Appleby-in-Westmorland is located in a bend of the River Eden and is surrounded by the North Pennines, which are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the Lake District Fells, which can be seen in the distance to the west. It is one of the most beautiful towns in northern England, having been the county seat of Westmorland and located in the beautiful Eden Valley. Appleby is conveniently located between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, so visitors can take advantage of the varied landscapes of two National Parks, as well as numerous opportunities for hiking, bicycling, and relaxing at the town’s excellent recreation centre. Appleby is home to many excellent restaurants, cafes, and delicatessens that feature regional fare and handcrafted goods made by locals. In the centre of town, between the well-preserved Norman Castle and the fine mediaeval Church of St. Lawrence, is the picturesque street of Boroughgate, with some interesting old buildings. The Settle-Carlisle Railway, which passes through Appleby, is widely considered to be one of the most scenic train rides in all of Britain. Many vintage steam trains still make the journey along this route, which includes the breathtaking Ribblehead Viaduct. The beautiful Lake District is just a short drive away, and so is the charming Ullswater.
