With moors and mountains on either side, the Eden Valley which stretches from Appleby to the Solway Firth, is the perfect base to explore the north-west tip of England. There are award-winning museums (Tullie House in Carlisle, or the Bowes Museum at Barnard Castle), roman remains at Hadrian's Wall, historic houses, steam railways and a wealth of arts and crafts. The nearest lake is Ullswater, approximately 20 miles or 3/4 of an hour's drive away.
Appleby is a scenic town which offers a mixture of craft and traditional shops in which to browse and a good choice of cafes and hostelries for when you would like to take it a little easier! Apart from just soaking up the atmosphere, visitor attractions include the 12th century church, award-winning railway station on the scenic Settle-Carlisle line, historic almshouses, moot-hall, panoramic views over the river Eden and castle. Every June the town plays host to the Appleby Horse Fair - an institution which has been ongoing since the 16th Century. There are some award-winning real-ale pubs in the local area with roaring fires and hearty traditional food. Add to this an extensive list of amenities (squash, bowls, swimming pool, gym, golf, bike hire, county cricket, fishing, riding, tennis, go-karting, cycling and walking) and you can see why it is such a popular tourist destination.
Picturesque villages such as Dufton, Bolton and Maulds Meaburn are a short drive away. The historic market towns of Penrith and Kirkby Stephen are approximately 25 minutes away. For those keen on walking and cycling, the local lanes and hills provide a wealth of opportunities - for the really adventurous Helvellyn can be reached and climbed in a day! Or, if you fancy a spot of retail therapy, the ancient border-city of Carlisle is only 45 minutes away.