Village of Stainton
Cumbria has so much to offer for every visitor, whether you are looking for a strenuous and energetic walking holiday or a time to relax and watch the world go by.
If it’s a leisurely time that you want, you may not wish to travel very far and you may prefer to park up your car for the duration of your stay.
If that's you, there's plenty to charm you in and around the village of Stainton itself.
Although it is a quiet little village, it is not without its interests - some of which might surprise you.
Alpaca Farm
If you like fine clothes and something that is a bit out of the ordinary then you'll enjoy visiting the Alpaca Centre, just on the edge of the village.
Alpacas are similar to the llama and are bred for their soft, hard wearing fibre, which is almost as strong as silk.
Admission to the Alpaca Centre is free and you can see the animals, along with a wide variety of garments made from the fibre that are on sale at the centre.
And when you have looked around, you can enjoy a delicious cup of tea or coffee and cake in the refreshment area.
Open Air Market
If your stay includes a weekend then every Saturday there is the largest open-air market in Cumbria and it is within easy walking distance from the village or there is plenty of parking if you prefer to take the car.
Ideally you will want to visit the market when the weather is fine, though many of the stalls are actually under cover so there is still much to interest you even when the weather is less favourable.
Undoubtedly this is a browser's paradise and you are bound to find items on sale that can be difficult to source elsewhere and often at very keen prices.
Church on Sunday
If you are around on Sunday, then most church denominations are represented, including a small Methodist chapel in the village itself.
If you want to go further afield, then you will find many other lively churches in the town of Penrith, which is only 10 minutes or so drive away.
