Just few miles away is the ancient town of Appleby in Westmorland straddling the River Eden. It is one of the most pleasant towns in  Cumbria with its castle. The town is distinguished by its much admired Boroughgate, a charming street in the centre of the west side of the town. It is unusually wide and lined with mature trees in front of attractive old houses. During July it becomes busy with the annual Horse Fair. 

 

The Eden Valley offers a rural retreat for walkers and cyclists, photographers and artists plus superb visitor attractions such as Rheged visitors centre on the edge of The Lake District. Also close by is the Bird of Prey Centre, Eden Ostrich Farm, The Village Bakery at Melmerby, Wetheriggs Pottery and The Alpaca Centre. The spectacular Lake District is within easy reach. A Steamboat trip on Ullswater makes a great day out. 

 

About 40 minutes to the north is Carlisle, a unique city of heritage, culture and shopping from where you can discover the world heritage site of Hadrian's Wall and the Carlisle to Settle Railway.