the Forest, Askham Hall, Acorn Bank and Dalemain Mansion and Historic Gardens – famous for the World's Original Marmalade Festival. The huge Lost Castle Adventure Playground at Lowther Castle and Gardens is also a must for families.

Don’t miss a visit to Penrith - the gateway to the Eden Valley, with its distinctive red sandstone architecture; plenty of atmospheric pubs; and specialist, family-run shops. Make sure to include a trip to Rheged with its galleries, cinemas, shops and café bursting with local produce.