Brough – An Historical Town – well worth a visit

Brough is divided (by the A66) into Church Brough and Market Brough and has a long history dating from Roman times. The site of the Roman fort, Verteris, can be seen adjacent to the remains of Brough castle (pre-conquest) in Church Brough. The castle gifted by King John as part of the Barony of Appleby, is now mostly remembered as forming part of the estate of Lady Anne Clifford, a wealthy 17th Century landowner and unusually independent woman. She inherited titles, estates (including Brough) and money from her father, 3rd Earl of Cumberland, her first husband, the 3rd Earl of Dorset and her second husband, the 4th Earl of Pembroke. 

The Church of St Michael’s, for which Church Brough is named dates from the 12th Century, and contains the heaviest ring of 4 bells in the world (verified in 2023 when the bells were removed for refurbishment). Market Brough (also known as Brough-under-Stainmore) was recognised by its later toponym due its Thursday market, for which it was granted its charter by Edward 3rd in 1330. 

Brough became an important coaching stop during the 18th and 19th Centuries, once having upward of 10 coaching inns. The town is now home to two public houses and served by two cafes, a convenience store and a post office.