Our Lady of Appleby R C Church

The brick Victorian church sitting on the corner of Appleby-in-Westmorland's main street doesn't announce itself loudly, but it's worth a quick visit if you're passing through this proper Pennine market town. Our Lady of Appleby is a Roman Catholic church built in the 1800s - solid red brick architecture that feels honest and unpretentious, quite different from the grander Anglican churches you'll see elsewhere in Cumbria.

Inside, there's decent stained glass and the usual ecclesiastical calm. It won't take you more than fifteen minutes to have a look round, though if you're interested in Victorian Catholic heritage in the North West, the details reward a closer inspection. The church sits handily near Appleby's castle and high street, so it's easy to slot into a walking route around the town.

This is really one for people with a specific interest in religious architecture or local history rather than a destination in itself. If you're staying at Wild Rose Holiday Park just down the road, it's worth popping into town for an hour or two anyway - the cobbled streets are pleasant enough and there's a proper tea room or two - so you might as well spend ten minutes in here while you're at it.

Admission appears to be free, and it's open during standard church hours, though it's worth checking ahead if you're making a special trip. The church is quiet and welcoming, but don't expect grand monuments or famous artwork.