Westmorland, United Kingdom Travel Guide

Discover Westmorland: A charming blend of stunning natural landscapes, historic villages, and delicious local cuisine in the heart of the English countryside.

Nestled in the heart of the English countryside, Westmorland offers an idyllic escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. This historic county, once a prominent region in England, is now part of Cumbria and retains its unique charm and character. With rolling hills, lush valleys, and picturesque villages, Westmorland is a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Explore the stunning landscapes of the Lake District National Park, which partially lies within Westmorland's former borders. Here, you'll find some of the most breathtaking scenery in the UK, including serene lakes, rugged mountains, and ancient woodlands. Whether you're an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, there are countless trails to suit all levels of fitness and adventure. The region is dotted with quaint villages and market towns, each offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Westmorland. Visit Kendal, known as the 'Gateway to the Lakes,' where you can wander through cobbled streets, explore historic buildings, and sample the famous Kendal Mint Cake. For a taste of the local heritage, don't miss the ancient ruins of Shap Abbey or the medieval architecture of Appleby Castle. Westmorland is also a haven for foodies, with an abundance of farm shops, local markets, and traditional pubs serving up delicious, locally-sourced cuisine. From hearty Cumbrian breakfasts to artisanal cheeses and craft ales, there's something to satisfy every palate. Be sure to try some of the region's specialties, such as Cumberland sausage and sticky toffee pudding, for an authentic taste of Westmorland.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Westmorland.

Pack sturdy walking boots for exploring the Lake District's diverse trails.
Visit local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and unique crafts.
Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Consider renting a car to fully explore the remote areas and hidden gems of Westmorland.

Destinations in Westmorland

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Lake District National Park

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Explore Westmorland: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Westmorland

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Blencathra

Blencathra, the iconic Northern Lake District peak, offers dramatic ridges, panoramic views, and challenging scrambles for adventurous walkers.

4.9

Catbells

Accessible and iconic fell near Keswick offering panoramic views over Derwentwater and the Lake District’s stunning landscape.

4.9

Derwentwater

Discover the serene beauty and adventurous spirit of Derwentwater, Keswick’s iconic lake framed by majestic fells and rich heritage.

4.8

Forest of Bowland

Explore the serene moorlands, ancient woodlands, and historic villages of the Forest of Bowland, a tranquil Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

4.7

Best landmarks in Westmorland

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Big Ben

London’s iconic clock tower, home to the Great Bell known as Big Ben, standing as a symbol of British history and parliamentary democracy.

4.5

Edinburgh Castle

Scotland's iconic fortress crowning a volcanic plug, home to Crown Jewels and centuries of history.

4.6

Hadrian's Wall

Explore the 73-mile Roman frontier of Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich with history, stunning landscapes, and ancient military architecture.

4.6

The Shard

Experience London’s skyline from the UK’s tallest building with breathtaking 360-degree views and modern luxury at The Shard.

4.6

Best restaurants in Westmorland

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Brodies

Warm hospitality and delicious contemporary cuisine await you at Brodies, Moffat’s beloved restaurant and bar.

4.6

Claudios Restaurant

Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Moffat’s charming historic setting with warm hospitality and expertly crafted dishes.

4.7

Pedro's Casa

Experience authentic Mexican tapas and cocktails in a warm, inviting setting at Pedro's Casa, Kendal's vibrant culinary gem.

4.6

Souters Inn

Historic Burns schoolhouse turned award-winning restaurant, blending Scottish heritage with contemporary culinary excellence.

4.6

Best bars in Westmorland

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19 The Wine Bar

An eclectic wine bar in Kendal with a Mediterranean rooftop terrace, cozy interiors, and a vibrant social scene.

4.5

Castle Bar

Historic 16th-century pub in Cockermouth with award-winning design, local ales, sunny beer garden, and vibrant sports bar atmosphere.

4.5

Golden Rule

A historic Ambleside pub offering traditional ales, cozy fires, and a welcoming atmosphere away from the tourist bustle.

4.7

Hole in t' Wall

Historic Lakeland pub with cozy charm, hearty food, and expertly kept ales in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Westmorland

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Flares - Newcastle

Experience Newcastle’s top retro nightclub with decades of dance hits, vibrant vibes, and a welcoming party atmosphere every night.

4.5

La Cheetah Club

Experience Glasgow’s vibrant underground scene at La Cheetah Club, a small but mighty basement venue pulsing with cutting-edge electronic beats.

3.7

Level Nightclub

Experience Bolton’s vibrant nightlife at Level Nightclub, where dynamic music, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.

3.9

Sub Club

Glasgow’s iconic underground nightclub delivering world-class house and techno in an intimate, no-frills setting since 1987.

4.2

Best shops in Westmorland

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Squirrel A store of buried treasure

Discover unique gifts and artisanal treasures in a charming converted pub at the heart of Ulverston’s Market Street.

4.5

Church Gallery

A multi-level gem in Kirkby Stephen: browse quirky gifts and cards, sip coffee, and shop ladies’ clothes in a dog-friendly, relaxed café-shop hybrid.

4.6

Elephant Yard Shopping

Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.

4.0

Kendal Indoor market

Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.

4.1

Explore Westmorland on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Westmorland, mapped for you.

Westmorland Essentials

Westmorland is located in the county of Cumbria in North West England. The nearest major airport is Manchester Airport, approximately 130 kilometers away. From Manchester, you can take a direct train to Oxenholme Lake District, which serves as a gateway to Westmorland. Alternatively, you can drive via the M6 motorway. The region is also accessible by bus services operated by National Express and local providers.
Within Westmorland, public transportation is available but limited, so renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility. The area is served by local buses that connect towns and villages. Taxis are also available but may need to be booked in advance, especially in rural areas. Cycling is popular and many roads have designated bike lanes. The West Coast Main Line railway offers connections to major cities.
The official currency is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller villages where card payments may not be accepted. ATMs are available in larger towns like Kendal and Kirkby Lonsdale. Contactless payment methods are also commonly used.
Westmorland is generally a safe area for tourists. Crime rates are low, but standard precautions should still be taken. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists, but always stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. The nearest hospitals with emergency departments are in Kendal and Lancaster. Pharmacies are available in most towns for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Don't wear overly casual clothing in fine dining establishments. Religion: Do respect religious customs. When visiting churches, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do greet the driver and passengers when boarding a bus. Don't play loud music or talk loudly. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods such as Cumberland sausage and Kendal mint cake. Don't leave without tipping, as it is customary to leave around 10-15% in restaurants.
To experience Westmorland like a local, visit the farmers' markets in towns like Kendal and Kirkby Lonsdale for fresh produce and local crafts. Take a hike in the Lake District National Park to enjoy stunning landscapes. Engage with locals in pubs, where you can often hear stories and local history. Don't miss attending local festivals and events like the Kendal Mountain Festival.

When is the best time to visit Westmorland?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Westmorland

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Westmorland. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAye up
  [ai ʌp]
- GoodbyeTa-ra
  [təˈrɑː]
- YesAye
  [ai]
- NoNaw
  [nɔː]
- Please/You're welcomePlease
  [pliːz]
- Thank youCheers
  [tʃɪrz]
- Excuse me/SorryS'cuse me
  [sɪˈkjuːz mi]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [haʊz ɪt ˈɡoʊɪŋ]
- Fine. And you?Reet. And thee?
  [riːt. ənd ðiː]
- Do you speak English?D'ye speak English?
  [dʒə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
- I don't understandAh don’t get it
  [ɑː doʊnt ɡɛt ɪt]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
  [kæn aɪ siː ðə ˈmɛnjuː pliːz]
- I don't eat meatAh don’t eat meat
  [ɑː doʊnt iːt miːt]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [tʃɪrz]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI’d like to settle up, please
  [aɪd laɪk tə ˈsɛtl ʌp pliːz]
- Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
- Go away!Clear off!
  [klɪr ɔf]
- Call the Police!Ring the bobbies!
  [rɪŋ ðə ˈbɒbiːz]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [ɡɛt ə ˈdɒktə]
- I'm lostAh'm lost
  [ɑːm lɔst]
- I'm illAh'm poorly
  [ɑːm ˈpʊəli]
- I'd like to buy...I’d like to buy...
  [aɪd laɪk tə baɪ...]
- I'm just lookingJust having a gander
  [dʒʌst ˈhævɪŋ ə ˈɡændər]
- How much is it?How much's that?
  [haʊ mʌtʃz ðæt]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit pricey
  [ðæts ə bɪt ˈpraɪsi]
- Can you lower the price?Can ye knock it down?
  [kæn ji nɒk ɪt daʊn]
- What time is it?Wot time is it?
  [wɒt taɪm ɪz ɪt]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [ɪts wʌn əˈklɒk]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [hɑːf pɑːst tɛn]
- MorningMornin'
  [ˈmɔːrnɪn]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌɑːftərˈnuːn]
- EveningEvenin'
  [ˈiːvnɪŋ]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [ˈjɛstdeɪ]
- TodayTo'day
  [təˈdeɪ]
- TomorrowTomorra
  [təˈmɒrə]
- 1One
  [wʌn]
- 2Two
  [tuː]
- 3Three
  [θriː]
- 4Four
  [fɔːr]
- 5Five
  [faɪv]
- 6Six
  [sɪks]
- 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
- 8Eight
  [eɪt]
- 9Nine
  [naɪn]
- 10Ten
  [tɛn]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [wɛrz ə/ðə]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [wɒts ðə əˈdrɛs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ye show me on t' map?
  [kæn ji ʃoʊ mi ɒn ðə mæp]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [wɛn's ðə nɛkst bʌs]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to....
  [ə ˈtɪkɪt tə....]

History of Westmorland

The region now known as Westmorland saw significant Roman activity from the 1st to 4th centuries AD. Remnants of Roman roads and forts, such as the one at Brougham, highlight the strategic importance of the area. The Romans established a network of roads connecting key locations, facilitating trade and military movements.
Westmorland boasts a rich medieval history, marked by the construction of numerous castles and monasteries. Notable examples include Kendal Castle, the ancestral home of the Parr family, and Shap Abbey, founded in 1199. These structures not only served defensive and religious purposes but also became centers of local governance and culture.
One of the last battles fought on English soil, the Battle of Clifton Moor took place near Penrith in Westmorland during the Jacobite rising of 1745. This skirmish saw the forces of Bonnie Prince Charlie clash with the Hanoverian army, marking a pivotal moment in the attempt to restore the Stuart monarchy.
Westmorland's stunning landscapes inspired the Lake Poets, a group of Romantic writers including William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Robert Southey. Their works, celebrating nature and emotion, were deeply influenced by the region's scenic beauty, particularly around the Lake District.
During the Industrial Revolution, Westmorland remained relatively untouched by large-scale industrialization, maintaining its agricultural roots. However, improvements in farming techniques and transportation, such as the construction of the Lancaster and Carlisle Railway in the 1840s, significantly impacted the local economy and connectivity.
The establishment of the Westmorland County Council in 1889 marked a new era of local governance. This body was responsible for various administrative functions, including education, transportation, and public health, shaping the modern identity of Westmorland until its merger into Cumbria in 1974.
Westmorland's cultural heritage is rich with traditions such as the Westmorland Wrestling, a sport with roots in Viking times. The annual Westmorland County Show, one of the largest agricultural shows in the UK, continues to celebrate the region's farming heritage and rural lifestyle.