All are within an hour’s drive and offer a delightful mix of history, independent shops, scenic walks, traditional markets, and warm Yorkshire hospitality.
Here’s our handpicked itinerary of the prettiest market towns to visit during your stay — ordered by driving time and complete with suggestions for what to see and do in each:
Hawes
Approx. 5 minutes
A lively Dales town and one of the highest in England, full of character and countryside views.
What to see and do:
- Wensleydale Creamery – Watch traditional cheese-making and sample award-winning cheeses.
- Hawes Market (Tuesdays) – A great place to pick up local produce and crafts.
- Independent Shops And Cafes – Explore galleries, boutiques, outdoor stores, and cosy spots to refuel
- Hardraw Force –Visit England’s tallest single-drop waterfall (above ground), just a short walk or drive away.
- Dales Countryside Museum – Fascinating insight into local rural life and heritage.
Leyburn
Approx. 30 minutes
A welcoming market town with sweeping views and a strong sense of local life.
What to see and do:
- Leyburn Shawl Walk – A scenic walk with panoramic views over Wensleydale.
- Campbell’s of Leyburn – Legendary independent food hall and wine merchant.
- Friday Market – Traditional open-air market in the town square.
- Tennants Auctioneers – One of the UK’s leading auction houses, with fascinating exhibitions and events, as well as a café and restaurant.
- Harmby Waterfall – A short walk from town to a peaceful hidden cascade.
Middleham
Approx. 32 minutes
A town of kings and racehorses, full of charm and history.
What to see and do:
- Middleham Castle – Explore the impressive ruins, once home to Richard III.
- Racehorse spotting – Early risers can often see horses being exercised through town.
- The Forbidden Corner (nearby) – A magical and quirky maze attraction, great for families.
Reeth
Approx. 35 minutes
A quieter, soulful village nestled in dramatic Swaledale countryside.
What to see and do:
- The Village Green – A large open green perfect for relaxing.
- Swaledale Museum – Focused on local traditions and the area’s lead mining past.
- Walk to Grinton Church – A lovely, historic walk to the “Cathedral of the Dales.”
- Local craft shops & tearooms – Ideal for a laid-back afternoon browse.
Richmond
Approx. 40 minutes
Historic and grand, Richmond is packed with things to explore.
What to see and do:
- Richmond Castle – An iconic Norman fortress with amazing views.
- The Station – A restored railway building with a café, art gallery, and local food shops.
- Richmond Falls – Lovely riverside spot for a walk or photo.
- Georgian Theatre Royal – One of Britain’s oldest working theatres.
Masham
Approx. 45 minutes
A friendly town known for its breweries, arts, and lively market square.
What to see and do:
- Black Sheep Brewery & Visitor Centre – Take a tour and enjoy a pint.
- Masham Market (Wednesdays & Saturdays) – Ideal for local crafts and Yorkshire produce.
- Uredale Glass & Masham Gallery – Discover handmade glasswork and local art.
- Riverside walks – Peaceful paths along the River Ure.
Bedale
Approx. 50 minutes
Small and stylish, with Georgian charm and lots to enjoy at a gentle pace.
What to see and do:
- Tuesday Market – Classic Yorkshire market day atmosphere.
- Bedale Museum – Explore local history in a traditional setting.
- Heritage Railway – Take a ride or visit the station on the Wensleydale Railway.
- Canal and Park Walks – Lovely picnic spots and quiet paths.
Grassington
Approx. 55 minutes
Picture-perfect and full of character, Grassington is a Dales gem.
What to see and do:
- Grassington Square – A hub of boutique shops, galleries, and tearooms.
- Linton Falls – Beautiful natural falls just a short walk from the village.
- Dales National Park Centre – Great for maps and walking information.
- TV fans take note – The village stars as ‘Darrowby’ in All Creatures Great and Small.
Ripon
Approx. 1 hour
England’s smallest city, with a market town heart and a beautiful setting.
What to see and do:
- Ripon Cathedral – An awe-inspiring site with over 1,300 years of history.
- Thursday Market – Lively and filled with local produce and artisan goods.
- Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal – Stunning World Heritage site just outside town.
- Canal and River Walks – Peaceful trails through green open spaces.
Pateley Bridge
Approx. 1 hour & 15 minutes
A quaint town nestled in Nidderdale, full of old-fashioned charm and scenic views.
What to see and do:
- The Oldest Sweet Shop in England – A must-visit for traditional treats.
- Nidderdale Museum – A delightful small museum of rural Yorkshire life.
- River Nidd Walks – Pretty routes right from the town centre.
- Toft Gate Barn Café – Excellent views and homemade fare just up the hill.
Tips for Planning Your Day Out
- Market Days:
- Tuesdays: Hawes, Bedale
- Thursdays: Ripon
- Fridays: Leyburn
- Saturdays: Richmond, Masham
- Let us pack you a picnic!
We offer fresh picnics for guests heading out for the day – just ask one of our team the day before.
- Ask us for maps or directions
We’re happy to help with walking routes, sat-nav details, or scenic drive suggestions.
- Dog-friendly options available
All of these towns (and their pubs!) are very welcoming to four-legged guests.
Let Yorkshire’s Market Towns Win You Over
Whether you’re in the mood for heritage, shopping, walking, or simply soaking in the views, these market towns offer the very best of rural Yorkshire. Take your time, enjoy the journey – and let us help you plan the perfect route.
