Kirkby Stephen is a prime gateway to the Westmorland Dales, part of Yorkshire Dales National Park. The town is also right on the edge of the North Pennines Area of Natural Beauty, which incorporates some stunning landscapes. Staying in or near Kirkby Stephen you can explore both areas and be in easy reach of the Lake District too.
The Eden Valley is also a beautiful place to explore, with plenty of opportunities for walking and cycling. Kirkby Stephen sits in the Upper Eden Valley, surrounded by delightful villages like Ravenstonedale, Winton, Nateby and Soulby.
In April 2009, Kirkby Stephen became the first town in Cumbria to be awarded Walkers are Welcome status. The national Walkers are Welcome scheme involves a long-term commitment to surveying local paths, operating a rights of way problem reporting system and improving facilities for walkers. The remit also involves encouraging walkers to visit Kirkby Stephen and the beautiful surrounding countryside, wherever possible using public transport.
The local Walkers are Welcome group consists of a committee of volunteers which is includes a representative of the Town Council, accommodation providers, a member of the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, The Eden Viaducts Trust and other outdoor service providers. The group is supported by Kirkby Stephen Town Council.
Tourist information
The Visitor Centre in Kirkby Stephen is a valuable source of information and advice, run by a team of enthusiastic volunteers. Find out more about the Visitor Centre and other tourist information for the wider Eden Valley.
Town Council
Many of the services in Kirkby Stephen are run by the Town Council, along with Parish Councils from the surrounding villages. The Town Council has an informative website which includes a list of accommodation providers.
Kirkby Stephen & District Walkers are Welcome 