What makes Kirkby Lonsdale famous?

Despite Kirkby Lonsdale being a small village, it is an ancient settlement brimming with history, famous landmarks and stunning surroundings that attract visitors from near and far…

  • Historic Features

Kirkby Lonsdale is a historical place and one of the few Cumbrian towns mentioned in the 1086 Domesday Book. The town shows signs of early occupation including a Neolithic stone circle on Casterton Fell and there is evidence of a Roman road following the River Lune. A Roman milestone was found in 1836 beside Hawkin Hall and was described as one of the best in the country.

  • Devils Bridge

Devils Bridge is an iconic three arched bridge standing over the River Lune, and is believed to date back to the 12th or 13th century. The bridge is famous for its associated legend where the Devil appeared to an old woman, promising to build a bridge in exchange for the first soul to cross over it. When the bridge was finished, the woman threw bread over the bridge and her dog chased after it, thereby outwitting the Devil. Despite the legend, the bridge was likely built by the monks of St Mary’s Abbey.

  • Ruskins View

A beautiful viewpoint in Kirkby Lonsdale was made famous by 19th century art critic, social theorist, painter and poet John Ruskin. The countryside scene was painted by artist JWM Turner in 1822 and impressed John Ruksin so much so that he wrote: ‘I do not know in all my country, still less in France or Italy, a place more naturally divine,’ describing the view as ‘one of the loveliest views in England, therefore in the world’. His impression of the view attracted many visitors to the area to see the beautiful spot; it is still a popular viewpoint today.  

  • Traditional Market

A weekly market has been taking place in Kirkby Lonsdale’s Market Street since the town gained a market charter in 1227. Originally, the market had a Horsemarket for horse traders and a Swinemarket for pig sellers. Now, the market is still a bustling activity in the town consisting of traditional stalls selling locally sourced food and craft produce.