Here are 3 Reasons To Visit Appleby-in-Westmorland In 2024 which you need to know if you’re looking for the perfect place to surround yourself with stunning nature and great attractions.
Looking for a great town in Cumbria, England to visit? Appleby-in-Westmorland is that perfect place which I must share with you guys as Cumbria is the place to be if you love all things Appleby.
You’ve probably heard about Appleby-in-Westmorland’s famous Horse Fair that happens every June. While the fair is definitely a sight to see, this charming market town in the northwest of England has so much more to offer visitors all year round! That’s why you should put Appleby-in-Westmorland on your must-see list for 2024. In this article, you’ll discover three compelling reasons to visit this historic riverside town next year. From its picturesque setting to its vibrant culture and cuisine, Appleby-in-Westmorland is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. So read on to learn why you need to experience this charming destination for yourself in 2024!
Appleby-in-Westmorland: A Quaint Market Town in Cumbria
Rich History and Culture
This picturesque town in the Eden Valley has a history dating back over 1000 years. Walking through the narrow lanes and cobbled streets, you’ll find well-preserved stone buildings that showcase architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries. A must-see is the Church of St. Lawrence, an ancient place of worship with parts that date back to the 12th century.
A Thriving Local Market
Every June, Appleby holds its famous horse fair which attracts tens of thousands of visitors. But even outside of the fair, the town has a lively market three times a week selling everything from local produce to crafts. Wander between the stalls, sample the homemade goods, and grab some tasty street food.
Interesting Heritage
Appleby Castle, a largely 12th-century building, sits on the edge of town and is open for tours during the summer. The Church of St. Lawrence, in the town center, has parts dating back to the 12th century. And the Old Grammar School, founded in the 17th century, is now a museum depicting life in the local area.
With stunning scenery, an atmospheric market, and a glimpse into history, Appleby-in-Westmorland makes a charming getaway. Visit in 2024 and you’ll experience all the town has to offer without the usual bustle of the horse fair. The quieter pace will allow you to fully appreciate this quintessential Cumbrian town.
Reason #1 to Visit in 2024 - The Famous Appleby Horse Fair
A Historic Tradition
The Appleby Horse Fair has been held annually for over 300 years, making it one of the oldest horse fairs in Europe. Dating back to 1685, gypsies and travellers would gather in Appleby to trade horses and enjoy the festivities. Today, the fair attracts over 10,000 gypsies and travellers who come together to continue this historic tradition of horse trading and celebrate their culture.
Witness the Colourful Gypsy Caravans
One of the highlights of the fair is seeing the ornate gypsy caravans make their way to Appleby. Pulled by sturdy cobs, some caravans have been in families for generations. Once at the fair, the caravans create a sea of colour as families set up camp for the week-long event. Walking through the caravan sites, with their traditional style and decorative details, is like taking a step back in time.
Experience the Thrill of the Horse Fair
The main event of the fair is the horse trading. Watch skilled riders put horses through their paces to show off their strength, speed and temperament to potential buyers. Hear the lively bartering and exchange between traders and buyers looking to get the best deal. The culmination of the week is the horse fair itself, where hundreds of beautiful cobs and stallions prance and preen, all in hopes of finding a new owner. The sheer energy and passion for horses that fills the streets during the fair is a sight to behold.
A Cultural Event Like No Other
There is simply no other event quite like the Appleby Horse Fair. Steeped in history and culture, it offers a glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. The music, dancing, storytelling, and of course, the horses, all combine to create an unforgettable experience you will not find anywhere else. If you’re looking for an utterly unique destination to visit in 2024, look no further than the Appleby Horse Fair.
Reason #2 - Stunning Scenery and Outdoor Activities
The Lake District is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, from rugged fells to picturesque valleys. In 2024, the scenery will be just as stunning as ever.
Majestic Mountains The Lake District’s mountains, known as fells, dominate the landscape. Climb to the top of Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, to take in panoramic views of deep lakes, green valleys and distant snow-capped peaks. For an easier hike, try Catbells or Helvellyn with its scenic ridge walk.
Adventure Activities
If you’re looking for adventure, the Lake District has you covered. Go mountain biking on the fells, rock climbing up a craggy cliff face, or whitewater rafting down a rushing river. Glide through the treetops on a zip line or zoom down an alpine coaster. With so many thrilling activities, your trip to the Lake District in 2024 is sure to be an adventure you’ll never forget.
Between the scenic natural surroundings and abundance of outdoor activities, the Lake District’s stunning scenery and landscapes offer something for everyone to enjoy in 2024. From scaling towering fells to kayaking on glassy lakes, a visit to this English countryside gem will fill you with memories to last a lifetime.
Placid Lakes
What would the Lake District be without its lakes? In 2024, you can still go boating on Ullswater, Derwentwater and Windermere, the largest lake. Rent a kayak or rowboat and spend a peaceful afternoon on the water, or take a scenic cruise to see the lakeside villages and hills from the water.
Reason #3 - Historic Sites
Appleby-in-Westmorland is steeped in history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Stone Age. A walk through the town will uncover remnants of its storied past, transporting you back in time.
Ancient Ruins and Castles
The ruins of Brough Castle sit on a hill overlooking the River Eden. Originally built in the early 1100s, the castle was an important stronghold for centuries. Though mostly in crumbled stone walls now, you can still explore the keep, gatehouse, and bailey. It’s free to wander the grounds and picture what life was like in medieval times.
Down in the town proper, St. Lawrence’s Church has parts that date to the 12th century. The churchyard contains some interesting historic gravestones, including a Viking hogback stone. For a small fee, you can tour inside the church and climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Local Traditions
Appleby has some delightful local events to experience the town’s cultural heritage. The Appleby Horse Fair has been held for over 300 years, where Romany travelers and horse traders gather to buy, sell and swap their prized Gypsy Vanner horses. Even if you don’t attend the actual fair, the town will be bustling with activity and full of colorful caravans.
On Boxing Day, the town hosts the Pace Egg Play, a traditional folk play with origins from the Middle Ages. Performers go door to door acting out the play, which tells the story of Saint George and the Seven Champions of Christendom. It’s a fun, whimsical way to participate in an old English custom.
With ancient history around every corner and cultural events that have stood the test of time, Appleby-in-Westmorland offers a glimpse into traditional life that has all but disappeared in much of the world. A visit here is like stepping into a living museum, where the past is not relegated to dusty exhibits behind glass but is woven into the very fabric of the town. Come discover the magic of history brought to life once again.
Planning Your 2024 Trip to Appleby-in-Westmorland
Experience the Appleby Horse Fair
In 2024, you absolutely must experience the Appleby Horse Fair, the largest horse fair in Europe. Every June, over 10,000 gypsies and travellers descend upon the town for a frenetic week of horse trading, socializing, and partying. Even if you’re not in the market for a horse, the fair is a sensory overload you’ll never forget, with colorful gypsy caravans, impromptu music and dancing, and the thunder of hooves as horses are paraded through the streets.
Explore the Stunning Surrounding Countryside
While the hustle and bustle of the fair is exciting, the peaceful countryside surrounding Appleby is worth exploring too. The village is nestled in the Eden Valley, a picturesque area of Cumbria in the North West of England. Walk or bike the many trails around Appleby, like the Pennine Journey which follows an old Roman road. Or visit some of England’s finest waterfalls, like Cautley Spout, only a 30-minute drive away. The Lake District National Park is also just a short journey west of Appleby if you fancy bigger mountains and more lakes.
Experience a Traditional English Village
When the fair packs up and the travellers move on, Appleby settles back into its usual quiet village life. But there’s still plenty to experience in this quintessential English village. Stroll across the historic Appleby Bridge, shop at the weekly farmer’s market, or have a pint of real ale at one of the cozy local pubs like the White Horse or the Royal Oak. You can also tour Appleby Castle, a largely intact Norman castle ruin that sits right in the center of town. For a taste of village life in northern England, Appleby in 2024 is hard to beat.
Whether you go for the vibrant horse fair, the picturesque countryside, or a glimpse of traditional village life, a trip to Appleby-in-Westmorland in 2024 is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Start planning your visit today!
Conclusion
You have to admit, Appleby-in-Westmorland seems like a charming little town with a lot to offer visitors of all kinds in 2024. Between the exciting events, beautiful scenery, and rich history, it’s definitely worth putting on your travel bucket list for next year. And who knows – you may just discover your new favorite countryside getaway. At the very least, Appleby promises a relaxing and rejuvenating break from the bustle of everyday life. So start making plans with your friends or family. Pack your bags. And get ready for an unforgettable trip to this lovely corner of England. You won’t regret experiencing Appleby’s unique blend of tradition, nature, and hospitality.
