Where The Lakes Meets The Dales

Did you know that part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park is actually in Cumbria?

What’s more, this lush patchwork of green valleys and high heather moorland dotted with traditional villages boasts some of the best cycling and walking trails in all of England.

The Medieval market town of Kendal is a great place to start your journey from the Lakes to the Dales. Take in the epic views from the ruins of Kendal Castle, sample the food scene with some quirky bistros and cool cocktail bars, and take in the vibrant theatre, music, art and events at The Brewery Arts Centre.

Then head east into the Dales. Finding the perfect place to reflect and recharge your senses isn’t hard in this unspoilt corner of Cumbria. Hunt down Cautley Spout - England's highest waterfall above ground – or tackle Cumbria’s newest mountain, Calf Top (which was only officially designated in 2016).  Cyclists can join the Lakes & Dales Loop and get off the beaten track on two wheels.

Sedbergh sits at the foot of the Howgill Fells and oozes historic character, with hidden layers of Norman, Viking and Saxon heritage. Officially designated as ‘England’s Book Town’, it’s a centre for independent book shops as well a haven for locally sourced food and drink. (For a true field to fork dining experience, the Black Bull is not to be missed).

For arts and crafts old and new, Farfield Mill is another must. Set over four floors of a restored Victorian woollen mill, this unique heritage centre is home to artists’ studios, galleries, workshops and demonstrations.

Visit Kirkby Lonsdale for an array of atmosphere pubs and eateries like The Sun Inn and Plato’s, and quirky independent shops bursting with handmade crafts and gifts you won’t find anywhere else. After some serious retail therapy, the famous ‘Ruskin’s View’ is the perfect place for a selfie.

And if you’re still looking for some moments of unspoilt tranquillity, head to Cumbria’s secluded Dentdale Valley. Dent train station is England’s highest mainline station and sits on the spectacular Settle to Carlisle railway line.