Living in Appleby-In-Westmorland

Appleby-In-Westmorland is recognised for its friendly, community-driven atmosphere. Residents take pride in maintaining local traditions and supporting events such as the Appleby Agricultural Show, Appleby Carnival, and various farmers’ markets. Volunteering and participation in local societies, such as historical or gardening groups, is high, reflecting strong social bonds in the town.

The River Eden and the nearby fells encourage an active outdoor lifestyle, with riverside walks, fishing, horse riding, and cycling all easily accessible. Jubilee Bridge and Appleby Castle’s grounds are popular spots for families, walkers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Local sports clubs, including cricket, football, and tennis, bolster opportunities for social and physical activity.

A well-used community centre, frequent local performances, and a cluster of independent shops, galleries, and artisan markets add to the town’s sense of cohesion and character.

Crime rates in Appleby-In-Westmorland are generally low compared to urban centres, contributing to the area’s reputation for safety and peace of mind. As a small market town, Appleby typically avoids the higher crime statistics seen in larger towns or cities in Cumbria. Residents characterise the area as safe, with strong neighbourhood ties helping to maintain a sense of security.

The annual Appleby Horse Fair, a large event in the town’s calendar, does bring increased visitors and a greater police presence to manage crowds and ensure safety. Outside of this, local policing teams are visible and community-focused, working with residents and businesses to address concerns and prevent anti-social behaviour. Youth clubs, Neighbourhood Watch schemes, and local council initiatives help further promote safety and cohesion across the town.

Parking in Appleby-In-Westmorland is typically straightforward, with a number of public car parks located close to the town centre and railway station. On-street parking is available but may be subject to restrictions, particularly during peak periods or special events such as the Horse Fair. Resident permits are not generally required outside major events, and parking is rarely a source of stress for locals.

The main road access is via the A66, connecting Appleby efficiently with nearby towns and onwards to the M6, making driving to surrounding areas quick and convenient. The rural road network is well maintained, though narrow country lanes can require vigilance, especially in winter months. Major destinations and drive times include:

• Penrith – approx. 25 mins via A66 (14 miles)
• Carlisle – approx. 55 mins via A66 and M6 (50 miles)
• Kendal – approx. 50 mins via A685 (36 miles)
• Brough – approx. 15 mins via A66 (10 miles)

Congestion is rare, except during large public events, and the town is well placed for scenic drives through the Lake District and North Pennines.

Appleby-In-Westmorland offers a cosy and traditional food and drink scene, fitting for a rural market town. Local pubs, such as The Royal Oak and The Midland Hotel, serve hearty home-cooked meals and Cumbrian ales, forming focal points for social gatherings and community life. There are several independent cafés and tearooms dotted around the central Boroughgate, with options for homemade cakes, light lunches, and afternoon tea.

Restaurants in the area focus on local produce, with The Tufton Arms Hotel providing more formal dining and The Eden River Café catering for lighter bites. A handful of takeaways offer fish and chips, Chinese cuisine, and pizza, fulfilling casual dining needs. Nightlife is generally low-key, with most socialising centred around the town’s pubs rather than late-night bars or clubs.

Seasonal events, open-mic nights, and quiz evenings at local venues provide a sociable atmosphere, while larger theatre, music, and cinema options are accessible in Penrith or Kendal.

School Quality: Families in Appleby-In-Westmorland benefit from both a well-regarded primary school and a historic grammar school, with both providing a supportive learning environment and extracurricular opportunities. Many pupils grow up together throughout their school years, adding to the town’s community bonds.

Parks and Green Space: The Eden Valley’s abundant green spaces, riverbanks, and sports fields give families plenty of room for outdoor play, picnics, and exploration. Appleby is also close to walking routes and safe countryside lanes.

Childcare: Several childminders, playgroups, and after-school clubs operate in and around the town, providing support for working families and social development for younger children.

Safety: The low crime rate and strong sense of mutual support make Appleby-In-Westmorland a reassuring place for children to grow up. Community initiatives ensure neighbourhoods remain safe and welcoming.

Family Activities: Local sports clubs, arts events, fishing, horse riding lessons, and participation in the iconic Appleby Horse Fair give families a wide range of things to do together. Seasonal festivals, holiday events, and open days at Appleby Castle also add variety.

Appleby-In-Westmorland is highly regarded as a pet-friendly place to live, appealing to dog owners, horse riders, and other animal lovers. With immediate access to vast countryside, the River Eden’s pathways, and the open spaces of the North Pennines and Lake District national parks, there are plentiful walking, running, and exercising options for pets.

Several local businesses cater to animals, including vet clinics, pet supply shops, and stables for horse owners. Many of the town’s cafes and pubs are dog-friendly, welcoming pets with water bowls and treats. Local parks and the riverside area are popular for daily walks, and nearby bridleways are ideal for equestrian families. Housing, both in the town and outlying villages, typically offers gardens or outdoor space, supporting pet-friendly living across the community.

Appleby-In-Westmorland benefits from its position on the picturesque Settle-Carlisle railway line. Appleby railway station provides direct connections north to Carlisle in around 35 minutes, and south to Leeds in roughly 1 hour 45 minutes, making national journeys straightforward. The station is within walking distance of the town centre, enhancing convenience for rail commuters or visitors.

Bus connections link Appleby to Penrith, Kendal, and surrounding villages, though rural timetables mean services may be less frequent than in urban areas. The A66 trunk road, just north of the town, offers direct car access to Penrith (about 14 miles/25 minutes), where onward journeys to Carlisle, Keswick, or junctions with the M6 motorway are possible.

• Penrith – 25 mins by road / 20 mins by train
• Carlisle – 35 mins by train / 1 hour by car
• Kendal – Approximately 50 mins by road
• Leeds – 1 hr 45 mins by train

The nearest major airport is Newcastle International, around 1 hour 30 minutes by car, while Manchester Airport can be reached in about 2 hours. Cyclists and walkers can take advantage of the Eden Valley’s quiet country lanes and national trails that pass through or near the town.

Appleby-In-Westmorland offers a selection of educational facilities serving the local and surrounding rural community. For families with young children, Appleby Primary School is the main provider, delivering a broad curriculum for ages 4–11. As of its last Ofsted inspection in October 2017, the school was rated 'Good', praised for its nurturing approach and community values.

At secondary level, Appleby Grammar School is the area's key institution, dating back to 1454 and carrying a strong historical legacy. This coeducational secondary caters to students aged 11-18 and was also rated 'Good' by Ofsted in September 2019, recognised for its academic standards and extracurricular opportunities. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment and close ties to the local community.

For post-16 education, some students travel to Newton Rigg College in Penrith, which offers rural, land-based, and vocational courses, while others may opt for sixth forms in Penrith or Kendal for a wider choice of A-Level subjects. The nearest universities are in Carlisle (University of Cumbria) and Lancaster (Lancaster University), both accessible via rail or road for students seeking higher education.