BLINK and you might miss Milnthorpe and Heversham, while heading up the A6 to the delights of the Lake District, Take the time to stop and park the car, however, and you will find two South Lakeland gems, each worthy of a visit in their own right.

The market town of Milnthorpe was once a port on the banks of the River Bela and also had a strategically important role as a stopping-off point on the A6 when it was the main south to north route.

Milnthorpe's market history dates back to medieval times, and, with the exception of Kendal, it was the most important community in the area. Careful observation can still reveal traces of the town's history.

Shoppers can also take advantage of Milnthorpe's variety of interesting shops, centred and the bustling market square.

Neighbouring Heversham is a pretty village. Its population of around 500 is centred on the parish church of St Peter's, the oldest recorded church in the former county of Westmorland.

In Leasgill, which lies snug against Heversham's northern edge, a former penny library, called the Athenaeum, was bequeathed to the community by a Liverpool shipping magnate. It is now both Heversham and Leasgill's village hall.

The villages are surrounded by beautiful countryside and there is plenty to see and do.

Main attractions...

If you watch TV costume dramas then you have probably seen nearby historic Levens Hall, with its famous topiary gardens. Take a visit and find out just why the building and grounds are such a draw for locals, visitors and film crews.

Not to be missed is the Lakeland Wildlife Oasis, to be found south of Milnthorpe, on the A6. As well as a discovery centre following 3,000 million years of evolution, you can get close to butterflies; birds; bats; lizards; lemurs; monkeys; meerkats; and snakes.

Dallam Tower lies just west of Milnthorpe; a beautiful stately home built to repel incursions from the Scots. The estate includes a 17th Century deer park with a herd of fallow deer, and ornamental gardens. Only the grounds are open to the public.

And if it's wet...

L Heron Corn Mill, which again can be found just south of Milnthorpe off the A6, is one of a few working mills in the area. As well as a fascinating insight into the history of milling at the site, the attraction is also home to the Museum of Papermaking. For details, call 015395-65027.

Walks...

Long - Try ascending the highest fell in the area, St Anthony's Hill, behind Milnthorpe. It is home to a folly tower, called the Summer House, built to commemorate the Reform Bill of 1832.

Short - For a shorter walk, have a stroll through Dallam Park and into Beetham. Stop for refreshments in the village there, and stroll back along the footpath at the side of the A6 to return to Milnthorpe.

For more information: call Kendal Tourist Information Centre on 01539-725758.