Cumbria Travel Forum

In mid October 08, after a stay in the Highlands my wife and I are considering train to Carlisle and hiring a car. We are visiting the south of the Eden Valley - Appleby, Long Marton, Dufton - where my family originally farmed (from at least 17th Cent) before settling in Oz in 1850s. We also want to see the Lakes District and spend a few days visiting Roman sites along the Wall. We expect to have 4 full days and 2 part days before train to Bath.

We are considering using a central base (hotel or B & B) and driving out to accomplish our travel interests. Being a bit of a horse lover, my wife wants to go riding on the Fells.

We think these ideas are achievable given the distances involved - or lack of them. It all seems so small and compact compared to travelling in Oz.

We would be grateful for any comments, criticisms or tips about the above; recommendations about accomodation; must-see places in the Lakes area; must see places along the Wall - Vindolanda and Cawfields seem to me to be definites.

many thanks

Yes you must go to Vindolanda - it is many years since I last visited and I must go again. It was absolutely fascinating. Birdoswald is nearby and well worth a couple of hours.

For Hadrians Wall and the surrounding area the distances are such that a central base in one of the market towns puts everywhere within rather less than an hour's drive. I am thinking of Hexham, Haltwhistle, somewhere like that. I don't know anywhere B&B or hotel as I was working in Newcastle and took advantage of a couple of days off!

The town of Penrith is well placed for the Lake District and just about everywhere else.