Appleby is a small gem in itself, with hidden nearby waterfalls, woodland and secret river pools to seek out…

• Rutter Force

Rutter Force is a beautiful waterfall nestled beside an old mill and wheel. The waterfall was used to generate electric power in the early days of electricity. The unspoilt beauty spot can be easily reached from Appleby, with the horseshoe-shaped waterfall flowing over Hoff Beck. The best view of the force is from a narrow footbridge across the beck. 

• Acorn Bank

Around 15 minutes away from Appleby near Temple Sowerby hides Acorn Bank; a fabulous 17th century garden with a huge collection of medicinal and culinary plants, a walled garden sheltering orchards, a wild flower meadow and a formal, sunken garden that holds a pond. Other features include the old Acorn Bank Mill and the remains of 19th century mines. Be sure not to miss out the woodland trail from the gardens to Crowdundle Beck; this leads to a quiet spot with plenty of riverside spots for a picnic.

• Shap Abbey

Less than 20 minutes away from Appleby in Shap stands Shap Abbey, which dates back to the late 12th century. The ruins stand in a secluded valley on the River Lowther with the 15th century tower still remaining and open to be explored!

• River Lowther Swimming 

The ultimate hidden gem consisting of a crystal clear rock pool ideal for wild swimmers can be found via a wild swim down the river to the small hamlet of Whale. A short walk from the nearby village of Askham takes you down to the River Lowther where you can begin swimming to Whale farm. As a path begins to leave the riverside nearby the farm, you will find a deep pool looking as though it was plucked from a fairy-tale…