9 Hidden Gems in Cumbria

As autumn gets into full swing, Cumbria is the perfect place to be – and there’s plenty to explore beyond the tourist spots in the Lake District. Get off the beaten path and discover these hidden Cumbrian gems.

Discover Cumbria’s only city
 

Dive into a rich culture and vibrant entertainment scene in Carlisle, Cumbria’s only city. With independent shops, fascinating museums, great eateries, and historic architecture, there’s plenty to explore.

Don’t miss the Carlisle City of Lights event, held in October every year. Historic landmarks are lit up, while a Son-et-Lumiere experience is projected onto Carlisle Cathedral and Carlisle Castle.
 

Walk along Hadrian’s Wall
 

Stretching across north Cumbria, Hadrian’s Wall is a must see. Walk in the footsteps of Roman soldiers and explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site: Birdoswald Roman Fort, Banks Turret and Lanercost Priory are all must sees along the way.
 

Visit The Yorkshire Dales
 

Did you know? Cumbria is home to its very own piece of the Yorkshire Dales! Running from Kirkby Lonsdale to Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria’s patch of the dales boasts beautiful mountain walks; great cycle paths; and charming market towns including Sedbergh, England’s official book town.
 

Stargaze beneath some of England’s darkest skies
 

Cumbria is home to some of the darkest skies in England – which means it’s the perfect place to stargaze. Marvel at the wonders of the night sky: Asby Common in the Eden Valley is a wild, open space from which to see the stars; or head to Arnside to combine stargazing with coastal views.
 

Explore hidden towns and villages

Get off the beaten track and discover Cumbria’s many independent family-run retailers, characterful pubs and scrumptious eateries. We’ve got atmospheric market towns like Brampton, Appleby-in-Westmorland and Kirkby Stephen; England’s official ‘Book Town’ of Sedbergh; and a vibrant arts and events scene in Kendal.
 

Spot the local wildlife
 

Experience the magic of Cumbria’s wildlife. On the coast, it’s time to search for seals at South Walney Nature Reserve; or head to one of our National Landscapes including Arnside & Silverdale, Solway Coast, and the North Pennines.
 

Outdoor Adventure
 

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Cumbria! Try rock climbing, caving, and even paragliding in the Eden Valley; or how about horse riding on a beach on Cumbria’s west coast? The family-friendly Talkin Tarn Country Park is great for water sports and archery; elsewhere, cyclists can enjoy routes like the Lakes and Dales loop, or the Morecambe Bay cycleway.
 

Experience the Cumbrian coast

Cumbria has over 120 miles of coastline to explore, from Morecambe Bay to Scotland. Enjoy family fun at the Beacon Museum and Lake District Coast Aquarium in Maryport; ride along the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway; and visit Wordsworth’s birthplace of Cockermouth.

Also on Cumbria’s coast, Muncaster Castle & Gardens is the place to be for Halloween fun, with a jam packed programme of spooky events.
 

Uncover Cultural gems
 

Uncover cultural gems across Cumbria, with castles, country houses, and even prehistoric stone circles. Soak up the heritage at Brougham Castle, visit Lowther Castle and Gardens with the family, and discover the country’s oldest private collection of Roman treasures at the Senhouse Roman Museum.