A guide to Cumbria's Eden Valley

The Eden Valley is one of Cumbria's best-kept secrets and lies between the Pennines to the east and the Lake District fells to the west. Eden is well named – a mixture of lush countryside, picturesque hamlets, sandstone farms, traditional towns and clusters of woodland makes this one of the most unspoiled areas of the country. 

The River Eden flows through the Eden Valley, Cumbria's longest waterway and a reserve for creatures such as salmon and otters. In fact, along with Ullswater, the whole river and its tributaries are a designated Special Area of Conservation, highlighting its importance as a habitat.

This area of Cumbria is the place to go if you want to experience tranquil surroundings, lush countryside, and quaint attractions. Aside from the pretty villages and towns (and even the city of Carlisle), there are plenty of attractions such as Hadrian’s Wall and the Settle to Carlisle Railway – there is lots to see and do during a getaway to the Eden Valley.

Jump to:

• Where is the Eden Valley?
• Eden Valley walks
• Towns and villages
• Things to do in the Eden Valley
• Eating and drinking
• Map of the Eden Valley

Where is the Eden Valley?

The spectacular Eden Valley flows across the north-east of Cumbria, a county in the north-west of England. It follows the River Eden along its 81-mile course from Black Fell Moss in Mallerstang (in the south-east of the Lake District) all the way to the Solway Firth on the border of England and Scotland, where the winding river joins the tidal flats of this coastal area. The valley sits between the Lake District and the Pennines, providing it with plenty of impressive scenery and interesting attractions.

Eden Valley walks

Whether you fancy a gentle stroll along the river or a challenging hike through tricky terrain, the varied landscape of the Eden Valley means you'll have plenty of walking routes to choose from.

Appleby riverside walk

This low-level circular walk is reasonably long at 7 miles, but not too tricky underfoot. It starts along the river at Appleby Station on the Settle to Carlisle line and passes through fields with views of idyllic rolling hills. Look out for wildflowers, birds, insects and small mammals in mini nature reserves, and pass by historical features such as churches, castles, and Rutter Mill and waterfall. Markers along the route have a kingfisher motif with various bronze panels to rub during the walk.  

Mallerstang

The beautiful dale of Mallerstang includes the source of the River Eden. Part of the Yorkshire Dales, it is dominated by the rough cut of Mallerstang Edge to one side and Wild Boar Fell to the other. Though less than 6 miles long, this Mallerstang route is still likely to take several hours due to its high-level terrain, so it is one for experienced hikers. But this is a walk of spectacular scenery and well worth your efforts. Starting at the fabulously named Boggle Green, the route takes in part of Lady Anne Clifford’s Way, plus art sculptures, birdlife, deep ravines, waterfalls and castle ruins.

Hadrian’s Wall

The famous wall passes through part of the Eden Valley, and a long-distance walk follows it from the Solway all the way to Newcastle. You don’t have to hike the whole length, but sections of the walk offer an attractive stroll with plenty of historical interest. Try the Birdoswald Fort trail, which follows close by the wall for much of its route, and otherwise takes in pleasant river scenery. Starting at the fort, this short, circular route is less than 3 miles long and is a great family-friendly option (though be aware a section is on a minor road).

Cross Fell

Cross Fell includes the highest point in the Pennines, so this is definitely one if you’ve got plenty of experience and are ready for a challenge! The summit is 893 metres, which can be a hard slog but means you get incredible views of northern England and southern Scotland from the east to west coast! Though there are multiple routes up Cross Fell, one of the most obvious is along the Pennine Way, which is helpfully signposted.

Towns and villages of the Eden Valley

You’ll find historic churches, pretty parks and regular weekly markets amongst the towns and villages of Cumbria’s Eden Valley. It’s also well worth visiting Carlisle, the only city in Cumbria, during a getaway to this beautiful county. 

Appleby-in-Westmorland

Appleby-in-Westmorland – often referred to as just 'Appleby' – is perhaps best known for its horse fair, which attracts thousands of visitors every June. But this attractive market town has lots of historical interests and charm, too. The River Eden flows by the town's main street, Boroughgate, with the 12th-century Appleby Castle at one end and St Lawrence’s Church at the other. Much of the town’s historic interest is thanks to Lady Anne Clifford, a one-time owner of the castle, and a woman who was devoted to restoring local buildings and helping the needy.

Carlisle

As Cumbria’s only city, Carlisle holds a special place in the county. But it’s not like other cities – there are no towering buildings here, and nothing rises higher than the impressive Carlisle Cathedral. The red sandstone buildings that are often found in this region can be seen throughout the city, adding a pretty aspect to the area. Explore the history of the region at Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery, enjoy a shopping trip in the centre, or wander through one of the grassy parks. 

Penrith

The red sandstone town of Penrith was once the capital of Cumbria. Though now replaced by Carlisle, it remains a fascinating town with plenty of attractions that make it a worthwhile destination. Easily accessible by road and rail, it held military importance in ancient Britain and beyond and boasts many beautiful buildings including a Grade I-listed church and the remains of a 14^th-century castle. A market takes place each Tuesday in Penrith’s Great Dockray car park with a range of stalls from independent, local traders. 

Kirkby Stephen

The traditional market town of Kirkby Stephen sits amongst the rolling countryside that so defines the Eden Valley. Sitting in the sweet spot where the Yorkshire Dales National Park stretches into Cumbria, it is a remote yet vibrant village with plenty of character, excellent surroundings and plenty to do. Take a wander around the cobbled streets to find independent shops, historic buildings and hidden corners to uncover.

Brampton

Brampton is just a short distance from Carlisle, so enjoy the convenience of the city with the peaceful atmosphere of a small town. Many of the town’s buildings use local Cumbrian sandstone and standing out in the centre is the unusual octagonal Moot Hall, which now houses the Tourist Information. In the surrounding area, you’ll find plenty of historic interest – including Hadrian’s Wall – and activities for the kids at locations such as Talkin Tarn Country Park and New Mills Trout Farm.

Things to do in the Eden Valley

From fishing on the River Eden to finding out how the Romans built Hadrian's Wall, there's much to see and do on a visit to the Eden Valley. You'll find historic castles, a lovely country park and the ruins of a 12th-century abbey to explore in this beautiful and historic part of Cumbria.

Birdoswald Roman Fort

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hadrian's Wall is one of the most impressive monuments to have survived the Roman Empire. Stretching through a wild landscape, you can walk 84 miles from coast to coast, passing Roman settlements and forts. Head to Birdoswald Roman Fort to admire the longest remaining stretch of the wall. There’s a visitor centre where you can learn more about how the Romans built Hadrian’s Wall with its turrets and milecastles, before stopping off at the on-site café and shop.

Fishing on the River Eden

The River Eden is the longest river in Cumbria and weaves its way northwards through some of the most beautiful scenery in the county. The river is excellent for fishing and is one of the finest salmon and sea trout rivers in north-east Cumbria. It is also well known for its otters, white-clawed crayfish, bullhead and lamprey. There are 15 named pools that you can fish at along the River Eden including The Viaduct, The Falls and Long Meg. 

Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle

Long Meg and Her Daughters is one of the area’s most famous stone circles and even inspired Wordsworth to write the poem The Monument Commonly Called Long Meg. According to legend, Meg was a witch and, along with her daughters, was turned to stone as a punishment for dancing on the Sabbath! The circle is made up of 27 standing stones and is located near Little Salkeld.

See if you can count how many stones remain standing. But beware – if you count the same number twice in a row, legend says that you’ll bring the women back to life!

Lacy’s Caves

Above the River Eden and to the north of Little Salkeld you’ll find Lacy’s Caves. In the 18th century, Colonel Lacy of Salkeld Hall carved these five caves into the sandstone cliffs above the river. It is thought that the Colonel, who once attempted to blow up Long Meg Stone Circle, used the caves for entertaining guests. Nowadays, it’s a quirky feature – if not a little spooky – that’s well worth a visit as part of a pleasant walk along the river. Combine it with a trip to the Little Salkeld Watermill in the small village of the same name.

Settle to Carlisle Railway

Every year, thousands of visitors enjoy a ride on Britain’s most scenic railway trip, on the Settle to Carlisle Railway Line. The full journey takes around two hours and travels across some of the wildest and most beautiful landscapes in England. You can hop on board at Appleby and Lazenby in the Eden Valley for a trip to Settle that takes in the Mallerstang Valley and Dent Station (the highest mainland railway station in England), before crossing the famous 24-arch Ribblehead Viaduct in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Time it right, and you might even enjoy the route on an old-fashioned steam train!

Eden Valley castles

Thanks to its position close to the border of England and Scotland, the Eden Valley is jam-packed full of castles. You can wander around sprawling ruins that include well-preserved castle keeps and original turrets with information boards to help you learn more about their fascinating histories. Explore dog-friendly grounds with four-legged friends in tow then sit down to a picnic for a wonderful family day out at one of these Cumbrian castles. 

Shap Abbey

The English Heritage attraction of Shap Abbey is a 12^th-century building that now lies mostly in ruins. However, a tall 15^th-century tower remains and panels around the venue tell the history of the building and monastic life there. It’s a little off the beaten track to get to with access down a fairly steep and narrow road but the views are wonderful and, as it’s a lesser-known Eden Valley attraction, you’ll often be able to have the whole place to yourself. 

Talkin Tarn Country Park

Let off some steam at Talkin Tarn, a country park with ancient woodland, easy footpaths, water activities, and tearooms. Ideal for all the family, you can take a walk around the glacial tarn and feed the ducks, or get closer to the water with the help of Talkin Adventures, who offer boat hire as well as activities such as archery, paddle boarding and kayaking.

Walby Farm Park

Meet the animals, hide from the rain in the indoor soft play, or run about outside on one of the outdoor activities. Walby Farm Park offers a jam-packed day out across 30 acres of farmland. The animal activities are the highlights: children can watch a ferret show, groom ponies and meet animals such as alpacas, cows, sheep, pigs and ducks. Away from the animals, there’s plenty more to do, including a JCB-themed sand area, electric mini quads, a barrel train, goat racing and a tractor ride.

Eating and drinking in the Eden Valley 

Like many parts of Cumbria, Eden has its own specialities when it comes to food with pies, toffee and artisan bread all feature highly on the region’s menus. You’ll find village bakeries, charming cafés and country pubs where you can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat.  

Head to The Old Village Bakery in Melmerby for artisan bread, while for classic fish and chips, The Angel Lane Chippie in Penrith is a firm favourite with locals and is found on one of the oldest streets in the town. Cranstons Food Hall in Penrith has a café upstairs looking out over the Eden landscape. The menu is distinctly Cumbrian, and the food hall is a foodie’s delight with local meats, cheeses and drinks. The pork pies come highly recommended!

The George and Dragon in Clifton is a beautifully preserved country inn that serves seasonal food using fresh produce that's either grown on their estate, foraged from the surrounding fells or sourced from local suppliers. 

Map of the Eden Valley

Discover the Eden Valley's best walks, towns and things to do with this handy map: 

Holiday cottages in the Eden Valley

With its pretty villages, rolling river and unspoiled landscapes, the Eden Valley is a hidden gem of northern England. Take advantage of its tranquillity at one of our perfect Eden Valley holiday cottages or browse our full range of Lake District cottages to plan your perfect Cumbrian getaway.