Parkgate Farm Holidays

Legs a little worn out from walking/biking/riding? Take a scenic trip on the Ravenglass & Eskdale steam railway – there’s a station half a mile from Parkgate Farm, or you can board at Ravenglass, 10 minutes' drive away to ride the whole route. While you’re in Ravenglass, take a mooch round Muncaster Castle, a privately owned fort overlooking the River Esk. As well as tours round the castle there are also heaps of things for kids here, including an enchanted fairy trail, a maze and hawk displays. Golfing types can swing their clubs on the courses in Eskdale or Seascale (be prepared for potentially distracting sea views at the latter). There’s a sandy beach in Seascale too; if the water’s too chilly for swims, head north to Whitehaven (half an hour away) to the public swimming pool. The Rum Story, an exhibition in an original 1785 shop, is worth a visit up here too (and yes, you can buy bottles of the good stuff).