Where can you find a quirky golf course, glorious fell ponies and a pub dedicated to motoring memorabilia? Ravenstonedale in the Upper Eden valley near Sedbergh is the answer. This beautiful village is nestled in the northern Howgill Fells; an area which has been part of the Yorkshire Dales since the National Park expanded in 2016 but which still ignites debate over whether it is still in Cumbria or Westmorland (the historic county abolished in 1974).
For many people, this pocket of the Yorkshire Dales goes unnoticed yet it's well worth lingering longer here. The village itself has two lovely pubs and an 18-hole golf course which actually only has nine greens...
Nearby it’s worth walking into the surrounding countryside to see an animal that really deserves to be on these hills, the Fell pony. Defined by their long forelocks, voluminous manes and water repellent coat these ponies are synonymous with the areas of common land where farmers have grazing rights. With their resilience and hardiness, this ancient breed has survived on the fells since Pre-Roman times. The Cistercian monks used them as packhorses to move goods around and some say that the monastic preference for grey horses led to the colour being introduced into the breed.
Walk up Wild Boar Fell (so-called because the last wild boar to be killed was on these slopes) and you’ll see a number of inquisitive semi-feral Fell ponies coming towards you.
Alternatively there’s an easier stroll through wildflower meadows that brings you to the Fat Lamb Country Inn, a pub that first seems out on a limb but which has cornered a real following among motor enthusiasts. Crammed with motoring memorabilia and retro collectibles inside, the inn is a destination and stopping point for plenty of clubs – everything from Austin Healey owners through to tractor enthusiasts.
Words & Photos by Amanda Brown
