Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen
Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen
Highlight • Bridge
Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen
Hiking
5.0
(62)
Frank's Bridge is a historic, twin-arched stone footbridge gracefully spanning the River Eden in the charming market town of Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria. Situated at an elevation of 175 metres at the head of the picturesque Eden Valley, this Grade II scheduled monument serves as a significant local landmark. Its strategic location places it conveniently close to the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales, the rugged North Pennines, and the iconic Lake District, making it a popular starting point for many explorations.
Visitors consistently appreciate the blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty that Frank's Bridge offers. The area is celebrated for its pleasant riverside walks and the tranquil atmosphere of the Eden Valley. Many are drawn to the quaint character of Kirkby Stephen itself, a town noted for its independent shops, welcoming cafes, and the impressive Kirkby Stephen Parish Church, often referred to as the "Cathedral of the Dales." The bridge's connection to long-distance trails, including Wainwright's Coast to Coast route, also makes it a cherished spot for hikers.
Accessing Frank's Bridge is straightforward, as it's easily reachable from the Kirkby Stephen town centre. The terrain around the bridge is generally flat and suitable for family-friendly walks, making it an ideal spot for all ages. Parking is available within Kirkby Stephen, allowing for convenient access to the bridge and the various trails that begin here. For those planning a visit, comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the riverside paths.
Frank's Bridge is a delightful destination year-round, offering different charms with each season. It's particularly popular for family-friendly walks, with gentle riverside strolls along the River Eden where children often enjoy feeding the ducks. The bridge also forms part of wider networks like the Coast to Coast path, and several circular walks, including the Kirkby Stephen riverside walk, start directly from here. Families can also connect to the Kirkby Stephen Adventure Trail and Brough Family Buggy Walks, which are designed with younger explorers in mind.
The bridge holds fascinating historical details, such as the "coffin rests" at its end, which were used by pall-bearers centuries ago on their way to St. Stephen's Church. This unique feature provides a tangible link to the past and sparks interesting conversations. Local folklore also adds to the allure, with tales of "Jangling Annas," a ghost said to haunt the bridge. A picnic area adjacent to the bridge offers a perfect spot to relax and soak in the scenic surroundings after exploring.
Whether you're interested in a short, easy walk or looking to embark on longer adventures, Frank's Bridge serves as an excellent base. Explore the many family friendly walks near Frank's Bridge Kirkby Stephen, or discover the wider network of trails that connect to the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District. You can find a variety of routes for hikers and cyclists on komoot, helping you plan your perfect visit to this historic crossing.
Tips
January 13, 2021
Hiking
Wainwright's Coast to Coast passes through the town from the west, whilst Lady Anne's Way comes up from the south. A statue of Lady Anne stands in front of the visitor centre.
A hike up to Nine Standards Rigg is splendid, with terrific views from the top. Meanwhile, fans of Arthurian legend might fancy an amble south into the Vale of Mallerstang and the romantic ruins of Pendragon Castle.
August 26, 2023
Hiking
August 27, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen
4.8
(20)
138
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
45
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
41
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 180 m
Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
11°C
1°C
34 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best family-friendly walks starting from Frank's Bridge?
Frank's Bridge is an excellent starting point for family adventures. You can enjoy gentle riverside strolls along the River Eden, perfect for younger children and for feeding the ducks. For a more structured experience, the Kirkby Stephen riverside walk is a popular circular route that begins here. Additionally, the area connects to the Kirkby Stephen Adventure Trail and Brough Family Buggy Walks, which are specifically designed with families in mind and often feature engaging points of interest like carved poems on the Poetry Path.
Is Frank's Bridge accessible for prams or wheelchairs?
The immediate area around Frank's Bridge and the riverside paths are generally flat and suitable for prams and buggies. The intro mentions 'Brough Family Buggy Walks' are accessible from the area. However, the bridge itself is a narrow, stone-built packhorse bridge, so while pedestrian access is good, some of the wider trail networks might have varied terrain. For specific accessibility details on longer routes, it's always best to check individual trail descriptions.
Are dogs allowed on the trails around Frank's Bridge?
Yes, the trails around Frank's Bridge and Kirkby Stephen are generally dog-friendly. Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs along the riverside paths and on the wider network of trails. Please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock, and always clean up after your pet to help keep the area pleasant for everyone.
What parking options are available for visitors to Frank's Bridge?
Parking is readily available within Kirkby Stephen town centre, which is just a short walk from Frank's Bridge. While the intro states parking is available, it's worth noting that during peak seasons or busy weekends, spaces can fill up quickly. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a convenient spot.
What historical significance does Frank's Bridge hold?
Frank's Bridge is a Grade II scheduled monument dating back to the 17th century. It's particularly known for its 'coffin rests' at one end, which were used by pall-bearers to rest coffins during their journey from nearby villages to St. Stephen's Church in Kirkby Stephen. The bridge also has local folklore, including tales of a ghost known as 'Jangling Annas'.
Are there any cafes or pubs near Frank's Bridge for refreshments?
Yes, Frank's Bridge is located in Kirkby Stephen, a charming market town with a good selection of amenities. You'll find a number of independent shops, cafes, and pubs within easy walking distance of the bridge, perfect for grabbing a coffee, a meal, or a refreshing drink after your walk.
Is Frank's Bridge suitable for a winter hike, and what should I expect?
Frank's Bridge and its surroundings offer different charms in every season, including winter. The main paths along the river are generally accessible, but conditions can be icy or muddy. Expect colder temperatures and potentially shorter daylight hours. Always wear appropriate warm and waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear with good grip is essential. Some of the more exposed trails might be more challenging in snowy or icy conditions.
What other attractions or activities are available for families in Kirkby Stephen?
Beyond Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen offers a variety of family-friendly attractions. These include playgrounds, a soft play centre, and opportunities for spotting red squirrels. You can also try geocaching or visit nearby castles. The Upper Eden Visitor Centre provides free leaflets detailing numerous activities for children in the area, making it a great resource for planning your day.
Can you swim in the River Eden near Frank's Bridge?
While the River Eden flows under Frank's Bridge, there is no specific information indicating designated or recommended wild swimming spots directly at the bridge. The river can have strong currents and varying depths, and water quality can fluctuate. If considering wild swimming, always exercise extreme caution, be aware of local conditions, and prioritize safety.
What are the 'coffin rests' at Frank's Bridge?
The 'coffin rests' are stone slabs located at one end of Frank's Bridge. In the 17th century, when the bridge was built, they served a practical and poignant purpose. Pall-bearers would use these stones to rest coffins during their journey from nearby villages like Hartley and Winton to St. Stephen's Church in Kirkby Stephen, which was the main burial ground for the area.
Are there any viewpoints near Frank's Bridge offering scenic vistas?
While Frank's Bridge itself offers picturesque riverside views, for more expansive scenic vistas, you might consider a hike up to Nine Standards Rigg, which is accessible from Kirkby Stephen. This walk provides terrific views from the top, overlooking the Eden Valley and beyond. The area around Kirkby Stephen is also close to the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines, offering numerous opportunities for elevated viewpoints.