Voted one of the best places to live in the North West, the historic market town of Kirkby Lonsdale is nestled between two national parks; the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales.
Uniquely situated on the Cumbria–Lancashire-Yorkshire border on the doorstep of the Howgill Fells, Ingleton Fells and the Forest of Bowland, it’s also a hidden gem for day trippers and overnight visitors.
From quality restaurants and independent shops, to healthy outdoor activities and quirky festivals, there is always more to explore in Kirkby Lonsdale.
The Tourist Information and Gift Shop is open daily; it’s an ideal base to find out some top tips from local experts on things to see and do in and around the town.
Located in a former bank, it includes a brief interactive film experience – called ‘The Vault’ – which is a great way to get a snapshot of Kirkby Lonsdale’s rich culture and heritage.
Film snippets feature historical characters like J.M. Barry, who was inspired by the area’s beauty when he wrote the classic Peter Pan.
This historic town certainly has many stories to tell and was mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086.
It’s famed for the 650-year-old Devil’s Bridge over the River Lune and famously captured the imagination of both painter JMW Turner and English writer John Ruskin.
Historic guided walks around Kirby Lonsdale take place on the first and third Saturday of every month; anyone searching for a slice of local cultural history can book tickets at the Tourist Information and Gift Shop.
The town also has a serious food scene, ranging from award-winning cafes and tasty street food to traditional pubs and higher-end restaurants that have earned national and international accolades.
The Royal Barn, run by Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery Co. Ltd, is a community-spirited beer hall with 20 pumps of cask and keg craft ale, as well as a world beer bottle bar, regular music and entertainment evenings.
Meanwhile, Kirkby Lonsdale has a thriving, independent high street with an unexpected array of high-end fashion brands. The town’s range of giftware and collectables means it really comes into its own for anyone searching for an unusual or personalised present.
There is also a weekly Thursday Charter Market on Market Square offering everything from local produce to plants and jewellery, alongside a country market in Lunesdale Hall every Thursday too.
For more ideas and inspiration about things to see and do in Kirkby Lonsdale, visit: www.kirkbylonsdale.info
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