The Eden Valley
One of the most magnificent views in England is that from Hartside, on the Alston to Penrith road, the A686. Standing on the rough moorland of the high Pennine escarpment, the traveller sees to the south-west the craggy mountains of the Lake District. Down below, between the Pennines and the Lake District, lies the Eden Valley, its patchwork of fields and hedges, its fertile farmland and green woodlands contrasting with the bleak fells and crags that enclose it. This friendly and tranquil countryside invites acquaintance, and the visitor who explores it will find a land of gentle hills and streams, with unspoilt villages and small market towns without the trappings of large-scale tourism.For thousands of years, man has inhabited this fertile landscape leaving behind him several great henges and the stone circle of Long Meg and her Daughters. Romans, Celts, Anglians and Norsemen have all made their homes here in the past. Great castles bear witness to earlier conflicts in this countryside, so much desired by both English and Scots and the gateway to invasion from the north.
Among the names for ever associated with this part of England are King Edward I, Robert Bruce, Richard Duke of Gloucester (later King Richard III), Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie; and in less troubled times, Lady Anne Clifford, William Wordsworth and the 'Yellow' Earl of Lonsdale. Visitors interested in history and the stirring deeds of the past will find the Valley full of fascination.
The unspoiled countryside is the prime attraction for many other visitors. The Eden Valley is noted for fine woodlands and it is possible to stroll among the beautiful trees of Wetheral Woods, now owned by the National Trust, or to visit Gelt Woods, which are managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, so numerous are the species to be seen there. Energetic - and properly equipped - walkers can follow one of the most spectacular parts of the Pennine Way, from Dufton round High Cup Nick. The less ambitious will prefer an easier walk, to admire the rushing water in the gorge in Stenkrith Park, Kirkby Stephen, or follow the Eden's wide, lazy meanders on lower ground, or wander round one of the beautiful gardens of the area. Bird watchers will enjoy a visit to the Solway Marshes where the Eden enters the sea, while everyone will be fascinated by the rare breeds seen in the grounds of Appleby Castle.
For those who want entertainment there are leisure parks and recreational facilities, as well as golf, pony-trekking, climbing and watersports, with a number of outdoor heated swimming pools and, of course, picnicking and exploring to enjoy. The Eden is a well-known salmon river, and fishermen will also be able to pursue trout and grayling. There are unusual attractions, too, such as a museum of steam-engines that really work, an invitation to trace your family tree, and a variety of craft shops. Children, too, will find plenty to amuse them. The unique Settle to Carlisle Railway has been rescued from closure and trains now stop at the smaller stations of the Eden Valley, enabling visitors to take trips on this famous scenic line.
Tranquillity is perhaps the Valley's greatest charm, however. Although within easy reach of the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, it still escapes the pressures of commercial tourism. There are comfortable or, if you wish, luxurious hotels, self-catering cottages, a few well-appointed caravan sites, and a number of traditional inns. This farming and fishing area is renowned for its food, with Cumberland sausage, Cumberland ham, and Cumberland rum butter being famous names, while Solway shrimps and smoked salmon are local delicacies, and local master bakers provide exceptionally good bread and cakes.
Whether you come to the Eden Valley for a special interest holiday, for energetic activity, to use it as a base for touring, or to find peace and relaxation, you will discover the warm hospitality traditional in Cumbria.
