Located in the north of the county, the historic market town of Appleby is a unique cultural treasure offering an array of attractions, shops and venues to be explored.
This quirky town has so much to offer, especially for anyone who has an interest in arts and culture.
Appleby sits right in the heart of the Eden Valley and retains an old-world charm, evident in the main broad street of Boroughgate, which is described as one of one of the finest in England.
A day in Appleby should commence with a visit to the historic Moot Hall.
This impressive structure is both the town’s tourist information centre and home to a permanent exhibition room which houses a revolving display of arts, crafts and historical artefacts.
Both the centre and exhibition are open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm in summer or 2pm in winter.
Continue to explore the town’s arts scene at established venues such as the Colour Maker’s House.
Alternatively, discover up and coming artists at the Courtyard Gallery in Boroughgate or the Appleby Hub, a creative arts centre that offers workshops and courses alongside a craft and second-hand bookshop, as well as a café serving delicious homemade food and cakes.
This summer has also seen the launch of a new Craft Trail, a free town and riverside trail featuring over 30 fun crafty characters to be discovered. For those who prefer heritage attractions, visit the 11th century Appleby Castle.
Built by the Normans, the castle sits on a high vantage point overlooking a river crossing in the town. Pre-booking is essential.
Visitors can further discover the town’s rich history by exploring on foot highlights such as St Laurence's Church, St Anne's Hospital Almshouses and Bongate Mill.
Appleby is of the areas being highlighted by the Let’s Go Culture project, which has received £175,908 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is being supported by Westmorland & Furness Council.
Like many areas across Westmorland and Furness, Appleby’s attractions will be celebrating Heritage Open Days in September with a variety of free events planned.
For information including details of all events relating to Heritage Open Days visit www.visitappleby.com or visit www.visitlakedistrict.com/lets-go-culture for more inspiration on arts, culture and heritage.
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