Review of A Corner of Eden, Cumbria

The pantry is full of great local goods for sale, and the sitting room has comfortable sofas and a fire that Debbie maintained throughout the evening. The dining room is decorated in dark woods and has a cosy fireplace.

The Activities
Walking is the main activity in the Eden Valley. Footpaths and bridleways lead right from A Corner of Eden through pastures and fells in the area. There are plenty of maps in the sitting room, and Debbie and Richard are experts in the walking routes around the B&B.

While there, I walked to the nearest pub, The Fat Lamb, which was across three fields. I also walked to the nearby village of Ravenstonedale. It is easily accessible by road or footpath on a scenic 40 to 50 minute walk.

If you have a car, Debbie can recommend some nearby villages to explore. Some have good shopping, and most have restaurants, pubs, and cafes. I went to the town of Kirkby Stephen, where a Poetry Path walk combined a trail through the woods with a dozen poems carved into rocks.

If the weather isn’t nice, there are wellies and Barbour jackets in the B&B that you can borrow, and there is a cupboard in the dining room that is well stocked with board games. The sitting room is also a comfortable place to relax on rainy days.

The Food
The food at A Corner of Eden is excellent. Debbie uses much of her own produce, including fresh eggs from her chickens. Bacon comes from a local butcher, and other meat is from the area. The hot breakfast menu is extensive, and there is also a range of juices, yogurts, cereals, and other cold options. I had a delicious plate of muffins with poached eggs and bacon, and was amazed by how fresh everything was.

Debbie’s award-winning cakes and pastries are always on offer in the pantry on a complimentary basis, as are coffee, tea, and other light snacks. There is also an honesty bar that has beer, wine, and spirits.

What Makes A Corner of Eden Green?
The impressive solar panels are just one of the many eco-credentials. Photo: Julie FalconerThe water at A Corner of Eden comes from from a fellside spring near the property, and all light bulbs are energy-efficient. Recycling bins are provided in the pantry, and food waste is composted. Eco-friendly cleaning products are used to tidy the rooms and clean the linens.

Richard makes most of the wooden details in the B&B from local timber, including the beautiful dining room table. The spa and design products for sale are all locally produced, and most of the food is either grown on-site or sourced locally.

How to Get There Using Public Transport
If you arrive by train, you can alight at the Kirkby Stephen station on the Settle-Carlisle Railway. If you arrange it in advance, Debbie can pick you up from there. Alternately, she can give you the phone number of a local taxi company. Book train tickets via thetrainline.com: Train Tickets to Cumbria

Top Tip
The Eden Valley is stunning; bring a camera if you want to capture the landscapes and scenery. Don’t forget to bring sturdy walking shoes and clothing for all weather.

Verdict
A Corner of Eden is a great place to spend a weekend as a couple, family, or solo traveler. For larger groups, renting out the entire B&B is a great idea as well. Debbie and Richard’s warm hospitality, excellent food, and high quality accommodation are well worth the trip.

Relax in the tranquil countryside near A Corner of Eden. Photo: Julie Falconer

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