Cumbria is a largely rural county, and encompasses the Lake District — as such, it is considered one of the most beautiful regions in the United Kingdom. Grand views of lakes, valleys, woodlands, and fells are only emphasised by the dramatic weather, which locals will tell you often covers all four seasons in a day. The largest town is Carlisle, but it is the area’s outstanding natural beauty that has served as inspiration for artists and writers for centuries. Historic sites, many relating to conflicts between England and Scotland, are in abundance here too. Because the area is rural, schools tend to be small and perform well. Cumbria is well-connected by train, however, so even if you do trade in a busy life in London for the rural idyll of Cumbria, you won’t be isolated — just insulated.
Alston is a remote market town perched high in the North Pennines in Cumbria, well-known for being one of the highest towns in England. Sitting at approximately 1,000 feet above sea level, Alston boasts dramatic moorland scenery, cobbled streets, and a unique sense of seclusion and heritage. The area forms part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and draws residents and visitors seeking tranquillity, history, and an outdoor lifestyle.
Ambleside, nestled in the heart of Cumbria, is an iconic Lake District town acclaimed for its stunning landscapes, historic charm, and vibrant local community. Set on the northern edge of Lake Windermere, Ambleside has long attracted lovers of the outdoors, literature, and local heritage. The town centre features traditional stone buildings, a bustling main street, and easy access to an array of scenic walks, mountains, and lakes.
Appleby-In-Westmorland is an historic market town nestled in the scenic Eden Valley of Cumbria. Famed for its picturesque riverside setting along the River Eden and its proximity to both the Lake District and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Appleby-In-Westmorland attracts residents seeking rural tranquillity combined with a strong sense of historical character. The famous Appleby Castle and the medieval architecture of the town centre reveal a layered local history that stretches back centuries.
Askam-in-Furness is a coastal village situated in the southwest corner of Cumbria, just to the north of Barrow-in-Furness. Nestled on the edge of the Duddon Estuary, the village is renowned for its scenic views across the water and towards the hills of the Lake District. It developed in the nineteenth century, primarily through iron ore mining, but today is a peaceful residential area with a strong community feel. Its compact centre contains Victorian terraces, charming cottages, and a network of quiet streets, offering a relaxed lifestyle within easy reach of larger towns.
Barrow-in-Furness, located on the Furness Peninsula in Cumbria, is a historic industrial town renowned for its shipbuilding heritage. Nestled between the picturesque Lake District and the Irish Sea, Barrow offers unique coastal scenery and proximity to some of northern England’s most striking landscapes. The town’s character is shaped by its maritime roots and a diverse community that includes local families, workers from major employers like BAE Systems, and newcomers attracted by affordable living and coastline views.
Beckermet is a picturesque village set in the western part of Cumbria, just a few miles inland from the Irish Sea and south of the town of Egremont. This rural locality is surrounded by rolling countryside, ancient stone cottages, and a sense of tranquility that’s rare to find. The village is steeped in history, with a name that can be traced back to Old Norse roots and archaeological finds indicating settlement since prehistoric times. Residents of Beckermet are typically a blend of families, retirees, and professionals, many of whom work in nearby towns or at the Sellafield nuclear facility, which has influenced the area's development over recent decades.
Brampton is a small market town in Cumbria, situated about nine miles east of Carlisle and nestled on the edge of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Known for its rich history, Brampton has origins dating back to the 7th century, with its ancient market square and distinctive Moot Hall serving as focal points for the community. The town’s red sandstone buildings and picturesque lanes give it a unique charm, while its rural setting offers access to stunning countryside views and outdoor activities.
Broughton in Furness is a historic market town located on the south western edge of Cumbria, close to the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District National Park. Known for its traditional charm, the town sits amid tranquil countryside, with the Duddon Valley and the Irish Sea coast right on its doorstep.
Carlisle stands as Cumbria’s only city, acting as both a commercial and cultural hub in the far north of England. Nestled just 10 miles south of the Scottish border, Carlisle’s location has given it a rich and frequently turbulent history. The city is shaped more by its historic significance and border heritage than by modern expansion, making it unique among English cities. The centre is dominated by the imposing Norman castle and a compact medieval streetscape, while residential areas spread into leafy suburbs and new-build estates, appealing to a variety of residents.
Cleator is a village situated on the western edge of the Lake District in Cumbria, England. Nestled alongside the River Ehen and overlooking nearby fells, Cleator offers a scenic and peaceful rural lifestyle that attracts residents looking for a quiet setting amidst nature. The village’s roots stretch back several centuries and it has evolved from a former mining community, maintaining a strong sense of local identity and heritage. Many older stone-built properties and cottages line the streets, giving Cleator a traditional feel.
Cleator Moor is a small town located on the western edge of Cumbria, nestled close to the Lake District National Park and a short drive from the Cumbrian coast. Steeped in industrial history, the area originally grew as a centre for iron ore mining during the 19th and early 20th centuries, shaping its character and identity. Today, Cleator Moor offers a blend of old-world charm, access to outdoor pursuits, and a close-knit sense of community. The town’s surrounding countryside features rolling hills, woodlands, and popular walking routes, making it a favourite with hikers and cyclists.
Cockermouth is a historic market town set at the north-western edge of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria. Nestled at the confluence of the Rivers Derwent and Cocker, the town is renowned for its Georgian and Victorian architecture, picturesque streets, and rich literary heritage, being the birthplace of William Wordsworth. Residents enjoy an attractive blend of rural surroundings and easy access to the scenic fells and lakes of the Lake District, making Cockermouth popular among lovers of heritage, the outdoors, and tranquil living.
Coniston is a picturesque village located at the northern tip of Coniston Water in the heart of the Lake District National Park, Cumbria. Surrounded by celebrated fells and nestled between the dramatic Old Man of Coniston and the tranquil lake, the area is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor pursuits. The village itself retains a traditional Lakeland character, with slate-built cottages, historic inns, and a strong sense of heritage that draws both residents and visitors year-round.
Dalton in Furness is a historic market town nestled in the Furness region of Cumbria, northwest England. Sitting just north of Barrow-in-Furness and framed by the scenic landscapes of the Lake District, the town offers a blend of rural charm and local heritage. Dalton in Furness is renowned for its medieval roots, visible in landmark sites like Dalton Castle and the ancient parish church of St Mary. Its compact town centre boasts traditional stone buildings, independent shops, and a warm, close-knit community atmosphere.
Egremont is a historic market town located in the western part of Cumbria, close to the edge of the Lake District National Park. Nestled along the River Ehen, Egremont is well known for its striking Norman castle ruins and its proximity to the Cumbrian coast. The town’s roots stretch back to medieval times—and its layout and heritage are evident in its annual Crab Fair, one of Europe’s oldest community traditions.
Frizington is a village situated in West Cumbria, on the edge of the Lake District National Park and near the larger towns of Whitehaven and Cleator Moor. Known for its rural charm and strong sense of heritage, Frizington has historic ties to coal mining and quarrying, which shaped much of the local landscape and community character. Today, it is a peaceful residential area with a blend of traditional cottages, newer homes, and countryside views.
Grange-over-Sands is a distinguished coastal town located on the edge of Morecambe Bay in South Cumbria. Known for its lush, sheltered position at the foot of the Cartmel Peninsula, the town features Edwardian elegance, scenic views across tidal sands, and a distinct microclimate that makes it noticeably milder and less rainy than nearby Lake District settlements.
Holmrook is a quintessential Cumbrian village, nestled on the western edge of the Lake District National Park. It lies close to the River Irt and enjoys a spectacular backdrop of rolling hills and open countryside. The area is defined by its rural charm, peaceful atmosphere, and access to breathtaking landscapes, making it ideal for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle amidst natural beauty.
Kendal, nestled on the edge of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, is a historic market town renowned for its picturesque riverside setting, stone-built houses, and close links to the stunning Lakeland fells. Often dubbed the 'Gateway to the Lakes,' Kendal blends centuries-old charm with a practical, modern lifestyle, making it appealing to a diverse population.
Nestled between Derwentwater and the dramatic fells of the Lake District, Keswick is a renowned market town in northern Cumbria. Known for its spectacular scenery and proximity to iconic peaks such as Skiddaw and Catbells, Keswick has long attracted lovers of the outdoors, artists, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The town boasts a rich heritage, apparent in its traditional slate buildings, independent shops, and a thriving arts scene anchored by The Theatre by the Lake.
Kirkby in Furness is a collection of six hamlets overlooking the scenic Duddon Estuary, in the southwest corner of Cumbria. Nestled between the Furness Fells and the Irish Sea, the area presents rural English countryside at its most picturesque, with stone cottages, panoramic views, and the tranquil pace of village life. While agricultural roots run deep here, the history of Kirkby in Furness is also shaped by the quarrying industry and the growth of nearby Barrow-in-Furness.
Kirkby Stephen is a historic market town located in the Eden Valley, in the eastern reaches of Cumbria. Nestled between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks, Kirkby Stephen offers a quintessential rural lifestyle with breathtaking scenery, traditional stone buildings, and a close-knit community feel. The town is renowned as a hub for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, being a key stopping point on the Coast to Coast Walk and serving as a gateway to the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Maryport is a historic harbour town set on the Solway Firth, in the north-west corner of Cumbria. Known for its maritime heritage, it's a place where tradition and coastal charm meet a practical pace of life. Located close to the Lake District National Park, Maryport blends waterfront living with easy access to some of England’s most beautiful scenery. The town’s handsome Georgian and Victorian buildings line streets that reveal its rich shipbuilding and coal mining past.
Millom is a coastal town located in the south-western part of Cumbria, close to the picturesque Duddon Estuary and within easy reach of the Lake District National Park. Known for its industrial heritage rooted in iron ore mining and steelmaking, Millom has evolved into a peaceful community that combines its unique history with a semi-rural lifestyle. The town's streets are lined with Victorian-era buildings, local shops, and welcoming cafés, all set against the scenic backdrop of Black Combe and the surrounding countryside.
Milnthorpe is a large village nestled in the southern part of Cumbria, offering an appealing blend of historic charm and contemporary living. Positioned close to the River Bela and just a short drive from the Morecambe Bay coastline, Milnthorpe is renowned for its picturesque setting and vibrant village atmosphere. Historically, Milnthorpe was an important market town and port, with charming Georgian and Victorian buildings still lining its streets, contributing to the village’s unique character.
Moor Row is a small village situated in the western part of Cumbria, nestled between the coastal town of Whitehaven and the scenic landscapes of the Lake District National Park. The area is known for its historic roots in the iron ore mining industry, with remnants of the Victorian mining heritage still visible throughout the village. Today, Moor Row is characterised by a quiet, rural atmosphere and a strong community spirit, offering a slower pace of life compared to nearby urban centres.
Penrith is a historic market town situated in Cumbria, on the edge of the Lake District National Park. The town’s central location places it at a crossroads between major northern routes, blending lakeland charm with traditional Cumbrian life. Known for its cobbled streets, attractive red sandstone buildings, and bustling marketplace, Penrith has long been an important administrative and commercial centre for the region.
Ravenglass is a unique coastal village set on the western edge of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria. Nestled where the Esk, Mite, and Irt rivers meet the Irish Sea, its picturesque estuary setting has shaped its character over centuries. Renowned for its ancient Roman heritage, peaceful seafront, and as the only coastal village within the Lake District boundary, Ravenglass offers a tranquil lifestyle surrounded by dramatic landscapes.
Seascale is a small coastal village situated on the western edge of Cumbria, known for its stunning location by the Irish Sea and its proximity to the Lake District National Park. The area offers a distinctive mix of rural tranquillity and seaside charm, making it attractive to those looking for a quieter pace of life away from larger urban centres. The long, sweeping beach is a highlight, providing open views across the water and ample space for outdoor activities.
Sedbergh, a historic market town in Cumbria, is nestled between the rolling Howgill Fells and the northern edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Known as the "Book Town" of England, Sedbergh is renowned for its independent bookshops and literary festivals, drawing lovers of literature and culture alike. The town's cobbled streets and traditional stone buildings echo its centuries-old roots, while its thriving community creates a friendly, welcoming atmosphere for new arrivals.
St Bees is a picturesque coastal village nestled in Cumbria, famously marking the start of the renowned Coast to Coast Walk, a long-distance footpath that stretches across England. Overlooking the Irish Sea, the area features dramatic red sandstone cliffs, an expansive sandy beach, and a peaceful village centre with charming cottages lining winding lanes. St Bees combines rural tranquility with a rich historical heritage, evidenced by its ancient priory, Victorian architecture, and traditional railway station.
Ulverston is a bustling market town located on the edge of the Lake District National Park in South Cumbria. Situated close to Morecambe Bay, Ulverston is noted for its historic cobbled streets, a rich arts and music scene, and its distinctive limestone buildings. The town enjoys a picturesque rural setting, surrounded by rolling hills and scenic countryside, and is the starting point of the Cumbrian Way hiking trail.
Whitehaven is a coastal town situated on the west coast of Cumbria, overlooking the Irish Sea. Characterised by its Georgian architecture and maritime heritage, Whitehaven is known for its picturesque harbour—a focal point of the town’s identity. Historically a significant port, Whitehaven flourished in the 18th century as a centre for coal exports, tobacco, and rum. Today, its streets are lined with elegant period buildings, and the bustling harbour remains a hub for leisure craft and community events.
Wigton is a historic market town situated in the county of Cumbria, nestled between the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the eastern edge of the Lake District National Park. Positioned approximately ten miles southwest of Carlisle, Wigton is known for its traditional town centre, which features a handsome Georgian clock tower and cobbled streets echoing its rich heritage. The town has retained much of its period charm, while providing a practical home for those seeking a quieter lifestyle surrounded by stunning rural scenery.
Windermere is an iconic town situated in the heart of Cumbria, just to the east of its namesake lake—England’s largest natural lake and a centrepiece of the Lake District National Park. Known for its picturesque setting, the area draws visitors and residents who favour natural beauty, historic charm, and a lifestyle closely tied to the outdoors. The town itself offers an intriguing blend of traditional Lakeland stone architecture and modern amenities, with Bowness-on-Windermere lying just a short walk downhill, serving as Windermere’s lakeside partner.
Workington is a historic coastal town situated in the county of Cumbria, within the scenic landscapes of north-west England. Set where the River Derwent meets the Irish Sea, Workington has deep roots in industry, particularly iron and steel, which have shaped its character and development over centuries. Remnants of this industrial past remain, blending with the natural beauty of its riverside and coastal walks.