Discover the enchanting market town of Settle in North Yorkshire—a perfect blend of historic charm and natural beauty. As the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Settle invites you to wander its cobbled streets and enjoy its scenic, peaceful countryside.
Experience the vibrant weekly market, a tradition since 1249, offering everything from local produce to handmade crafts. Ideal for outdoor lovers, Settle is a haven for exploring rolling hills, moorlands, and picturesque valleys.
Whether you seek tranquility or adventure, Settle is your quintessential countryside retreat.
Things To Do In Settle
Discover Settle, a delightful gem in the Yorkshire Dales! Settle offers an array of activities, from exhilarating hikes to peaks with breathtaking views to leisurely walks along charming village streets.
If a relaxing day is more your style, enjoy a warm afternoon in one of the cozy local pubs.
Dive into our suggestions for the best things to do in Settle and kickstart your next adventure!
Facts About Settle
- Settle-Carlisle Railway: Known as one of the most scenic railway journeys in England, this historic line passes through stunning landscapes and features impressive engineering feats like the Ribblehead Viaduct.
- Victoria Hall: The oldest surviving music hall in the world, Victoria Hall hosts a wide variety of live performances, from concerts and theater to community events and workshops.
- Settle Market: Held every Tuesday in the town square, this bustling market offers everything from fresh local produce and meats to crafts and clothing, continuing a tradition that dates back to the 12th century.
- Scaleber Force Waterfall: Just a short drive from Settle, this beautiful waterfall cascades over limestone cliffs surrounded by woodland, making it a picturesque spot for nature lovers.
- Settle Hydro: An innovative community-owned hydroelectric scheme that uses the waters of the River Ribble to generate renewable energy, reflecting the town’s commitment to sustainability.
- Museum of North Craven Life at The Folly: Housed in a striking 17th-century building, the museum showcases the rich heritage of North Craven through exhibitions on rural life, geology, and local history.
- Hoffman Kiln at Langcliffe: One of the best-preserved examples of a Hoffman lime kiln in the UK, this impressive industrial relic is part of Settle’s limestone heritage, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area's industrial past.
- Castleberg Crag: A prominent limestone outcrop overlooking the town, Castleberg Crag offers a quick but rewarding climb with stunning views over Settle and beyond.
- Giggleswick Chapel: An architectural gem with its beautiful stained glass windows and wood carvings, located in the nearby village of Giggleswick, home to the historic Giggleswick School.
- Malham Cove: Nearby Malham Cove is a natural limestone formation that has been a magnet for visitors for centuries, featuring a dramatic cliff face and unique limestone pavement at the top.
- Attermire Scar: This dramatic limestone landscape near Settle offers challenging hikes through caves and past ancient settlements, with panoramic views across the Dales.
- Yorkshire Dales Falconry and Conservation Centre: Located close to Settle, this centre offers visitors the chance to see and learn about birds of prey in a natural setting.
- Three Peaks Challenge: Settle serves as a base for adventurers looking to tackle the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, a demanding 24.5-mile route that includes the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough.
- Settle Stories: An annual festival celebrating storytelling and the arts, featuring a variety of performances, workshops, and events that draw storytellers and audiences from around the world.
- Ribblehead Viaduct: Close to Settle, this iconic viaduct is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering, often visited on trips from Settle along the scenic railway.
Settle On The Map
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Frequently Asked Questions
The following subsections answer the most common inquiries about visiting Settle, providing essential information for potential visitors.
What are the top attractions to visit in Settle?
The town of Settle is renowned for its historical and natural attractions, including the Settle Signal Box where visitors can learn about railway history, and the Museum of North Craven Life housed in The Folly, a Grade I listed historic house.
What makes Settle a notable destination?
Settle stands out for its rich history, exemplified by its ancient market town status granted in the 13th century, and its scenic setting in the Yorkshire Dales, offering a picturesque and tranquil visitation experience.
What types of accommodation are available in Settle?
Visitors to Settle can choose from a range of accommodations, including quaint bed and breakfasts, traditional inns, and self-catering cottages that showcase the town's welcoming atmosphere and heritage.
Can you provide information on the Settle to Carlisle Railway experience?
The Settle to Carlisle Railway provides a spectacular journey through the Yorkshire Dales, with visitors experiencing breathtaking landscapes, heritage viaducts, and charming rural stations.
When is the Settle Market held and what can one expect there?
Settle Market takes place every Tuesday in the town square, where visitors can find a variety of stalls offering local produce, artisan products, and a genuine taste of the town's community spirit.
How does Settle compare to other towns in the Yorkshire Dales in terms of visitation?
Settle's unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty often draws visitors looking for a tranquil yet enriching rural escape, holding its own as a favoured destination among the towns in the Yorkshire Dales.
What Next?
Uncover Settle's charm! From thrilling hikes to cozy pubs, Settle is your perfect Yorkshire Dales adventure.
Start exploring today!