Why Come to Kirkby Lonsdale?
We love The Lakes – they are our neighbours after all – but the trouble with them is that you generally have to make a choice between great walks or a spot of shopping. In Kirkby Lonsdale we have it all, with The Lake District, The Yorkshire Dales, The Lune Valley and The Forest of Bowland all on our doorstep. Historic Lancaster and seaside Morecambe with the spectacularly restored Midland Hotel are just half an hour away. You will find a full guide to the local area and beyond with a map in your room, but here are some highlights.
Devils Bridge
There are numerous legends surrounding Kirkby Lonsdale’s Devil’s Bridge – ask any local and they’ll tell you their version. The most popular tells that the Devil appeared to an old woman, promising to build a bridge in exchange for the first soul to cross over it. When the bridge was finished the woman threw bread over the bridge and her dog chased after it, thereby outwitting the Devil.
Walking
The river Lune meanders through Kirkby Lonsdale and is just the place for an afternoon amble. If you would like something little more strenuous, just ask us and we’ll give you some routes. To whet your tastebuds, here’s one that appeared in The Guardian.
Shopping
You can’t come to Kirkby Lonsdale without enjoying the shops. They cater for discerning locals rather than tourists – no tat here. So as well as a butcher, a baker an ironmonger and an award winning cheese shop, you will find beautiful lingerie, stunning shoes, eclectic boutiques selling country chic, a proper toyshop, locally crafted beauty products, designer jewellery and a chocolaterie. Blessed – we truly are!
The Lake District
Just a short 20 min drive from Plato’s and you arrive in The Lake District. With jaw dropping scenery it’s a great place to explore. Head into Windermere and take a ride on the Lake District Steamers, walk the hills in Coniston or head to the Market towns such as Kendal and Keswick and visit the traditional inns, shops and tearooms.
Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales are right on our doorstep and are home to a range of fantastic scenery with so much to do. Head to Malham Village and visit Gordale Scar and its waterfalls, or even closer to home are the Ingleton falls. There are plenty of famous breweries to visit such as The Black Sheep brewery, Timothy Taylor or The Great Yorkshire Brewery. or visit the Wensleydale Creamery. Packed with bustling Market towns, your day is set to be a busy one.
Ruskin’s View
We have culture too. Turner painted here, and John Ruskin said “‘I do not know, in all my own country, still less in France or Italy, a place more naturally divine.” Well at Plato’s we’re especially lucky because Ruskin’s view is right behind us, a two minute walk away.
Guided Vault Walks
Book onto a Guided Vault Walk to delve into the mysteries of Kirkby Lonsdale and venture through the cobbled streets and secret ginnels with one of our local, trained guides. The Guided Vault walks take place on the first and third Friday and Saturday of each month at 11.30 am. Walks last about 50 minutes. Contact the Information & Gift Shop to reserve your spot. Price £5.00 for adults, Under 16s Free. – https://kirkbylonsdale.info/guided-vault-walk/
3 Counties Bike Trials
Enjoy the very best guided mountain biking in the safe arms of Paul, a qualified British Cycling Mountain Bike Leader. Experience the best trails in the 3 Counties of Cumbria, North Lancashire and the North Yorkshire Dales, tailored to your fitness, experience and location preferences.
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