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Culture in South Lakes - Sedbergh and Kirkby Lonsdale

Discover Arts & Culture in Sedbergh and Kirkby Lonsdale

On the border of the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks lie the charming market towns of Sedbergh and Kirkby Lonsdale. Each with their own unique charm, these vibrant towns are also hubs for arts and culture – with so much to discover. From arts and crafts to historic architecture, join us as we discover culture in the South Lakes in these two fantastic locations.

Kirkby Lonsdale is accessible by road via the A65; or by bus with Stagecoach (the 567 bus serves the town).

Sedbergh is accessible by road via the A684 and A683; or by bus with Stagecoach (the 564 and 567A serve the town).

Sedbergh

Our journey begins in Sedbergh: England’s official book town, with a fantastic collection of new, second hand and collector’s bookshops. It’s also home to Farfield Mill: an arts, crafts and heritage gallery on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales.

Set inside a restored Victorian woollen mill, Farfield Mill is just a riverside walk or a short drive from the town centre. Entry is free, with several beautiful gallery spaces to explore; alongside artists’ studios, power looms, and handlooms – all set over four floors. See artists at work and discover a changing programme of exhibitions; visitors can also learn more about the building’s history and

heritage, and purchase a range of contemporary craft, art, and jewellery, all handcrafted and designed in the Mill and surrounding area.

Once you’ve finished exploring, head to the welcoming tearoom which serves light breakfasts, lunches, teas, coffees and cakes. Located next to the river, there’s an outdoor seating area with shelter offering beautiful views.

Open hours: Wednesday – Sunday 10:30am – 4pm

There is an on-site car park, as well as parking in Sedbergh which is a one-mile walk away.

Kirkby Lonsdale

Our next stop is the charming town of Kirkby Lonsdale. This historic market town can be found in the Lune Valley, overlooking the River Lune and popular with visitors for centuries. It provided inspiration for paintings by Turner and Constable, while Victorian art critic John Ruskin once declared that “I do not known in all my country, still less in France or Italy, a place more naturally divine”.

Today, Kirkby Lonsdale is a bustling market town filled with 17th and 18th century buildings, home to independent shops, fantastic places to eat and drink, and beautiful views at every turn.

Take a leisurely walk through town and stop to admire the impressive, Grade I listed St Mary’s Church. Featuring Norman architecture, including three columns in the nave – of which two are carved with unusual diamond motif patterns – it makes for a beautiful place to spend a moment.

There’s always something going on in South Lakeland: a packed year-round programme of events, theatre, exhibitions and festivals awaits. Visit our website to discover more.

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