For a quarter of a century, carp and roach have thrived in the two lakes. They are healthy, furtive and take perserverance to catch. You will fish in a tranquil place, far from the maddening crowd. And if you are patient, you will hook one. And then you will be back for more...

Walking along the banks of the Eden River takes you through pristine woods teeming with wildlife, to charming pubs and delicious meas. There are caves to find and myrid footpaths to follow. There are cafes, churches and stone circles to discover right on your door. And then there are the Lakeland fells a short drive away. Find out more about Walking in Eden.

If it’s a local pub you want, our local in Kirkoswald is less than five minutes by car (but if you’ve had one too many, the walk home, through rolling fields, is lovely). Looking for somewhere more ‘exclusive’? In the tiny village of Ainstable, you will find a wonderful country house and restaurant. Or you could just pick up fish and chips down the road in Lazonby. Find out more about Where to Eat in Eden. You will be spoilt for choice.

The Eden Valley has many beautiful gardens for you to explore. South of Penrith, Morland House overlooks the Pennines and, in October each year, you can take part in an apple juicing day (just remember to bring your own container!). Dalemain Mansion is surrounded by historic gardens and hosts the World Marmalade Awards. Then there’s Acorn Bank, reknowned for its herbs and fruits, not to mention Lowther Castle and gardens…

Our local village, Kirkoswald, has a thriving community shop and just a few miles away, the charming village of Armathwaite has its own store in which to buy local produce too. If you want to buy the kids a present, there is a quaint handcrafted toy shop in Lazonby.

Further afield, Penrith is a wonderful town wih a friendly, vibrant feel. All of the major supermarkets, including Booths, the ‘Waitrose of the North’, have everything you could need during your break. But there is so much more to discover like an award winning delicatessen and a superb butchers. Carlisle is Cumbria’s only city and has an extensive range of shops and services.

Nestled between the Pennines to the east and the Lake District to the west, the Eden Valley is the perfect place to ride among breath-taking views of wild moors, rolling hills and rugged mountains. Find out more by visiting Cycling in Eden.