Appleby

The Station

The station is constructed using the ‘large’ type design and built with bricks, unusual for the Settle-Carlisle where most buildings have used stone. The platforms are the longest on the line at 200 yards, built originally for the purposes of the Anglo-Scottish expresses.

The station is set fairly high above the town, with a well marked walk down to the town centre and the River Eden. Allow time to walk back to the station as is it a steep climb uphill. There is a town plan by the exit from the northbound platform.

2011 has seen a major refurbishment and improvement to the facilities at the station.

For much more information on the station including facilities and photos visit the Settle-carlisle partnership website.

The Weather Right Now

Planning your trip in advance? Click on “Extended Forecast” for a 10 day outlook.

The Local Area

Set in the quiet and peaceful vale of Eden, located at the foot of the Pennine hills, in a bend of the Lovely River Eden, is Appleby.

Appleby is an attractive market town with a great deal of charm. A beautiful picturesque place to visit.

Appleby offers a wealth of places to visit gorgeous scenery and many opportunities for walkers and nature lovers. The Eden valley is an outstanding area for walking with the town centre being an ideal starting point for dozens of walks over the surrounding fell countryside. Weather it’s a brisk walk or a slow stroll around some of the spectacular views, Appleby is sure to have something for everyone.

The town centre

Appleby has a lot of charm and character, the town centre is proof of that. With a wide selection of individual and interesting shops from galleries, homeware, gifts and books, it may not be in the same shopping league as larger towns, but Appleby is sure to tempt you and there is something to suit all tastes and budgets. Shopping or just looking, Appleby makes for a lovely day out while still admiring the stunning scenery Eden has to offer.

Lady Anne Clifford founded St. Anne’s Hospital – formerly known as The Almshouses, in 1651. Lady Anne built the Almshouses to accommodate thirteen widows who had nowhere else to go. St Anne’s is situated near the castle entrance at the high end of Boroughgate and although the houses are still occupied the courtyard and chapel may be visited during the day.

Situated at the high end of Boroughgate, in Appleby, proudly standing guard over Eden, lies Appleby Castle. The Castle was inherited by Roger de Clifford in 1269 and would remain in ownership of the Clifford family for nearly 400 years. By the 17th Century Lady Anne Clifford made the Castle her home. Unfortunately Appleby Castle is now privately owned and therefore, sadly not open to the public.

Washing horses in the River Eden

For a week in June, Appleby Fair takes place set up by charter in 1685, as a fair for horse-trading; it has grown dramatically in popularity and is now world famous. The fair is the largest of its kind in the world and attracts a huge gypsy gathering. They will gather at Appleby to meet up with old friends and conduct business. This time of the year is a great time to visit Appleby with there being such a huge atmosphere. Watching the horses getting washed in the river and then being shown off. Visit http://www.applebyfair.org/ which explains all the arrangements leading up to and during the fair, to help you plan your visit and make it as safe and enjoyable as possible.

The Moot Hall in Appleby is the place where the elected representatives of Appleby-in-Westmorland, would meet to conduct town affairs. The Moot Hall is situated at the bottom of Boroughgate, with entrance steps leading up to the landing where, in the past proclamations would be made with the townsfolk gathered below. The Council Chamber, though small, has an impressive dignity. The Mayoral chair was made in Appleby and first used in 1891. Alongside are seats for the Deputy Mayor and Town Clerk with desks and chairs for the sixteen councillors. With advance notice the historic Council Chamber can be opened for your group by a Former Town Mayor, who will provide a free light-hearted talk on the history of the Moot Hall, the townspeople and the Market. This can be arranged by contacting Appleby Tourist Information centre on 017683 51177 or by email tic@applebytown.org.uk.

Find the Station

Find the station and explore the local area on Google Maps. Click on “Directions” in the Balloon to get driving directions, and where available walking and cycling directions, without leaving our website.