Eden Valley – a lesser known gem

This very beautiful part of Cumbria to the east of the Lake District is a broad valley with the River Eden flowing through it.

This 80 mile long water course is Cumbria’s premier river and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
It is a well known Salmon and Trout River and one may be lucky and see an otter.

The landscape of the Eden Valley is one of rolling countryside beneath the Pennines
interspersed with pretty red sandstone villages.

There are a selection of tearooms and craft shops in the area and good walks to be enjoyed including the popular Nunnery Walks, which follows a section of the River Eden.

The market towns of Penrith, Appleby-in-Westmorland, and Kirkby Stephen lie within the region and historic sites that can be visited include Shap Abbey and Brougham and Brough castles.

It is recommended as a relaxing and rewarding day out from Sycamore Cottage.

Some useful links:

Shap Abbey

www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/shap-abbey/

Brougham Castle

www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/brougham-castle/

Brough Castle

www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/brough-castle/