Appleby-in-Westmorland and The Eden Valley

Appleby-in-Westmorland in the The Eden Valley is nestled in a hilly area between the Lake District mountains in the west and the Pennines in the east. Fear not, this isn’t a particularly hilly or testing ride. There are a couple of hills in the first half of the ride; however, they’re not too steep but do drag on a little. Pubs and cafés are scattered throughout the ride, and moreover, with a National Trust property and a castle to explore, this could easily become a full day out. By utilising National Cycle Network Route 68 for the first part, you’re guided onto some wonderfully quiet lanes along the way.

Route Description

From the starting point at Appleby-in-Westmorland station, head east along Station Road and then merge on to Roman Road. From here, the ride then picks up NCN 68, which forms the next 12 miles of the route. Following the signs for NCN 68 as it runs under the A66 the long but gentle climb towards Hilton starts. After arriving in Hilton, the route then turns northward toward the highest point of the ride, just south of Keisley.

Once over the hill, it’s a long and gentle cruise down in to the village of Dufton before another short climb up to ‘Knock’. If you fancy a stop in Dufton be sure to have a look at the rather unusual water fountain on the green. From Knock, you can then take time to enjoy the views of drystone walls and stone‑built cottages as you cruise through to Milburn.

From Milburn the ride now leaves NCN 68 as it turns westward and drops down to Newbiggin. Skirting the National Trust Property at Acorn Bank, the route runs through the centre of  Temple Sowerby before passing under the A66 again.

After the A66 it’s a fairly straightforward and relatively flat run to the village of Bolton. From Bolton it’s an almost straight route to Colby, after which there’s one short, sharp climb to the outskirts of Appleby-in-Westmorland before a gentle cruise back to the start point.

Route Summary

Start Point – Appleby-in-Westmorland station Railway Station CA16 6TT, O.S. Grid Ref -NY 68645 20681

Distance – 24.4 miles / 39 km

Elevation Gain – 1540ft / 469 metres

Places of Interest

• Appleby Castle – at the start / finish point.
• Acorn Bank National Trust – just off the route at the 15.1 mile point.
• Acorn Bank Watermill – just off the route at the 15.1 mile point.

Refreshment Stops

• Post Box Pantry, Dufton – on the route at the 7.7 mile point.
• Cafe at Acorn Bank National Trust – just off the route at the 15.1 mile point.
• The New Crown Inn, Bolton, just off the route at the 19.7 mile point.
• Bojangles, Appleby, on the route at the 24 mile point.

Local Bike Shops

• Helmwind Cycles, The Metal Shed, Station Yard, Apppleby  Tel: 017683 47979. 

Closest Railway Stations

• Appleby-in-Westmorland – at the start / end point.

 

Ride With GPS Link – https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54305784

GPX file direct download – Click Here

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