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MARKET TOWNS

They each have something unique to offer up.

Throughout the Yorkshire Dales, market towns have been the heart of the local communities for centuries. Where once they thronged with sheep and cattle for sale, they are now pretty enclaves flourishing with independent shops and eateries.


Bentham Our home town of Bentham is the most westerly town of North Yorkshire. Alongside the Yorkshire Dales National Park, it is also a gateway to the Forest of Bowland. Located on both the Way of the Roses and Land’s End to John o’Groats cycle routes, it’s a great place for an overnight stay on those adventures. Kirkby Lonsdale A short drive north up the A65, alongside the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, Kirkby Lonsdale is a picturesque town bustling with boutique shops, quirky cafes, great pub food and an AA two rosette restaurant. Kirkby was used in 2018 for filming the latest Doctor Doolittle film.Head to Devil’s Bridge, a Grade 1 listed structure crossing the river Lune, for a family picnic or walk along the riverbank. Settle In Upper Ribblesdale, Settle is a vibrant working town with a market on Tuesdays. It’s full of fascinating buildings, quirky courtyards and warren of narrow alleys between the interesting shops. The town is famous for the picturesque Settle to Carlisle railway, which traverses the magnificent Ribblehead Viaduct, the making of which was featured in the TV drama series Jericho.

Hawes Just 30 minutes’ sensational drive from the park, winding through Ingleton and along past the Ribblehead viaduct, Hawes in Upper Wensleydale is England’s highest market town at 850 feet above sea level. Discover the Dales Countryside Museum, enjoy the spectacular local walking routes or try the geocaching hunt through the town and surrounding countryside. For cheese fans and families looking for ‘cracking cheese, Grommit’ entertainment, the award-winning The Wensleydale Creamery guides you through the history of cheese making and offers you the opportunity to taste and see this world famous Yorkshire cheese being made. Visit Hardraw Force nearby to see England’s highest single drop waterfall. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on hello@wenningdale.co.uk for more information about places to visit when staying at Wenningdale Escapes.