Syke House Alpacas About the Alpaca The Alpaca Centre E-mail Syke House	The Alpaca Centre Snuff Mill Lane, Stainton, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0HA Tel 01768 891440 FAX 01768 890557 Close to Lake Ullswater, this unique centre, set in rolling countryside, is a beautiful place to see alpacas and a chance to discover so much more... The Alpaca Centre is the only one of its type in Europe and has been developed to expand knowledge of the Alpaca, its products and its viability as a farm animal for fibre production. The centre is run by Joy and Garry Stevenson in association with Pat Bentley, who has been rearing and farming alpacas at nearby Syke House for over 15 years. The Alpaca Centre has grown in its first year alongside increasing interest in the alpaca and a fast growing appreciation of the value of alpaca fleece in garments. The Alpaca Centre has something to offera wide range of visitors, including: Those with just a general interest and a facination to know more Schools who wish to introduce children to alpacas or with a project in mind Agricultural, textile or veterinary students Those examining the possiblities of farming alpacas, and existing owners Visitors can view the alpacas from the edge of their paddock or from the tea room, whilst also enjoying tea or coffee and a slice of home made cake. In the shop and gallery, there is a wide variety of alpaca goods and clothing, paintings, sculptures and wood turnings of exceptional quality on display and for sale, including 'Spirit of the Andes', the leading European brand of handmade alpaca knitwear. Designed in the North of England and handmade in Peru using only the best quality alpaca wool, two 'Spirit of the Andes' collections 'with a difference', combining a simple sophistication with a touch of latin flair, are produced each year. All alpaca fibre clothing is suitable for everyone, even those who find it impossible to wear other fibres. For the prospective or existing alpaca owner, the Centre is an alpaca stud, with males carefully selected to bring in new blood and better quality, has alpacas for sale in increasing numbers, is a development centre for alpaca husbandry, and provides a shearing service. There is an upstairs room available for meetings, and interesting, non technical talks can be given by prior arrangement. The Centre also runs a series of one day Alpaca Management courses for prospective and new owners, more details of which can be found in our course programme. Providing a tranquil atmosphere, partially created by the haunting music of Peruvian pan pipes, together with the assurance of an interesting and enjoyable few hours, the Alpaca Centre is open: Easter to October 10.30am to 5/6pm - Closed Mondays except Bank Holiday Mondays Winter Weekends 10.30am - 4.30pm Weekdays - Please telephone first	The Alpaca Centre Location Courses Shop Newsletter