The best kept secret in the Lake District
Caldbeck is the best kept secret in the Lake District
Over the summer months we will be sharing with you more about our little corner of Cumbria. The Northern Fells region of the Lake District is very special, with glorious landscapes & vast lakes yet without the crowds found in Windermere or Grasmere. Caldbeck is the best kept secret in the Lake District. Whether you want to enjoy solitude on the fells, explore the coast or discover hidden gems, Northern Cumbria has a lot of offer.
Caldbeck Village
Our shop is located in the heart of Caldbeck village. This picturesque and historic riverside Lakeland village sits on the Northern boundary of the Lake District National Park. With a thriving local community including several shops, primary school, a doctors surgery, Lofters hair salon, Positive Touch Massage, a bowling and cricket club, an active WI, Caldbeck is not just a seasonal holiday village. There is plenty to entertain you on your visit with walks to suit all abilities, as well as shopping and dining to suit all tastes.
Shop...
Hesta Scene - Our shop in the heart of the village is set across two floors where you'll find a lovely mix of gifts and home ware, products that aren't always found on the high street. We stock a mix of brands as well as one off handmade items, many of which are Cumbrian made. The name Hesta Scene comes from the Cumbrian word 'hesta' which translates to 'have you'.
The Wool Clip - People travel from far and wide to visit The Wool Clip. Based in Priests Mill, explore an Aladdin’s cave of wools, yarns and crafting kits for all ages.
Caldbeck Crafters – Based at Priests Mill, Caldbeck Crafters is home to a co-operative of artists and makers from around the Caldbeck area.
Fair World Shop – Open Easter to Christmas this little shop is packed full of ethical/fair-trade gifts, toys and food
Eat & Drink...
Caldbeck Village Shop – A well stocked village shop selling a great variety of local produce including freshly baked local bread, organic cheeses made a few miles away, fresh fish and locally reared and smoked meats.
Midtown Milkhouse – Fresh farm milk from the fells. Along with fresh milk, find a selection of local produce from a self serve 24hr vending machine. Make your own milkshakes with a great choices of flavourings.
Watermill Cafe – Serving delicious homemade food, with a great selection for breakfast & lunches.
The Muddy Duck – Riverside accessible cafe serving homemade meals, afternoon teas and sweet treats.
Oddfellows Arms – Award winning, chef owned dog friendly pub in the heart of the village. Outside seating
Explore...
In the village
Image by Garry Lomas Photography
St Kentigern’s Church – Explore this Grade 1 listed historic sandstone & limestone gem. History lovers will delighted in this 6th century site, with the current building dating back in part to the 12th century. You will also find St Mungo’s Well along the riverbank next to the Church, a spring and made holy by St Kentigern.
The graveyard is the final resting place of renowned huntsman John Peel and Mary Robinson Harrison known as the Maid of Buttermere.
Village green & duck pond – A wild flower meadow, the village green blooms in late spring/summer. Our residents ducks, moor hens and herons can be spotted at the pond, alongside grazing sheep and cattle. There are bench seats dotted around the village green to enjoy a picnic and take in the views of High Pike.
Image by Garry Lomas Photography
Walk...
The Howk – The Howk is an easy riverside walk from the centre of Caldbeck (keep in mind this walk is mostly easy but does involve steep steps). The riverside walk brings you to the site of an old Bobbin Mill. A footbridge crosses over the top of the gorge above the falls.
The Howk by Garry Lomas Photography
Parsons Park –Enjoy a delightful walk through the woods above Caldbeck. Choose from the higher woodland walk with far reaching views towards High Pike and Carrock Fell or follow the lower route along the river and head to our neighbouring village Hesket Newmarket. Keep an eye open for Red Squirrels.
Red Squirrel by Garry Lomas Photography
High Pike – Wainwright number 109, High Pike is the most northern of the fells. Reaching 658m in height, the views from the top are worth the climb. Enjoy far reaching 360 degree views across the Solway Firth to Scotland, through the Eden Valley to the Pennines and deep into the central Lakeland Fells.
Image by Garry Lomas Photography
View from High Pike, Garry Lomas Photography
We hope to see you in Caldbeck this summer. Stayed tuned to our blog over July & August as we explore more of the Northern Fells region or the Lake District and beyond into Northern Cumbria