Devil's Bridge — Attraction in Kirkby Lonsdale

Lovely scenic place to visit or use as a stop off. Very popular spot for bikers. Parking and toilets at one side of the bridge. You need money to use them or wait for someone to exit and grab the door before it shuts and locks again. Also, good for letting the dog/s out to relieve themselves. Just clean up after them. Dog bins available. On the other side of the bridge is a mobile cafe to grab a bite to eat and a brew, cold drinks etc. Follow the footpaths and explore. Well worth it. It's a nice walk or short car journey to get to the historic town of Kirkby Lonsdale. You'll find eateries, gift shop, arts and crafts and plenty more amenities. Very popular tourist spot and steeped in history which you can find out from the tourist board. There is also a Booth's supermarket located just a little way north of Devil's Bridge, just off the main road for convenience. There is a caravan site a stones throw from Devil's Bridge and plenty of B and B's and cottages to stay at, within and around this area. Devil's Bridge is well situated place to stay. Short drive to enjoy the delights of North Yorkshire, East Lancashire and the South Lakes of Cumbria. Easy to get to by using the A65 road or short distance from...

“I do not know in all my country, still less in France or Italy, a place more naturally divine." 19th century art critic, social theorist, painter and poet John Ruskin.

We parked for free near Devil’s Bridge, which is medieval in its structure and shrouded in folklore. With three spectacular arches, this bridge dates from the 12th or 13th century and is a scheduled ancient monument. From here, we took the river walk towards the Radical Steps, which are extremely steep, and saw herons successfully fishing from the River Lune. There are various places where you can walk right to the water’s edge and admire the rushing water as it cascades downstream. Unusually, we saw an albino/ light grey crow here too with a black crow building a nest together.

Walking up the 42 Radical Steps (built in 1820 to prevent people using the public footpath through Doctor Francis Pearson‘s garden!), we were rewarded with a stunning view at the top known as ‘Ruskin’s View’. It was beautiful - especially as we saw it on a late summer’s evening as the soft light lit up the hills spectacularly. Well worth a visit if you’re...

Amazing family day out for families with children over 6 or good swimmers.

Few things to note.

Parking is non existent as on a day warm enough for swimming the whole world descends and the 40ish spots are gone by 10am. You can get a train or bus to Kirby Lonsdale from most neighbouring towns and that would be my reccomendation beyond arriving early or late afternoon (spaces come available again around tea time).

Water shoes or shoes you arent bothered about are ESSENTIAL as the egress to the water is over sharp and uneven stone. Bring enough snacks and drinks as nearest shop is quite a walk away.

Small public toilets that need money are on the car park and we use them for changing after.

The current isn't too strong for swimming, even at the deepest points, however floaties or light boats will flow pretty quick down...