Orton lies at the foot of Orton Scar, which is one of the few remaining limestone plateaux in the country. It is also in the shadow of the magnificent How gill Fells, a distinctive cluster of hills that marks the boundary between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales.

"The How gill Fells are particularly distinctive. They are sleek and smooth, looking, at a distance, like velvet curtains in sunlight, like silken drapes at sunset; they are steep sided but gently domed, and beautiful in a way that few hilly areas are. Their soaring and sweeping lines are not interrupted by walls or fences, giving a splendid upland expanse of 'free range walking'"

…noted A.W.Wainwright . There is plenty to see and do in the village and surrounding area, other than sipping tea and enjoying sticky toffee pudding of course!

Since Orton was granted a market charter around 1275 by Edward I, it has been welcoming travellers and visitors. This history of welcome is evident in warmth of the people you meet here today. In 1658, Oliver Cromwell granted another charter for a weekly market and an annual Whitsun fair. Other fairs were added and sheep and cattle traded. The market today is as well loved as it has always been, with an abundance of fresh produce and crafts on sale.

The Lake District, the Eden Valley, and the Yorkshire Dales are all easily accessible from the village. Orton's splendid location is an ideal base for anybody wishing to explore the area. Orton itself has less than 300 permanent residents and has such a rural character that it simply evokes tranquillity and calm; it is timeless.

Orton's most famous inhabitant was George Whitehead who lived from1636-1723. He was one of the founders of the now well known Quaker Movement. He, like most Quakers of the time, was not popular and suffered imprisonment. He was instrumental in obtaining Quaker rights that were spelled out in the Quaker Magna Carta of 1696.

Nearby are many historic sites, trails and attractions to enjoy, including Eden Ostrich World and the Rheged Discovery Centre that offer plenty of fun for all the family. For all visitors though, Orton offers nature as its best attraction that is free to be enjoyed by everybody. From rare birds to even rarer wildlife, this part of the country is rich with beauty and surprises. Here at The New Village Tearooms, we call Orton home and will be delighted to share our local knowledge with you.