It’s finally here, it’s June, it’s that time of year again, Appleby Horse Fair 2024 kicks off without much drama and boy it’s going to be an amazing one.
Horayyyy it’s finally upon us and boy I can’t wait to show face later today and do my rounds around this amazing gypsy horse fair in one of Cumbria’s most beautiful towns called Appleby-in-Westmorland which if my nan was alive she would have loved to see this special place us travellers like to call our second home.
In spite of of all the Police harassment and negative flack off the fake media, our traveller community will rise above it all and go on to enjoy this annual event that’s been part of gypsy life for hundreds of years. Don’t get me wrong, like all communities, nothing is perfect but we will do our utmost to build bridges, and strive to always be better but one thing we won’t do is ever give up Appleby horse fair over petty things that can be corrected by our own people.
Appleby is Where Our Heart Will Always Be So Don’t Let Anyone Take That From Us
Appleby Horse Fair 2024 is the place to be and you don’t have to be a traveller or part of the GRT community to pop down to Appleby to witness all the great things that happen over this one long weekend which may open your eyes and put your indifferences towards us. Our people are the most loyal and caring bunch and we will look after you if come to Appleby fair and enjoy it with us.
Don’t allow the fake media outlets such as the Daily Mail and some of the local rags such as Cumbria Crack try and divide us when all they plan to do is stir up nonsense in order to get eyeballs on their lies.
Appleby horse fair is here to stay so you might as well enjoy it with us.
All we ask if you do come is that you drive slow due to so many of our beautiful horses being on display or racing around the streets and always ask peoples permission before taking photos.
What’s On If I Venture Outside Of Appleby Horse Fair 2024?
Top Sights to See in the Area Around Appleby
Explore the Historic Town of Appleby
While you’re in Appleby for the fair, take some time to explore the picturesque town itself. Walk along the River Eden, with stunning views of the Pennines hills. Check out the historic Appleby Castle, a partly ruined Norman fortress, and St. Lawrence’s Church, a medieval parish church. The town also has charming local shops, cafes, and pubs to enjoy.
Visit Majestic Brougham Castle
Just 15 minutes from Appleby is the impressive Brougham Castle, a medieval castle ruin. Originally built in the 13th century, the castle has a long and storied history. You can still see parts of the keep, gatehouse, and outer defenses. The views of the surrounding countryside from the castle ramparts are breathtaking.
Take a Hike in the Lake District
If you want to enjoy the beautiful Cumbrian countryside, head to the Lake District National Park, just 30 minutes west of Appleby. There are scenic hiking trails for all skill levels. Walk up to the summit of Catbells for panoramic views of Derwentwater and the fells beyond. Or take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District.
Visit Historic Carlisle
Just under an hour north of Appleby is the historic city of Carlisle. Explore Carlisle Castle, a stone fortress that has stood for over 900 years. Check out Carlisle Cathedral, founded in the 12th century. Take a walk along Carlisle’s medieval city walls. The Tullie House Museum has artifacts spanning from Roman times to the present day. With so much history and culture, Carlisle makes a great day trip from Appleby.
There’s no shortage of amazing places to see around Appleby Horse Fair. Whether you want to immerse yourself in history, enjoy scenic natural surroundings, or just relax in picturesque country towns, Cumbria has something for everyone. Make the most of your trip by venturing outside the fairgrounds to explore this beautiful area of Northern England.
Exploring the Beauty of Cumbria
Cumbria is filled with picturesque landscapes, historic sites and charming towns waiting to be explored. When you’re not at the bustling horse fair, take time to discover the beauty surrounding Appleby.
The Lake District
Just a 30 minute drive west of Appleby lies the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring England’s largest lakes and highest mountains. Walk through grassy meadows, scale rocky peaks and sail across glassy waters. Popular spots include Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, and Scafell Pike, its highest mountain. The charming towns of Bowness-on-Windermere, Ambleside and Keswick offer cozy pubs, shops and cafes along with stunning views.
Hadrian’s Wall
Built in 122 AD, Hadrian’s Wall was once the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. The remains of the 73-mile wall pass just north of Appleby, including forts, towers and the Roman Army Museum. Walk or bike a section of the wall to experience the lives of Roman soldiers in this rugged landscape.
Penrith Castle
Just 15 minutes east of Appleby sits the historic market town of Penrith with a medieval castle dating back to 1399. Explore the castle ruins and climb the tower for panoramic views of the Eden Valley. Penrith also has an interesting museum, shops featuring locally made goods and a farmers market.
Other Towns
Nearby historic market towns like Kirkby Stephen, Barnard Castle and Richmond are also worth exploring. They offer charming streets lined with stone buildings, abbeys, castles and shops filled with antiques, books and local foods. Stop in a cozy pub for a pint of real ale and a hot meal after a day of exploring the beautiful countryside.
Cumbria’s natural beauty, history and culture surround the Appleby Horse Fair. Take time to discover the Lake District, Hadrian’s Wall and historic market towns for a well-rounded trip to this scenic pocket of Northern England. The stunning landscapes and wealth of attractions will leave you wanting to return again and again.
Other Events and Activities During Your Visit
Explore the Lake District
While attending the Appleby Horse Fair, take some time to explore the beautiful Lake District National Park. Only a 30 minute drive from Appleby, the Lakes offer stunning scenery, hiking trails, and quaint villages. Visit Lake Windermere, the largest lake, and take a boat tour to soak in the views. The charming town of Keswick, on the shores of Derwentwater lake, is a perfect spot for lunch or shopping for local crafts. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up to the summit of Catbells for panoramic vistas of the park.
Visit Historic Carlisle
Just under an hour north of Appleby, the historic city of Carlisle is worth a day trip. Walk around the medieval Carlisle Castle, which has stood for over 900 years. The Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery exhibits art, history, and culture of the border region. Carlisle Cathedral, founded in the 12th century, is an architectural wonder. And don’t miss a stroll down Castle Street, lined with shops, pubs, and cafes.
Take a Distillery Tour
If you enjoy spirits, Cumbria has several distilleries offering tours and tastings. The Lakes Distillery, in a restored Victorian farm, produces award-winning gin, vodka, and single malt whiskey. At the Carlisle Whisky Festival, held in May, you can sample their wares along with dozens of other distillers. The Borders Distillery, just over the Scottish border, is one of the world’s first organic distilleries. Their guided tours provide a glimpse into traditional copper pot stills and the whisky crafting process.
Outdoor Activities Galore
The Cumbrian countryside offers opportunities for walking, cycling, fishing, and more. Rent bikes to ride the country lanes or tackle mountain biking trails. Go fly fishing on the River Eden or Lake District tarns. Play a round at one of the scenic golf courses. Or try zip lining, quad biking, clay pigeon shooting and other country pursuits. There’s no shortage of activities for outdoor enthusiasts in this rural paradise.
A trip to the Appleby Horse Fair can easily be extended into a multi-day Cumbrian adventure. With stunning scenery, history, culture, food, and drink – you’ll want to return again and again.
Appleby Horse Fair FAQs: Answering Your Top Questions
When is the best time to visit?
The annual Appleby Horse Fair typically takes place during the first week of June. The fair officially opens on the first Thursday of June and runs through the following Wednesday. The weekend in the middle of the fair, especially Saturday, is usually the busiest time with the most activities going on. If big crowds aren’t your thing, consider going earlier in the week or on Wednesday. You’ll still get to experience the fair in full swing but with fewer people around.
What else is there to do nearby?
While the Appleby Horse Fair is certainly the main attraction, Cumbria has no shortage of other sights and activities to fill your trip. Only a 30 minute drive from Appleby is the picturesque Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and quaint villages. History buffs will enjoy visiting the ruins of Pendragon Castle, dating back to the 12th century, or Lanercost Priory, a former monastery.
Where should I stay?
Appleby itself has limited accommodation options, so many visitors stay in nearby towns like Penrith, Kirkby Stephen or Dufton. Penrith is the largest town, about a 15 minute drive from Appleby, with the most hotels, B&Bs and vacation rentals to choose from. It also has useful amenities like restaurants, shops and a train station. The smaller villages of Kirkby Stephen and Dufton, only 5-10 minutes from Appleby, offer a quieter setting if you prefer. Camping and caravanning are also very popular ways for fairgoers to stay close to the action. Many campsites open especially for the fair and fill up quickly, so book well in advance.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned fairgoer, the Appleby Horse Fair is a cultural event like no other. By planning your trip around the fair’s busiest times, exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside, and staying within a short drive of Appleby, you’ll make the most of this unique experience in Cumbria. Have a wonderful trip!
Final Thoughts…on my favourite time of the year
Appleby Horse Fair 2024 needs to be seen to be admired and loved and I remember coming here few years ago and I have never looked back since. Got welcomed straightaway given my Romany family and gypsy connections in Wales and boy it was the best few days of my life.
If you haven’t experienced Appleby horse fair, also known as Appleby New Fair for some reason then you haven’t lived yet because it’s definitely a bucket lister especially for the GRT community.
If you’re a non traveller, don’t let the bad press and the lies distract you from coming up Appleby as you’ll be welcome like you’re one of us.
Appleby is ours and it’s here to stay so help us keep it alive and kicking and have a great day today.
