Kirkby Lonsdale Travel Guide

Explore Kirkby Lonsdale with our comprehensive travel guide. Includes information on top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Kirkby Lonsdale

Kirkby Lonsdale is a picturesque town located in Cumbria, North West England. The town is situated near the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. With its charming streets, historic architecture, and beautiful scenery, Kirkby Lonsdale is a must-visit destination for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Kirkby Lonsdale

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Ruskin’s View: A scenic viewpoint that overlooks the River Lune and the beautiful countryside of the Lune Valley. This view was famously admired by John Ruskin, a 19th-century art critic, who described it as “one of the loveliest views in England”.
  • The Devil’s Bridge: A historic stone bridge that is believed to have been built during the 12th century. According to legend, the bridge was built by the devil himself in exchange for the soul of the first creature to cross it.
  • St. Mary’s Church: A beautiful 13th-century parish church known for its impressive architecture and stained glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Kirkby Lonsdale: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Lune Valley: A scenic valley that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It is a popular destination for walking, cycling, and picnicking.
  • Devil’s Bridge Trail: A popular hiking trail that takes you through some of the most scenic areas of Kirkby Lonsdale. The trail starts at the Devil’s Bridge and takes you up to the summit of Casterton Fell.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kirkby Lonsdale

  • The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail: A scenic trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
  • The Howgill Fells: A narrow range of hills that offer a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Kirkby Lonsdale: Activities and Tours

  • Walking tours: Kirkby Lonsdale offers a number of guided walking tours that take you through the town’s historic streets and landmarks.
  • Food and drink tours: Discover the town’s fantastic food and drink scene by taking a guided tour of local pubs and restaurants.
  • Cycling tours: Enjoy the stunning countryside around Kirkby Lonsdale by taking a guided cycling tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kirkby Lonsdale

Day Activities
1 Explore the town’s historic landmarks and architecture
2 Hike the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
3 Take a food and drink tour of the town
4 Visit the Ruskin’s View and Devil’s Bridge
5 Cycle the Howgill Fells
6 Take a relaxing day trip to nearby Lake District National Park
7 Take a walk along the River Lune and enjoy the town’s scenery

Food and Drink Scene of Kirkby Lonsdale

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cumberland sausage: A local specialty that is made from pork and a variety of herbs and spices.
  • Sticky toffee pudding: A classic British dessert that originated in the Lake District.

Local Beverages

  • Kendal Mint Cake: A sweet, mint-flavored confectionery that is popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Local microbrews: There are a number of local microbreweries in Kirkby Lonsdale that produce a variety of delicious beers.

Where to Stay in Kirkby Lonsdale: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Royal Hotel: A historic hotel located in the center of town with luxurious accommodations and fantastic amenities.
  • The Sun Inn: A charming and cozy guesthouse that is perfect for budget travelers.
  • Platos Guesthouse: A stylish and modern guesthouse with comfortable accommodations and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

What to Buy in Kirkby Lonsdale: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local cheeses: The area around Kirkby Lonsdale is known for its delicious cheeses, including the famous Lancashire cheese.
  • Handmade local crafts: The town has a number of local craft shops that sell handmade pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Kirkby Lonsdale

The people of Kirkby Lonsdale are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. The town has a rich history and a strong sense of community, which is reflected in its many festivals and events throughout the year. Visitors to Kirkby Lonsdale are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, and to immerse themselves in the town’s unique culture and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Kirkby Lonsdale

The best time to visit Kirkby Lonsdale is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the countryside is at its most beautiful. However, the town is an ideal destination year-round, and visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions no matter what time of year they visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kirkby Lonsdale

Do:

  • Take time to explore the town’s historic landmarks and architecture.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Ignore safety guidelines when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.
  • Disrespect local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kirkby Lonsdale

Kirkby Lonsdale is a safe and welcoming town, but visitors should take common sense precautions to ensure their safety. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables secure, and follow safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Kirkby Lonsdale

Kirkby Lonsdale has a number of medical facilities, including a hospital and several clinics. Visitors should ensure that they have adequate health insurance and take any necessary precautions to ensure their health and well-being.

Getting to Kirkby Lonsdale: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kirkby Lonsdale

  • Manchester Airport: Approximately 75 miles from Kirkby Lonsdale.
  • Liverpool John Lennon Airport: Approximately 75 miles from Kirkby Lonsdale.

Bus Stations Near Kirkby Lonsdale

  • Kirkby Lonsdale Bus Station: Located in the town center, this bus station is well-served by local and regional bus routes.
  • Kendal Bus Station: Approximately 15 miles from Kirkby Lonsdale, this bus station offers connections to a variety of destinations throughout Cumbria and the North West.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors who wish to explore the surrounding countryside may wish to rent a car. There are several car rental companies located in Kirkby Lonsdale.
  • Train: The nearest train station is Oxenholme, located approximately 13 miles from Kirkby Lonsdale. Trains run regularly from Oxenholme to a variety of destinations throughout the UK.

How to Get Around in Kirkby Lonsdale

Kirkby Lonsdale is a small town that is easy to explore on foot. However, visitors who wish to venture further afield can make use of the town’s public transportation options, which include buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Kirkby Lonsdale: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lake District National Park: Located approximately 30 miles from Kirkby Lonsdale, the Lake District is a stunning destination known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Yorkshire Dales National Park: Located approximately 20 miles from Kirkby Lonsdale, the Yorkshire Dales offer a variety of hiking trails and outdoor activities.
  • Lancaster: A historic city located approximately 20 miles from Kirkby Lonsdale, Lancaster is known for its impressive architecture and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Kirkby Lonsdale is a charming and picturesque town that is ideal for visitors who enjoy beautiful scenery, outdoor adventures, and historic landmarks. With its rich history and strong sense of community, Kirkby Lonsdale is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a unique and authentic British experience.

Market Cross, Kirkby Lonsdale (geograph - 131507) Market Cross, Kirkby Lonsdale (geograph - 131507)