The intriguing history and heritage of the area in and around Shap is being highlighted thanks to a partnership between Westmorland and Furness Council and the parish council.
A new leaflet will help promote the lovely area in and around the village to both visitors and locals.
The leaflet, produced with input from members of the community and coordination and financial contributions from Westmorland and Furness Council and Shap Parish Council, features the fascinating history and heritage of the village, places of interest and the many walking and cycling opportunities and will be a great starting point for visitors wanting to learn more about the area.
For example, have you heard of the Goggleby Stone (a stone from the megalithic avenue which can be seen on the footpath to Keld) or did you know that the Shap polished pink granite can be found throughout the country, including outside St Paul’s Cathedral in London? Wainwright's coast-to-coast long distance walk also passes through the area, along with the Westmorland Way and Millers Way walks.
Jessica Goodfellow from the Economic Development and Regeneration team at Westmorland and Furness Council said: “This is a really positive local initiative and demonstrates the importance of working with our local communities. The leaflet will actively promote the Shap area and encourage new visitors to stay longer, take time to explore and enjoy the local cafes and pubs. It’s a positive step in attracting visitors to the more rural parts of our area so helping to reduce some of the pressures from the honey pot areas.”
"We know the community is justly proud of the village and beauty of the surrounding area as well as the heritage and history which they are keen to share with visitors and hope to encourage them to stay longer and support and buy local," she added.
The leaflet is the latest in a series of town leaflets which cover Appleby, Penrith, Kirkby Stephen, Alston and Orton and Tebay. Leaflets are available from local Tourist Information Centres.
Westmorland and Furness Council is currently developing their visitor economy service plan as part of a wider economic development and regeneration plan. An important part of the plan will be local area promotion and delivery, working with businesses and the wider local community to maximise the potential of the area both as a place to visit, live and work.
Copies of the leaflet are available from The Old Courthouse, Shap. Click here to email The Old Courthouse about the leaflet.