EXPLORE KIRKBY LONSDALE

The picturesque and historic market town of Kirkby Lonsdale on the banks of the River Lune is ideally located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and within easy reach of the Lake District. It’s centre is a mix of elegant 18th-century buildings and stone cottages with interesting little cobbled courtyards and alleyways and has a central market square which is overlooked by the rather grand Georgian building which is ‘The Royal Hotel’.

In the town is the lovely Norman church of ‘St Marys’dating back to the eleventh century which has views from the churchyard along the river Lune made famous by John Ruskin who wrote; ’I do not know in all my country,still less in France or Italy, a place more naturally devine’’ and ‘Ruskins View’was also painted by Turner. There are walks along the River leading to the popular tourist spot of ‘Devils Bridge’  just outside the village.

Its shops are a pleasing mix of the traditional butchers and bakers along with antique and designer shops offering specialised goods such as jewellery, clothing and home décor. Mingled in with these are a good choice of places to eat ranging from little tea and coffee shops to excellent pubs and restaurants. Each Thursday a great little market is held on the square offering lots of local produce for sale along with other interesting stalls.

www.kirkbylonsdale.co.uk for further info.