Hadrian's Wall and its associated features are the most complex and best preserved of all the frontier works of the Roman Empire comprising the Wall itself, the Vallum, which probably marked the rear edge of the Wall zone, 16 forts (surrounded by civilian settlements) along or near the Wall, the Roman towns of Carlisle and Corbridge lying behind the Wall, and outpost forts protecting the approaches from the north. Built in the years AD 122-30 by order of the Emperor Hadrian it was 73 miles long and ran from Wallsend-on-Tyne in the east to Bowness on the Solway Firth in the west. There are many attractions along the wall such as the Romans forts of Chester, Housesteads and Birdoswald; as well as walks, including the 84 mile Hadrian's Wall Path (National Trail)

The historic home of Lord & Lady Inglewood, Hutton-in-the-Forest is a beautiful house of the north eastern edge of the Lake District. It is surrounded by magnificent woodland of the medieval forest of Inglewood. Legend has it that it is the Green Knight's castle in the Arthurian tale of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.  Originally a medieval stronghold with a pele tower, succeeding generations have altered and added to the house, and the outside and inside show a wide variety of architectural and decorative styles from the 17th century to the present day.   Anthony Salvin was responsible for the work done between 1860 and 1880, adding the large south and east wings, and the interior of the original house. The interior decoration is something of a showpiece, as it was done by William Morris, a friend of the family.  The house contains fine collections of furniture, ceramics, tapestry and portraits.

Appleby boasts a fine public swimming pool, plus other fitness facilities; locally there is fishing, clay shooting and other country activities. The Eden Valley is also home to Center Parks - Whinfell Forest, who offer day visits for non-residents.

 

 

 

17th century Acorn Bank Garden's claim to fame is its collection of medicinal and culinary plants, the largest in northern England. More than 250 varieties are grown in a walled garden. Baneberry, blackroot, wild indigo, tansy, borage, and elacampane are among the varieties. Also on the 2-½ acre site are two orchards with rare and regional fruit trees that include pear, apple, quince, and medlar. The deciduous medlar tree, related to the rose family, produces a tart, acidic fruit that looks like a brown apple. In the spring the tree is covered in white and pink flowers. Picked after the first frost, the fruit is eaten after ripening or made into jam. Shakespeare refers, in Romeo and Juliet, II, 1, to the medlar tree: ". . . Now will he sit under a medlar tree, And wish his mistress were that kind of fruit As maids call medlars, . . ." The garden's name traces back to 1597 and comes from the ancient oak woods where a walk leads to Crowdundle Beck and Acorn Bank Mill on the property. In the spring more than 60 varieties of daffodils and narcissus and wood anemones enhance the beauty of these woods. A red sandstone manor house on the property (not open to the public) once served as a base for the Knights Templar and later the Knights Hospitallers. Acorn Bank mill dates from the early 19th century, however there were other mills at the same location from at least the 12th century. Acorn Bank was derelict until the National Trust began restoration in the 1980's. During designated times the mill is in operation for visitors to enjoy.