Longtown: History and Nature

Longtown combines historic buildings with paths along the River Esk and through the surrounding countryside. If you would like to combine culture with time outdoors during your stay, the town offers several clear starting points: Longtown Bridge and the churches tell the story of its architectural history, while walks and wildlife watching draw your attention to the river and landscape. You can choose what to focus on: architecture, a walk or wildlife watching.

Architectural history in Longtown

Longtown Bridge spans the River Esk as a road bridge built of red sandstone ashlar and dates to 1756. Its five segmental arches give the crossing a distinctly articulated form. The bridge lets you appreciate both its material and its construction: the red ashlar defines the bridge, while the row of arches shapes its course across the river.

At the centre, a standard cast-iron gas lamp dating from the 19th century has been preserved and converted to electricity. This detail links its original function as a gas lamp with a later technological change, adding another layer of history to the bridge.

Churches and historic places

The Church of St Andrew in Longtown is a Grade II listed building. Nearby is Arthuret Church. Its present form dates from 1609; it is designed in the Perpendicular style, with embattled parapets. It stands above Longtown on a hill and offers wide views over the surrounding landscape. The church thus stands out for two distinct features: its architecture and its elevated position overlooking Longtown and the surrounding area.

Archie’s grave is in the churchyard of Arthuret Church. St Michael's Well is also near Longtown, in Arthuret. The holy well probably dates from the early 17th century. Its red sandstone wellhead has a pointed arch; there are also steps and a sunken stone watering trough. At the last known sighting, the well was overgrown; it is uncertain whether it is visible today.

Walks along the River Esk and through the countryside

Longtown is a starting point for walks along the River Esk and through the surrounding countryside. Along sections of the Wilkins Pool circular walk, walkers can reach the river and skim stones across the water. Access and water conditions may vary; the River Esk can flow quickly.

The Longtown Countryside Walk offers a different focus: deer, squirrels, herons and long-eared owls are often spotted there daily. Such sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed. Unlike the Wilkins Pool circular walk, with its focus on the river, this walk offers the possibility of wildlife watching.

Nature at Moat Longtown

Livingstone Homestead in Moat Longtown combines garden areas with wetlands, meadows and woodland. It also has nature trails, a bird-watching hide and farm animals. The site is open to everyone for walking, wildlife watching, reflection and prayer. If you plan to visit, check access again before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Dufton, Westward, Calthwaite, Threlkeld, Winscales, Wheyrigg, Kirkby Thore, Maryport

For the wider travel overview: Cumbria.