Eden Valley and the North Pennines

Unspoilt rolling green hills, picture perfect sandstone villages, stunning lakes and towering mountains: the Eden Valley and North Pennines is an impossibly beautiful corner of England. But don’t just take our word for it. The North Pennines has been designated both an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and a UNESCO Global Geopark, meaning the geology of this extra special area is of international significance.

Whether you want calmness and serenity or an action-packed adventure, these epic landscapes offer the perfect place to reinvigorate. Absorb the tranquil atmosphere of Ullswater on board a traditional 'steam' boat, surrounded by the dramatic silhouette of Lakeland fells. Uncover the mysteries of sweeping valleys, criss crossed by drystone walls. Pedal along cycle routes including the Sea to Sea (C2C) and the Walney to Wear and Whitby (W2W).

The towns and villages of this peaceful place exude local charm. There are historic market towns like Appleby, Penrith and Alston (which shares the title of the highest market town in England); and friendly villages like Askham, Melmerby and Pooley Bridge. Many sit alongside prehistoric stone circles, mediaeval castles and ancient relics just waiting to be explored.

This is a vibrant hub for food & drink, with towns across the area hosting farmer’s markets on a regular basis. The area is also a home to Michelin starred restaurants, gastropubs, and the World’s Original Marmalade Awards.

© The Queen’s Head, Askham

Love arts & culture? Don’t miss the Winter Droving, held to celebrate rural life every October. See the 'Eden Benchmarks' - ten contemporary stone sculptures along the River Eden - or walk the Poetry Path in Kirkby Stephen.

The rich variety of stately homes, fairytale castles and grand houses with extensive gardens are testament to the area’s history as an aristocratic neighbourhood. Some even offer accommodation, so you can immerse yourself in this incredible heritage and sleep in a castle yourself.

Families will find plenty to enjoy here, from steamboats and ruined castles with adventure playgrounds to indoor cinema experiences and art workshops. Dogs are welcome at a large number of attractions, so there’s no need to leave anyone behind.

Get outdoors with a mountain climb - here, you can challenge yourself to Wainwrights like Hellvellyn and Hartsop Dodd, or the stunning ridges of High Cup Nick. There are also lower level walks, as well as cycling, pony trekking and watersports.

In the North Pennines, there’s an abundance of nature and wildlife. Enjoy colourful wildflowers, spot beautiful dragonflies and butterflies, keep an eye on the skies to see soaring birds of prey, and listen for the distinctive calls of lapwing, curlew and skylark.

The 20-mile Ullswater Way winds its way around the lake via tumbling waterfalls like the hypnotic Aira Force; peaceful countryside; and charming villages. Feel the benefits to your health and wellbeing. Be sure to stop at Glencoyne Bay: it was here that Wordsworth was inspired to write his famous poem, I Wandered Lonely As A Cloud.