Guide to Sedbergh

10:52am Tuesday 10th August 2004

Nestling in the imposing shadow of Winder Fell, with cobbled streets and surrounded by exhilarating countryside, the historic market town of Sedbergh dates back to the 13th century.

Halfway between Kendal to the west, Hawes to the east and on the doorstep of beautiful Dentdale, Sedbergh is perfect for exploring the Howgills of the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District.

Such is the attractiveness of the town, BBC film crews have chosen to document its search for a european twin town in a 12-part BBC2 series

Main attractions

There are a variety of shops and alleys to explore in this interesting town.

George Fox, founder of the Quakers, preached in both St Andrew's church and the nearby Briggflatts Quaker Meeting House which dates from 1675.

A mile from town on the A684 Garsdale and Hawes Road can be found Farfield Mill, Arts and Heritage Centre. Originally built in 1837, it has been transformed into a state-of-the-art visitor attraction with studios showing arts and crafts at work, a Mill Shop and caf.

And if it's wet

In addition to Farfield Mill, there are some specialist antiquarian bookshops in Sedbergh and more are planned as part of the town's bid to become England's first ever booktown. The Dales Countryside Museum at Hawes is 30 minutes away by car on the A684 east.

Walks

Short - The most obvious is Winder. This is about four miles and climbs to 1,500 feet. Rawthey Way is a three and half-mile lowland walk, taking in sights of the river.

Long - At five miles long but with care needed in bad weather, Cautley Spout and The Calf from the Cross Keys Hotel on the A683 Sedbergh to Kirkby Stephen Road, is worth a look, as it encompasses a mountain waterfall dropping 200 metres.

Events for 2004

Lunesdale Agricultural Show, August 10 Sedbergh Arts Society, August 20 Sedbergh Fayre, August 28.

For further information

Head to the Yorkshire Dales National Park Centre on Main Street, Sedbergh, telephone 015396 20125, which is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until March.

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