Itinerary Planner

Explore the Upper Eden Valley

The Eden Valley has some of the most incredible scenery, not just in Cumbria but the whole of the country. If you are looking for a relaxing break away from the crowds this is the place for you. This itinerary can be done in a day or you may fancy staying for a few days and taking it at a more leisurely pace.

A good place to start is Penrith as its really easy to get to. This busy market town is just off junction 40 of the M6. If you wanted to arrive by train and hire a car when you get here, Penrith is on the main West Coast Main line linking London, the Midlands and Scotland.

Apart from a good range of interesting shops, Penrith has some fine sandstone buildings and the ruins of a castle, built in the 14th century to defend against the Scottish raiders.

Once you’ve explored Penrith and enjoyed a treat in one of the delightful coffee shops it is time to hit the road. Jump onto the A66 heading towards Temple Sowerby and Appleby.

Next stop is Brougham Castle - just a 7 minute drive (3.3 miles) away. This place is one of the finest ruins in Cumbria, built between 1169 and 1180.  Kings James l and Charles l both stayed here and in the 17^th Century the castle was restored by indomitable Lady Anne Clifford. The Castle is owned by English Heritage and is open all year round. There is an accessible path round the castle too.

Back in the car for 7 minutes (5 miles) following the signs for Appleby you will arrive at Temple Sowerby. Here the gardens at Acorn Bank are well worth a visit.

They are in the grounds of the historic mansion which was built in 1228 and owned by the Knights Templar – which is how the village got its name.

The property and gardens are managed by the National Trust and are open April-October.

Continue from Temple Sowerby on the A66 for 9 minutes to Appleby-in-Westmorland (6miles).

Once the county town of Westmorland, Appleby is still an important market town, set beside the River Eden and also on the Settle to Carlisle railway route, Appleby is well worth an explore.

Appleby castle is a great place to visit and look around to discover the history of this area and the town also boasts a wealth of independent shops and tea rooms.

From Appleby continue on the A66 for 12 minutes to Brough (8 miles).

At the foot of Stainmore lies the settlement of Brough, a major coaching town in the 18th and 19th centuries.  The Eden Valley is dotted with Castles and the ruins at Brough are well worth a visit.  It’s also a great spot for a picnic or find a tea-room or pub lunch in this pretty market town.

Depart Brough and take the A685 via Kirkby Stephen and Soulby to Orton.  From Orton take B6260, direction Appleby, and at the top of the hill turn left on the road to Crosby Ravensworth.  From here continue over the high road to Shap and the A6.

At over 300m, nearly 1000 feet above sea level, it’s hardly surprising that the village of Shap enjoys such fine views across the fells.

From Shap, follow the A6 northbound towards Penrith. 

Just south of Penrith lies Lowther Park and the ruins of  Lowther castle.  This spectacular Gothic ruin is surrounded by 130 acres of gardens which are an explosion of colour whatever time of year you visit.

Whilst at Lowther Castle, make sure you visit the huge adventure playground named “The Lost Castle”. It's a superb place to keep the kids entertained for hours and well worth a visit.

From Lowther Castle there is a just a short drive back to base a Penrith in time for dinner. There is no shortage of eating places to tempt you.