Links
Here are some useful links to help you plan your visit. Keep on checking back; the list is a work in progress and the food links in particular just keep on growing – no wonder we have to walk so much…
If you have any suggestions as to links we should post, please contact us.
Attractions and places to visit
Kendal Museum: This museum’s collections include local archaeology, history, geology and natural history from around the globe. It also hosts exhibitions, displays and offers a range of activities.
Kirkby Stephen: Website showing what’s on in the local area, as well as providing useful phone numbers.
Yorkshire Dales National Park: News, maps and other information on the national park.
Lake District National Park: News, maps and other information on the national park.
Settle-Carlisle Railway: Tells you everything you need to know about this renowned scenic route, including ticket prices and train times.
Museum of Lakeland Life and Industry: Takes you back through time to explore the story of the Lake District and its inhabitants.
Bowes Museum: The Bowes Museum houses the greatest collection of fine and decorative arts in the North of England. Great fun.
Hill Top: A visit to Beatrix Potter’s former home and garden is both fascinating and moving.
Wensleydale Creamery: Learn more about this famous cheese and try it for yourself.
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway: Travel by steam from Ravenglass to Dalegarth. The trains were slightly smaller than we expected, but we still fitted in… Just.
Outdoor and activity
Walking Books.com: Make the most of your time at Waitby School and don’t waste valuable holiday time – buy your guides online and plan your walks before you arrive with Walkingbooks.com. For inspiration, check out the Yorkshire or Northwest walking guides, as well as the company’s in-house written guides, including great books for children.
Paragliding: No, we haven’t done this. Yet.
Golf: This course is in nearby Ravenstonedale.
Angling: Angling, tuition, smokehouse and tea rooms – even if you aren’t an avid angler, it is worth visiting the Bessy Beck Trout Fishery.
Go Ape at Whinlatter: A fun day out, despite one of us discovering a previously unknown fear of heights and another doing his back in by showing off. Kids loved it.
Food and drink
Appleby Creamery: Our absolute favourite cheese is the Eden Smokie – amazing. Try it!
Eden Valley Produce: Grocer's, farm shop and health food shop in Kirkby Stephen; has a great selection (link goes to Facebook page).
Orton Farmers’ Market: Buy your local produce direct.
Cranstons Butcher and Maker: Superb selection of locally sourced produce and an exceptional fish counter.
The Bridge, Temple Sowerby. Stylish venue, well thought out menu.
Brough Castle Farm Ice Cream Parlour and Tea Rooms: Superb ice cream made from the cows on the farm (link goes to Facebook page).
Lakeland Grazing: Will deliver food, picnics and private dining to your door.
Berry, Grape and Grain: Deli and Café in Kirkby Stephen, with an amazing wine selection (link goes to Facebook page).
Shopping and miscellaneous
Linen person: Supplies our linen and towels.
Haughey Antiques: Fine antiques and works of art.
The Wainwright Society: Keeping the fellwalking traditions promoted by Wainwright alive.
Church Gallery: Gift shop in Kirkby Stephen. Has the best selection of naughty birthday cards and beautifully curated gifts. There's a coffee shop too.
Mad about Mountains: Outdoor shop in Kirkby Stephen, ideal for walking gear and more. Perfect for when you've forgotten to pack something essential (we speak from experience).