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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 area is home to the idyllic market towns of Kendal, Kirkby Lonsdale, Kirkby Stephen and Sedbergh. You’ll also find the charming villages of Dent and Casterton. Set amongst green hills in the magnificent Yorkshire Dales National Park, but also close to the rugged eastern fells of the Lake District, this is a walker’s paradise.
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 in quirky bistros and local 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.
The historic market town of Sedbergh sits at the foot of the Howgill Fells, 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 both old and new, Farfield Mill is the place to be. 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 a fantastic selection of cosy, atmospheric pubs and eateries; and quirky independent shops bursting with handmade crafts and gifts. After some serious retail therapy, head to the famous ‘Ruskin’s View’ – so named after poet and artist John Ruskin, who declared it to be ‘one of the loveliest views in England’.
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.
Explore
A wonderful selection of eco stallholders providing information on protecting the environment and…
On sunday 4th october 2026 a large team of 78 male/female volunteers will attempt to pull a 11.5…
Painted explorations of Dales vernacular buildings, archaeology, and the passage of time through…
Innovative contemporary quilts exploring pathways, journeys, and connections through cutting-edge…
Relax into Weaving (Workshop) with Denise Bryan £70 Plus £10 for Materials Come and enjoy a mindful…
Stained Glass Workshop with Annette McMillan £70 plus £15 on the day for materials Learn the…
Where the Wall Leads Acrylic Painting Workshop with Stuart Gray £70 + £7 for materials and framing…
Handwoven Bracelet Workshop – Isobelle Stothert £70 plus £5 for materials Treat yourself to a…
An anniversary exhibition celebrating British wool, craftsmanship, collaboration, and twenty-five…
Misty Wood Watercolour Painting Workshop with Ruth Clayton £70 plus £7 for materials and a frame on…
Textile artworks inspired by the Cumbrian landscape, blending felting techniques with recycled,…
Fibre Art Lampshade Workshop with Wendy Ann Stanger £70 + £10 materials (payable on the day) Join…
Playing with Pattern Weaving Workshop with Jan Beadle £75 plus £5 for materials on the day Enjoy a…


I do not know a place more naturally divine

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20 St Lukes Rd, Kirkby Stephen
Set your own pace on the Coast to Coast. Choose how many rest days you need and how far you’d like to walk each day. Opt for one of our self-guided tours or customise your trip with bespoke options. With flexible start dates throughout the season,…
Kirkby Lonsdale, Carnforth
Woodclose Park is situated in the beautiful valley of the River Lune, right on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and within easy reach of the Lake District. It's a peaceful and tranquil holiday park, offering guests an escape from the hustle and…
Kirkby Stephen
Charming 14-bed 4* AA Highly Commended Inn in gorgeous conservation village with separate restaurant, small private restaurant, bar and lounge.
Kirkby Lonsdale
The Sun Inn’s AA rosette rated restaurant is led by our experienced Head Chef, Joe Robinson, and his passion for local, seasonal produce from the Lake District, North Yorkshire and wider Kirkby Lonsdale area.
Sedbergh
Both cottages have been carefully modernised and tastefully furnished to a high standard. Fountain Cottage an early 18C cottage that has all the facilities for a cosy and comfortable visit. Middleton's Cottage an early 18C cottage skilfully brought…
Sedbergh
Howgills House offers group accommodation with luxury touches. With 12 en-suite bedrooms sleeping up to 28 guests we're the perfect place for family celebrations and coprotate stays. Voted among the Times top 20 celebration houses, why not come and…
Kirkby Stephen
The Carthouse is one of three luxurious cottages at The Green Cumbria. Super stylish barn conversion, idyllic rural location, dogs welcome, enclosed garden, wood-burner, pubs nearby and great walks from the door.
Kirkby Stephen
The Haystore is one of three luxurious cottages at The Green Cumbria. Super stylish barn conversion, idyllic rural location, dogs welcome, enclosed garden, wood-burner, pubs nearby and great walks from the door.
29 Main St, Kirkby Lonsdale
Step into The Vault and unlock the history of Kirkby Lonsdale through this interactive, and free to enter, exhibit located in the town’s former bank vault.
Sedbergh
St Marks Stays is a group holiday accommodation and retreat venue located between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, with dedicated yoga spaces, creative and wellbeing facilities. With garden views of the Howgill Fells this countryside…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL