Appleby-in-Westmorland is steeped in history and features picturesque streets filled with charming homes. You will find peace and tranquillity if you’re moving to this Cumbria town, with pleasant riverside walks and picnic areas always close by. There’s also a small buzz here, with local cafes, restaurants, shops and markets in the town centre adding to the atmosphere. In this guide, we’re discovering Appleby, from its history to all the things to do and see.
A brief history of Appleby
Appleby was the county town of Westmorland for many centuries. Then, in 1974, the county of Cumbria was created, and Appleby’s was changed to preserve the ancient county of Westmorland. Since then, it has been known as Appleby-in-Westmorland, with the full name acting as a reminder of the town’s heritage.
Where is Appleby?
Appleby is located in the Eden district of Cumbria and is a market town and civil parish. It lies just under 14 miles southeast of Penrith, 32 miles from Carlise and 45 miles west of Darlington. It was once the smallest county town in England. Today, however, Rutland is widely regarded as the smallest town.
Moving to Appleby
From quaint stone cottages to thirties terraces and newer homes to bungalows, house hunters in Appleby have plenty of options when it comes to finding their next home. Getting to grips with how to move house, particularly to a new area, is tough, so get organised as early as possible to make it easier.
Buying in Appleby
The average house value in Appleby is £225,466, with paid prices achieving almost £10k more at £233,025. Expect to pay around £318,549 for a detached home, £168,233 for a terraced house and £132,000 for an apartment.
Appleby property prices are slightly lower than the UK national average of £251,000. Over the last 12 months, house prices have increased by 13% and by 21% in the last five years.
There’s a varied selection of estate and letting agents in Appleby, including chain and independent options ready to help you find a home. When preparing to buy a house, it’s useful to use an estate agent’s local knowledge to your advantage, as they’re the ones with their ear to the ground.
Renting in Appleby
One-bedroom homes rent for an average of £250 per month in Appleby, two-bedroom properties fetch in the region of £500 per month, and three-bedroom-and-up houses achieve £900 per month.
Cost of living
If you’re moving to Appleby, you’ll be pleased to know that typical living costs are in line with the UK national. A meal for one person is around £10, which is slightly cheaper than the UK average. While a cappuccino is about £2.50 and a loaf of bread is £0.62.
Utility bills, which include electricity, heating, cooling, water and waste disposal, cost an average of £168. They are around £13 more expensive than the national average, while broadband is around £29 per month, two pounds cheaper than the national average.
Living in Appleby
Appleby is small but full of charm. From local cafes and restaurants to scenic walks and places to enjoy a picnic, there’s plenty to do and see. Its main street, Boroughgate, is known as one of the most beautiful in the UK, and there are scenic sights everywhere you look in the town.
Open spaces
Appleby lies in the heart of Eden Valley, which has plenty of delightful open spaces to explore, either by foot or on two wheels with your cycle. The Dales Highway, Westmorland Way, Lady Anne’s Way and The Pennine Way all provide long walking routes where you can get back to nature.
Transport links
Appleby train station is on the Carlisle and Settle line, while there’s also a local bus network with services to Penrith, Kirby Stephen, Winderwath, Long Marton, to name a few.
Shopping
There’s a small market every Saturday in Appleby, plus a range of shops selling everything from produce to household items. The traditional sweet shop is a big hit with locals.
Eateries
Choose from a selection of eateries that include favourites like Bojangles with its modern cafe bistro offering and Ashiana, a local restaurant serving Asian cuisine.
Nightlife
Appleby is a small town, which means there isn’t a nightlife scene as such. However, there’s a range of local pubs, including Crown & Cushion, which is a historic boozer serving up a selection of ales.
Art & culture
The Courtyard Gallery is the place to go for original paintings and prints. It’s housed in a 17th-century Granary and is full of gems for you to discover.
Things to do
Head to Appleby Castle Hotel, a historic building where you can stay overnight for a quick getaway or admire the beautiful building and grounds while enjoying an afternoon tea.
What’s not to like?
If you’re not a fan of the small-town life, then Appleby probably isn’t for you. There isn’t much of a nightlife scene, which may deter younger demographics who desire a more lively place to call home.
Who lives there?
Appleby has a population of just over 3,000 and a median age of 52.
Typical broadband speeds
The average broadband speed is 26mbps in Appleby, which is considerably lower than the UK national average of 67mbps.
Crime rates
Crime rates in Appleby average just 34 per year and are significantly lower than the national average of 10,000.
Want more information about moving to Appleby?
Get even more information about moving to Appleby with Move iQ’s property report, which provides in-depth information on specific properties in this Cumbria town so you can move with confidence. This includes everything from nearby planning applications to property value. Get yours today!
Last Updated: November 2nd, 2021
