Attractions and Places To See around Temple Sowerby - Top 20

Temple Sowerby is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle, one of England's largest stone circles dating back 5000 years. Another significant historical site is Lowther Castle, the ancestral home of the Earls of Lonsdale, offering extensive gardens and ruins. Further afield, Penrith Castle, a ruined medieval castle, is also accessible.

Yes, the area boasts several natural highlights. The highest point in the Pennines, Cross Fell Summit, offers far-reaching views of the Lake District and both coasts on a clear day. You can also find the picturesque River Eden and Crowdundle Beck, known for wildlife like otters and kingfishers, with footpaths leading from the village. The Eden Valley itself provides stunning views and a tranquil environment.

For families, Lowther Castle is an excellent choice, featuring an adventure playground, gardens, and walking trails suitable for all ages. The Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle is also considered family-friendly, offering an engaging historical experience in an open setting.

The region around Temple Sowerby is ideal for various outdoor pursuits. You can explore numerous walking trails, including the Temple Sowerby Circular Walk and routes along the River Eden. For cycling enthusiasts, there are many road cycling routes, such as the 'Dangerous Ford and Footbridge – View of Sunbiggin Tarn loop' or the 'Great Dun Fell Climb – Appleby-in-Westmorland loop'. You can find more details on these routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Temple Sowerby guide and the Cycling around Temple Sowerby guide.

Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The 'Ousenstand Bridge loop from Temple Sowerby' is a short, easy walk. Other accessible routes include the 'Morland Village – Dangerous Ford and Footbridge loop' and 'The Strickland Arms loop from Clifton'. These are perfect for those looking for a gentle stroll. More easy hikes can be found in the Easy hikes around Temple Sowerby guide.

The spring and summer months (May to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the Eden Valley. During these seasons, trails are typically drier, and the views from places like Cross Fell Summit are clearer. However, the area's charm can be appreciated year-round, with autumn offering beautiful foliage.

Temple Sowerby, known as the 'Queen of Westmorland Villages,' is notable for its traditional sandstone buildings clustered around a village green. The village green itself is a historic site where John Wesley preached in 1782 and uniquely retains a maypole. St James' Church, built in 1754, adds to the village's historic character, and the Victory Hall serves as a cultural hub for events.

For attractions like Lowther Castle, there is a large free car park available, which is also a convenient starting point for bike rides. For Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle, a free car park is located nearby.

Penrith Castle is listed as wheelchair accessible, offering an opportunity to explore a significant historical site. It's always advisable to check specific accessibility details with individual attractions before your visit.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning views from places like Cross Fell Summit, especially on clear days. The historical significance and beauty of sites like Long Meg and Her Daughters Stone Circle are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the facilities at Lowther Castle, including its cafe, gardens, and adventure playground, making it a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Yes, Lowther Castle features a brilliant cafe, with access to the tea rooms and toilets being free even if you don't pay for admission to the castle and gardens. Within Temple Sowerby village, you can find local establishments that offer refreshments, reflecting the village's charming character.

Beyond the immediate vicinity, the broader area is home to several other significant historical sites. These include Acorn Bank Garden and Mill, which features a 15th-century pele tower at Mill Rigg House Farm, and Newbiggin Hall, with origins in a 13th-century Pele tower. A Roman Milestone, believed to be in its original position, can also be found on the old A66.