From mountain biking across the rugged and beautiful Lake District, to shopping in historic Carlisle, the local area has plenty to offer. Just select a category on the left to find out more.
Activities & shopping
Geltsdale Brewery
Geltsdale Brewery produces popular local craft beer and has done since 2006, applying brewing methods that stretch back to 1785. As well as using the finest hops and malt, Geltsdale Brewery only source water from the Geltsdale Valley to create their tasty ales.
In 2013 the brewery moved to a location that has a bar for visitors to sample their ales. You can choose from a range of beers, including Cold Fell, the 2010 Solway Camra 'Ale of the Year'.
Brampton Golf Club
This wonderful golf club is found just 6 minutes from the pub and can be used by non-members, provided you book in advance. Described as a 'mini Gleneagles', the course has been in play since 1909, following a design by five-time Open winner, James Braid.
It's home to some of the most impressive sights available on a British course, with the Lake District's mountains, Northern Pennines and Southern Scotland all in view. There's also a comfortable clubhouse for post-round relaxation and on-site shop, selling mementos and other golfing paraphernalia.
Pony Trekking
Our surrounding countryside serves as a great backdrop for pony trekking. We can arrange a short lesson if you'd like to practice your riding skills, or even a full family ride should you be up for savouring a day of adventure across the fells. An experienced rider and member of staff comes along on every trek for safety and to act as a guide, while hats and other riding gear can be lent to anyone who's without.
Mountain Biking
We're surrounded by many cycle routes that wind through some breathtaking countryside.
Old railway lines, that were once used when coal was mined from the fells over 100 years ago, provide excellent tracks. They start behind The Belted Will and travel around the fells, all the way to Alston - linking the Coast to Coast Cycle Route.
You'll zip through historical interests such as Lord Carlisle's Railway (an old haunt of George Stephenson's famous rocket), Tindale Tarn (RSPB reserve) and several old coal and lead mines. Thanks to the pub's location, you can also discover what the has to offer with its raw, unique countryside.
We offer secure indoor storage for cycles too, and you can hire bikes from Eden's Lawn Garage in nearby Haltwhistle.
Carlisle
Known as The Border City, Carlisle has an important historical connection with the Romans. Sitting just 10 miles south of the Scottish border, the city is easily accessible by car along the A689. It tempts many visitors in each year with historically significant buildings and museums, as well as modern attractions.
Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery has a number of excellent permanent and temporary exhibitions honouring the city and its role along the Anglo-Scottish border.
The museum is connected to Carlisle Castle by the Millennium Subway, which is fascinating in itself as a 'listening wall' and gallery to more of the city's past. Once at the 11th century castle, you'll be sharing the same walls as Mary, Queen of Scots, who was once imprisoned there.
There's also the magnificent Carlisle Cathedral to go and see, dating from 1122 and featuring the largest Gothic style window in the whole of England. Evening prayer is held each night of the week during term time except Saturday's, with everyone welcome to attend the service.
Carlisle Racecourse, on its current site since 1904, is home to one of the oldest flat horse races in the world, dating back to 1599. It lists an extensive calendar of meetings throughout the season in case you fancy a flutter.
For those looking for contemporary culture, The Sands Centre plays host to orchestra, theatre, opera and ballet performances as well as comedians and gigs from international recording artists all year-round.
Angling
There's nothing quite like pitching up for a day's fishing and we've got plenty of spots for casting out a line in the local area.
The New Mills Trout Fishing Park covers 7 acres of luscious countryside, with a 1-acre fly fishing lake at its heart and a separate fun fishing pond for beginners to learn the ropes.
For anyone who's forgotten to pack their rod and tackle, not to worry, as the on-site tackle shop sells a range of fishing equipment to help you land some of the lake's rainbow, tiger, brown or blue trout.
You can also take a break from the fishing in their café, dishing up coffees, pastries and light-lunches - with fish taking pride of place on the menu.
Another picturesque venue is Naworth Fishery, set in the Naworth Castle Estate. It's home to a larger 7-acre lake and allows both fly and worm baited fishing but doesn't have a café or tackle shop on-site. For those who prefer river baiting, you can also take a short hop down to the rivers Eden, Irving or South Tyne for a serene fishing fix during your stay.
Walking & cycling
Birdoswald
A must for Roman history enthusiasts, Birdoswald's one of the original 16 forts built to defend the border. Incredibly well preserved, the fort adjourns a stretch of the wall for about 1/3 of a mile and has been the source of many compelling archaeological discoveries.
Inside, it has an engaging, interactive visitor centre that takes you through the history of Birdoswald. Over time, archaeological excavations have uncovered a unique basilica, granary buildings and the west gateway of the fort with its magnificent masonry.
Birdoswald also hosts events for adults and children alike throughout the year. And inside there's a tearoom and gift shop with an abundance of souvenirs.
Geltsdale Wildlife Reserve
Geltsdale forms the north-western fells of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It's home to many species of bird, such as; black grouse, birds of prey, merlin and curlew - making it a perfect location for avid birdwatchers and walkers.
There are 4 waymarked trails to take you through ancient woodland that accommodates an incredibly high density of veteran trees, some of which date right back to the 1600s. The reserve also provides a car park, information points and toilets for convenience.
Talkin Tarn
Just 4 miles from the Belted Will is Talkin Tarn, a country park where you can windsurf, fish, canoe or row on the 65 acre lake. You can also stroll around the path that outlines the tarn and enjoy a quaint woodland setting.
When you fancy a rest, the Boathouse Tea Room is perfect for putting your feet up. You can look over the picturesque view of the tarn and relax by a log fire. It also has a gift shop and hosts many events throughout the year.
Hadrian's Wall
Visitors to the area looking to take in some of the region's rich history need look no further than Hadrian's Wall. Enlisted on the World Heritage Register in 1987, it's one of the world's most important Roman sites. The wall is as well known for its elaborate construction and length as for the wonderful countryside that surrounds it for miles around.
If you're staying at The Belted Will Inn and planning on visiting the wall, we're more than happy to drive you there and pick you up afterwards.
We can also rustle up a hearty breakfast before departure and have your evening meal ready following the day's discoveries.
Mountain Biking
We're surrounded by many cycle routes that wind through some breathtaking countryside.
Old railway lines, that were once used when coal was mined from the fells over 100 years ago, provide excellent tracks. They start behind The Belted Will and travel around the fells, all the way to Alston - linking the Coast to Coast Cycle Route.
You'll zip through historical interests such as Lord Carlisle's Railway (an old haunt of George Stephenson's famous rocket), Tindale Tarn (RSPB reserve) and several old coal and lead mines. Thanks to the pub's location, you can also discover what the has to offer with its raw, unique countryside.
We offer secure indoor storage for cycles too, and you can hire bikes from Eden's Lawn Garage in nearby Haltwhistle.
Eden valley
Eden valley rests on the cusp of the Lake District. It's a tranquil, untouched retreat for those looking to relax and enjoy their surroundings. Set amidst striking scenery, the quiet country lanes and lush countryside villages are popular with cyclists, walkers, anglers and golfers alike.
The Settle to Carlisle railway line travels through Eden Valley and takes you on a journey through a host of local market towns. The River Eden itself is a generous source of salmon and trout, as well as providing picturesque routes for walkers.
Local history
Birdoswald
A must for Roman history enthusiasts, Birdoswald's one of the original 16 forts built to defend the border. Incredibly well preserved, the fort adjourns a stretch of the wall for about 1/3 of a mile and has been the source of many compelling archaeological discoveries.
Inside, it has an engaging, interactive visitor centre that takes you through the history of Birdoswald. Over time, archaeological excavations have uncovered a unique basilica, granary buildings and the west gateway of the fort with its magnificent masonry.
Birdoswald also hosts events for adults and children alike throughout the year. And inside there's a tearoom and gift shop with an abundance of souvenirs.
Hadrian's Wall
Visitors to the area looking to take in some of the region's rich history need look no further than Hadrian's Wall. Enlisted on the World Heritage Register in 1987, it's one of the world's most important Roman sites. The wall is as well known for its elaborate construction and length as for the wonderful countryside that surrounds it for miles around.
If you're staying at The Belted Will Inn and planning on visiting the wall, we're more than happy to drive you there and pick you up afterwards.
We can also rustle up a hearty breakfast before departure and have your evening meal ready following the day's discoveries.
Solway Aviation Museum
This is a fascinating place to visit for anyone with an interest in aviation, especially of British design and manufacture. Exhibitions show off the country's many aeronautical achievements and are great source of nostalgia for those keen on discovering the story of wartime Cumberland and those who served during World War Two.
The collection of planes features jets used by the Royal Air Force in the 1950s and 1960s, as well as other significant aircraft. Visitors can also uncover the story behind Britain's Cold War era Blue Streak rocket programme, as well as discovering the tales of civilian life at Carlisle Airport. There's even a working replica of the tower control room desk available to investigate.
Lanercost Priory
Lanercost Priory is an Anglican church founded in 1166 by Henry II. This historic and atmospheric establishment has witnessed war, dissolution and rejuvenation over a turbulent past that stretches across many centuries.
The priory still hosts services and has done for the best part of 850 years. Inside, you'll discover architecture from around 1200ad and a carved figure of Saint Mary Magdalene from approximately 1270ad. You'll also see many venerable stained glass windows, some of which are around 500 years old.
There are still the remains of the North and South Transepts, the Choir, the Sanctuary and the Cellarium to explore. Inside the ruins are several tombs, including that of Sir Thomas Dacre. Make sure to keep an eye out for events at the Priory that happen throughout the year.
Saint Martin's Church
Built in 1878, this is the only church to have been built by the architect, Philip Webb. It features a superb collection of stained-glass windows designed by Sir Edward Burne-Jones of the pre-Raphaelite period, which were manufactured by William Morris. It's always best to call ahead to make sure they're open, but you can be sure of a warm welcome on arrival at this historical, community church.