Cumbria GuruCumbria Guru
Staveley in Cumbria
A lively village at the gateway to Kentmere

Staveley

Staveley is an energetic south Lakes village with independent food, outdoor businesses and direct access to the Kentmere Valley, riverside paths and eastern fells.

Know before you go

Your guide to Staveley

Staveley is an energetic south Lakes village with independent food, outdoor businesses and direct access to the Kentmere Valley, riverside paths and eastern fells.

The rivers Kent and Gowan shaped Staveley’s industrial past, and former mill spaces now support shops, cafés and specialist businesses. The village retains a practical community feel while serving as a major starting point for walking and cycling.

Routes lead into Kentmere, onto nearby hills and along quieter lanes towards Windermere and Kendal. Staveley is ideal for visitors who want outdoor access, good local food and a rail connection without staying in a large resort.

Hand-picked locally

Top places in Staveley

View all places →
Nook BarStaveley
Bar

Nook Bar

A newly opened independent bar and kitchen in Staveley Mill Yard, taking over the former Hawkshead Brewery Beer Hall with f...

BarFood and DrinkNightlife
Practical planning

Make the most of Staveley

Quick answers for choosing when to go, shaping your stay and getting there without the guesswork.

01

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn are excellent for walking and cycling; summer has long days, while winter visits suit lower-level routes and village food stops.

02

Plan it well

Parking becomes busy at weekends, so consider arriving by train. Kentmere roads are narrow and parking in the valley is extremely limited. Prepare properly for longer fell routes and respect farms and residents.

03

Getting there

Staveley is on the A591 between Kendal and Windermere and has a station on the Windermere branch line. Regular buses also serve the village, supporting car-free visits.

Guide checked and reviewed July 2026Local details can change, so check live travel and opening information before setting off.
Local knowledge makes this better

Know a hidden gem?

Tell us about a brilliant Cumbria place we may have missed. Every suggestion is checked before publication.

Share a hidden gem →