Kirkby Lonsdale is a charming market town in Cumbria, full of history, scenic views, and great food. Whether you’re here for a day or a weekend, these five things to do in Kirkby Lonsdale will help you get the most out of your visit.
1. Appreciate the Lune Valley from Ruskin’s View
Few viewpoints in England are as celebrated as Ruskin’s View. From this peaceful lookout above the River Lune, you’ll see rolling green hills, woodland, and the wide Cumbrian valley stretching into the distance.
This viewpoint gets its name from the Victorian art critic and painter John Ruskin, who described the scene as “one of the loveliest views in England”. In 1822, the world-famous painter J.M.W. Turner is believed to have painted the same view!
Today it remains one of the most photographed spots in Kirkby Lonsdale, especially at sunset when the valley lights up with warm evening colours.
To reach the viewpoint, you’ll climb the Radical Steps, a short but steep stone staircase that connects the town to the riverside path. The climb only takes a couple of minutes, but the view at the top makes the effort worthwhile.
Fun fact: Despite what you might assume from the name, the Radical Steps aren’t named as such because of how hard they are to climb! The steps were built in 1820 for Dr Francis Pearson, who had a reputation as a political radical.
2. Have a drink at the Kirkby Lonsdale brewery
If you enjoy craft beer, the local brewery is a relaxed place to experience the town’s brewing culture. Visiting Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery typically involves sampling a few of their beers in the ”The Royal Barn” (the tap house) and learning a little about how they’re brewed.
Inside, you’ll find a wide range of drinks to explore. The brewery has 12 handpulls, 8 keg taps, a variety of spirits, and an extensive collection of over 60 different craft beers from around the world. This means you can try everything from classic English styles (such as pale ales and bitters) to international brews all in one place.
Check out the brewery’s Instagram to keep up to speed with new beers, deals, and events.
Side note: If beer isn’t your thing, why not consider a wine bar instead? Number Nine offers delicious wine and cocktails to suit all tastes and occasions. Take a look at our drinks menu to see for yourself!
3. Head to Devil’s Bridge to see some local history
Devil’s Bridge, Kirkby Lonsdale, is one of the top reasons people visit the area. Built in the 14th century, the bridge has connected travellers across the River Lune for hundreds of years and is still standing strong today.
Walking across the bridge, you can admire the stone arches and watch the river flowing beneath you. On warmer days, you can head down to the riverbanks nearby for a refreshing dip in the River Lune. The water can be chilly (even in summer), but it’s a popular wild swimming spot and a fun way to cool off after exploring the area.
Fun fact: According to local folklore, the Devil built the bridge in exchange for the soul of the first creature to cross it. A clever local woman tricked him by sending her dog over first.
4. Work on your swing at Kirkby Lonsdale Golf Club
If you enjoy golf, Kirkby Lonsdale Golf Course offers a scenic and welcoming place to spend a few hours outdoors. The course is almost 7,000 yards and is spread across more than 160 acres of spectacular Cumbrian landscape.
Visit Kirkby Lonsdale Golf Club
The club welcomes visitors, so you don’t need to be a member to play. For those playing a full round, buggies are available (course conditions permitting), though you’ll need to reserve one when booking your tee time. The last booking each day is at 1pm, so it’s best to plan ahead if you want to fit a round into your itinerary.
If you’re not ready for a full round, you can still enjoy the driving range, which is perfect for practising your swing or just hitting a few balls for fun. There are four covered bays as well, offering a bit of protection from the elements (which, let’s face it, you might have to contend with while visiting Cumbria).
If you’re new to golf, the club also offers pro tuition, making it a great place to try the sport for the first time.
5. Visit some of Kirkby Lonsdale’s best restaurants and bars
Despite its small size, Kirkby Lonsdale has a surprisingly lively food and drink scene. The town is packed with cosy pubs, independent restaurants, and cafés, making it easy to find somewhere welcoming to eat or unwind.
Number Nine, for example, is a small, intimate restaurant right in the heart of town. Our menu focuses on seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, often combining regional produce from Cumbria, Lancashire, and Yorkshire.
Here are some of the other best places to eat in Kirby Lonsdale:
- The Milking Parlour: Best place to take kids. A family-friendly spot serving artisan ice cream, waffles, and milkshakes made with local farm-fresh milk.
- The Sun Inn: Best for fine dining. A Michelin-recommended 17th-century inn offering refined British cuisine with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in a cosy, elevated setting.
- Wildflower Coffee: Best independent café. A charming café serving breakfast, brunch, homemade cakes, and excellent coffee.
- The Orange Tree: Best local pub. A classic, dog-friendly pub in the town centre offering hearty comfort food and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Visiting Kirkby Lonsdale? Pop in to Number Nine
At Number Nine, our focus is on quality without the fuss – well-executed dishes, balanced cocktails, and a wine list that complements every visit.
Book a table and experience the very best of Kirkby Lonsdale’s dining scene.
