Frank’s Bridge – Kirkby Stephen
Why is Frank’s Bridge in Kirkby Stephen famous, and is it really haunted?
Walkers love Kirkby Stephen, a traditional market town surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Eden Valley and the North Pennines.
At a Glance
- Location: Kirkby Stephen, edge of the North Pennines, Eden Valley
- What it is: A 17th-century packhorse bridge over the River Eden
- History: Once used as a coffin route from Winton and Hartley — resting stones are still visible at the far end
- Legend: Said to be haunted by “Jangling Annas,” a chained prisoner who drowned trying to escape Hartley Castle
- Nearby walks: Great base for exploring the Nine Standards Rigg and Wainwright’s coast-to-coast route
- Distance from your stay: ~40 minutes by car from Kents Bank Holiday Cottage, Grange-over-Sands
- Good to know: Pet-friendly holiday accommodation nearby — call 07785944194 or visit www.kentsbankholiday.co.uk to book
In fact, Kirkby Stephen should really be as popular as Ambleside or Keswick, given the fantastic walks on its doorstep.
It is also known as a stopping-off point for walkers doing Wainwright’s Coast to Coast route.
Additionally, there are some lovely walks in and around the town.
One of the closest and most interesting is Frank’s Bridge, which spans the River Eden.
Built in the 17th century, the bridge was used for transporting coffins from the nearby hamlets of Winton and Hartley.
Stones (at the far end of the bridge) can still be seen where the coffins could be rested on route.
Legend has it that a ghost called “Jangling Annas” is supposed to haunt the bridge by jangling her chains.
She is said to have been a prisoner at nearby Hartley Castle who escaped in her chains and drowned in the river.
Although nobody knows how much truth lies behind the story, local folklore says visitors sometimes hear the faint sound of chains on quiet evenings.
Whether you believe the tale or not, it certainly adds to the atmosphere.
Frank’s Bridge is particularly photogenic in autumn when the surrounding trees turn gold and the River Eden reflects the colours beneath the old stone arches.
How to Find Frank’s Bridge
Frank’s Bridge is just a few minutes’ walk from Kirkby Stephen Market Square. Follow the signs towards the River Eden and you’ll soon reach the historic bridge, making it an easy addition to any visit to the town.
Where to Stay
Frank’s Bridge makes an enjoyable stop on a day trip through the Eden Valley.
From Kents Bank Holiday Cottage in Kents Bank, the drive takes around 40–45 minutes through some of Cumbria’s most beautiful countryside, making it easy to combine with a visit to Kirkby Stephen, Pendragon Castle or Nine Standards Rigg.
Kirkby Stephen is 40 minutes by car from Kents Bank Holiday Cottage in Grange-over-Sands.
If you are looking for a pet-friendly holiday cottage with easy access to Kirkby Stephen, look no further, ring 07785944194 or Enquire here.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1) Where is Frank’s Bridge located?
Frank’s Bridge is in Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria, spanning the River Eden on the edge of the North Pennines.
2) What is the history behind Frank’s Bridge?
The bridge dates back to the 17th century and was originally used as a coffin route, carrying the deceased from the nearby hamlets of Winton and Hartley for burial. Resting stones, where coffins were placed along the way, can still be seen at the far end of the bridge today.
3) Is Frank’s Bridge really haunted?
Local legend says so. The bridge is said to be haunted by “Jangling Annas,” the ghost of a prisoner who escaped from Hartley Castle while still in her chains and drowned in the River Eden nearby.
4) Is Kirkby Stephen a good base for walking holidays?
Yes — Kirkby Stephen sits right on Wainwright‘s coast-to-coast route and is surrounded by excellent walks, including Nine Standards Rigg. Many visitors believe it deserves the same recognition as Ambleside or Keswick for its walking opportunities.
5) Where can I stay near Kirkby Stephen?
Kents Bank Holiday Cottage in Grange-over-Sands is around 40 minutes by car from Kirkby Stephen and offers pet-friendly accommodation. Call 07785944194 or visit www.kentsbankholiday.co.uk to check availability.
How to Book Kents Bank Holiday Cottage in Grange-over-Sands, Lake District
Booking Kents Bank Holiday Cottage is quick and simple. Just visit our website at kentsbankholiday.co.uk or give us a call at 07785944194.
We’re always happy to answer your questions and help you plan your Lake District break near Cartmel and Grange-over-Sands.
Our friendly team makes the whole process easy, so you can focus on looking forward to your relaxing holiday near Cartmel and Grange-over-Sands.