Sedbergh

8:51am Tuesday 17th April 2007

Nestling in the imposing shadow of Winder Fell and in the western dales of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the newly hailed Book-town of Sedbergh equals bibliophilic bliss.

Dating back as far as the 13th Century and surrounded by exhilarating countryside, the cobbled, winding streets are now home to a good selection of fascinating book shops where literary lovers and collectors can while away the hours.

Just 10 miles from Kendal England's Book Town is home to a 12th Century Norman church and from it site on the doorstep of beautiful Dentdale is perfect for exploring the Howgills of the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District.

The town took to the television screens last year with its own BBC series dedicated to finding a European twin-town. Now, throughout the year, representatives and new-found friends from Zrece, bring Slovenian custom and culture to Sedbergh during a number of events.

Main attractions...

Aside from the range of book shops, there's a surprising menu of activities in store for visitors to Sedbergh.

Nature lovers or history fans can visit Holme Farm, open daily from March-September, where as well as fishing, visitors can enjoy farm tours and demos, nature trails and explore the remains of a Stone Age settlement.

A mile from the town, Farfield Mill Arts and Heritage Centre is a haven to the arts with working studios, exhibitions and a mill shop and café.

With a range of outdoor activities nearby as well as a host of hills to explore, pack a picnic or enjoy the scenery while going for a round of golf at Sedbergh Golf Club in the shadow of Howgill Fells.

And if it's wet...

Hawes, the home of Wensleydale cheese, is just a half-hour drive away to the east and if you fancy taking a step back in time, The Dales Countryside Museum should keep you amused for a while.

Walks...

Long - The ten mile Waterfalls Walk takes you on a circular route from Sedbergh up to Brant Fell. The passage to Caultey Holme Beck offers excellent scenery of riverside footpaths and Baugh Fell.

Short - If you prefer more level ground a variety of paths meander alongside the River Rawthey or you could take in Garsdale Valley and the River Clough on a round-trip through fields, farms and woodland. Starting from Longstone Common on the A684, it is about six miles long.

Events...

Sedbergh Gala - May.

Singing the Dalesway - May.The Flora of the Fells Book Festival - June.

Sedbergh Festival of Music - June.

Festival of Books and Drama - August.

For further information head to the YDNP Centre on Main Street (telephone 015396-20125), telephone Sedbergh's TIC on 015396 20125.

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