Heather Glen Country House is surrounded by so much to see and do. The beautiful Eden Valley, with both the North Pennines and Lake District close by, has an abundance of walks and miles of cycle routes. The famous ‘Coast to Coast Route’, for example, lies just a few miles to the southeast, and the picturesque River Eden runs through the heart of our local countryside.

The market town of Penrith, northern gateway to the Lakes, is located just 11 miles to the south, and offers access to the stunning Lake District. Visit Lowther Castle and then take a journey on the Ullswater ‘Steamers’, Lady of the Lake, from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding. Further along to the southwest is Keswick, a true gem of the Lake District offering plenty of hiking and outdoor activities outside of the town and plenty of pubs, shops, cafes and restaurants lining the cobbled streets within.

To the north lies the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the edge of the Roman Empire where Hadrian’s Wall traverses the neck of England. Roman Vindolanda Fort & Museum are a must see, housing ‘Britains Top Treasure’ the Vindolanda Tablets.

Again to the north lies the border city of Carlisle. The city has been dominated for nine centuries by its castle, with a short walk to Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery and community hub. There is plenty to see here on one of our wonderful ‘wet weather days’! Walk a little further along Castle Street to visit Carlisle Cathedral with its 19 stunning, stained glass windows.

To our east, on the ‘Coast to Coast Route’, popular with cyclists and motor cyclists, is Alston Moor, centre of the North Pennines Area of OutstandingNational Beauty, covering 50 square miles of superb countryside surrounded by beautiful, dramatic fells and sculpted by sweeping river valleys. The small town of Alston nestles in this setting at the crossroads of five historic trans Pennine routes. Take a trip on the South Tynedale Railway, a preserved 2ft (620mm) narrow gauge heritage railway, and at 875ft, it is England’s second highest, narrow gauge railway.

To the west lies the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding National Beauty. Covering 115 square km of northern Cumbria, it is loved by cyclists looking for quiet roads, and families for walks. The Solway has something to offer birdwatchers all year round.

Our nearest railway station, in the neighbouring village of Armathwaite, is on the historic Settle to Carlisle Railway Line running from Carlisle to Leeds, and is one of the UK’s most famous scenic rail routes, taking in 20 viaducts, 14 tunnels and countless beautiful vistas along its 72 mile track.