Beneath this pretty Georgian village, with its green, maypole and stocks, lie extensive Roman remains. The walled city of Isurium Brigantum was built on this site in AD71 and pieces of metalwork, coins, pottery, glassware and tessellated pavements can be seen in the museum.

 

 

In coaching times Boroughbridge was an important posting point on the Great North Road halfway between London and Edinburgh. An intriguing mixture of Regency, Georgian and Victorian architecture with an elaborate fountain dominating St. James Square. Nearby are the legendary Devil's Arrows, 3 massive stone monoliths dating from 2000-1500BC. The largest is 30ft high. More information on Boroughbridge (opens in new window).

 

 

Masham, a country market town in the north of the District, is home to two of the finest traditional breweries in Yorkshire - Theakston and Black Sheep. On the edge of the large market place is the beautiful 11th-century Church of St. Mary. 

 

There is a large recreation area alongside the picturesque River Ure, and the town holds a Steam Engine and Fair Organ Rally each July and the Sheep Fair is held in September. An ideal base from which to explore nearby Wensleydale. More information on Masham (opens in new window).

 

Thriving Dales town at the heart of Nidderdale with a steep high street with tea rooms, craft centres and shops. The Nidderdale Museum, in an original Victorian workhouse, portrays the life of early Dalesfolk. Children's playground and riverside walks. The Nidderdale Festival is held in late June / early July and the Nidderdale Show is in September. More information on Pateley Bridge (opens in new window).

 

 

Ripley Castle, home to the Ingilby family for over 600 years, stands in the heart of this pretty little estate village, one of the last surviving ones in England. Visit the Castle and its gardens, then the stocks and weeping cross in the churchyard of All Saints (1400) and the speciality shops, and stop in at the Boars Head for a bite to eat. More information on Ripley Castle (opens in new window).

 

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