Discover Askham

Askham offers two distinct aspects to consider when planning a trip: a village layout shaped by the medieval period and a rural setting with opportunities for walking and cycling. Those choosing a stay for its scenery and activities will find a circular walking route and an extensive network of bridleways alongside historic buildings. The village’s history and outdoor activities thus offer two different reasons to get to know the place better.

Medieval village layout

Askham developed as a medieval planned settlement associated with Askham Hall. Its residential tower was probably built in the 14th century; Askham Hall is listed as a Grade I building.

The linear settlement pattern features almost continuous frontages of farmhouses, barns and cottages dating from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. These face one another across the village greens. The village’s historic character is therefore evident not only in individual houses, but also in the arrangement of the buildings. In Askham, 44 listed buildings, together with other historic buildings, contribute to its distinctive character and appearance.

St Peter’s Church is another of the village’s historic buildings. It was built in 1832 to a design by Sir Robert Smirke. Together with Askham Hall and the building frontages, it provides another tangible point of reference for the village’s architectural history.

Landscape and circular walking route

Askham is set in the countryside between Askham Fell and the River Lowther, on the western side of the Lowther Valley. Open fields surround the village to the north and south. As a result, village buildings and open landscapes sit side by side in the immediate surroundings.

The Lowther Castle Loop is a 12 km circular walking route. It passes through the estate’s parkland, along riverside paths, across meadows and along village streets, as well as through the open terrain of Askham Fell. The route climbs Askham Fell, where there are far-reaching views of Ullswater and the Helvellyn Range. Check conditions and rights of way before setting out on a walk. The main entrance to the Lowther Castle estate is from Askham via Askham Bridge.

Cycling routes, wildlife and village life

If you are choosing between a walk and a mountain bike ride, the options differ considerably: the Lowther Castle Loop is a circular walking route of a set length; on Moor Divock and Askham Fell, an extensive network of bridleways offers off-road mountain biking, mostly on non-technical surfaces. More than 300 bird species have also been recorded in Askham; deer and squirrels are also found here.

The Queen’s Head is the village pub in Askham and has retained much of its 17th-century character. The Allium restaurant at Askham Hall welcomes both overnight guests and non-residents. The village itinerary thus includes various places to visit as well as its historic layout and outdoor activities.

Discover more destinations: Lindal in Furness, Oulton, Roose, Appleby-In-Westmorland, Askam-In-Furness, Longtown, Cotehill, Torpenhow

For the broader travel overview: Cumbria.