For those unfamiliar with the Howgills, this compact, well-defined upland range rises to more than 2000 feet. Walking among them is a delight – they are largely undiscovered.
Scattered in the hills around Kelleth Old Hall are lime-kilns; the Gamelands Stone Circle is not far; the dramatic Orton Scar which leads to Appleby, home of the annual Gipsy Fair, is a walk away. Ravenstonedale has an excellent pub; the viaduct at Smardale is an architectural wonder; there are Roman ruins to be found all around Appleby; and the amazing ruined Lowther Castle with its 17th century gardens is a 25-minute drive. If you are willing to travel a bit further, the Lake District offers a heap of tourist pleasures, as do the Dales. Cycling in the lanes around Kelleth is taxing at times but the views north, south, east and west are all spectacular.
Kelleth means head of spring and can be found on old maps transcribed as Killah. First mention of the hamlet seems to revolve around a 12th century nobleman
by the splendid name of Alan de Keldelyth.
