25 Best Things To Do In Settle (Yorkshire, England)
Are you looking for the best things to do in Settle, Yorkshire? In the Yorkshire Dales, Settle is one of England’s most charming market towns. It makes the perfect destination to visit and explore when you’re looking for things to do in Settle (Yorkshire, England).
From historical monuments to natural beauty and culinary delights to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Settle for your next vacation or business trip.
With this guide on fun things to do in Settle, you’ll have an amazing time no matter what time of year you visit!
What are the Best Things To Do In Settle (Yorkshire, England)
#1. Settle Tourist Information Centre
The Tourist Information Centre also has maps and leaflets available if you have any questions about what to see or do while in Settle and its surrounding areas. They can provide all of that information for you.
While at The Tourist Information Centre, you can collect an Official Welcome Pack, which contains everything you need for your visit, from menus for restaurants and pubs to shopping lists with map routes.
They also have a guided walking tour leaflet detailing nine walks from 30 minutes to 4 hours around the Upper Wharfedale Valley and ‘Walks with Attitude’, harder mountain hikes around Wharfedale, Airedale, and Wensleydale valleys.
Address: Town Hall, Settle BD24 9EJ, United Kingdom
#2. Hoffmann Kiln – Craven Lime Works
Head up to Hoffmann Kiln – Craven Lime Works in Settle to step back into history. The site was first recorded around 1770 by Heinrich Hoffmann, who bought lime kilns on Bridge Street.
In 1821 his son-in-law Henry Hawley moved them upstream and converted them into what is believed to be Europe’s oldest working multi-kiln set up the lime burning plant.
It is one of only three sites in Britain where a complete 19th-century lime production sequence can be seen and was built using traditional methods using local materials.
There are guided tours for individuals or groups and talks about its history. Be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Settle, Yorkshire.
#3. Stainforth Force
In 1874, a tiny village built a dam across a small river in northern England. The hamlet of Stainforth called it their main source of water.
But over time, they learned that by cutting into their reservoir’s dam, they could generate hydroelectric power at no cost—power which helped fuel industry around London.
While today it looks like an abandoned relic from another era, make sure you check out Stainforth Force.
It is a great place for hiking and swimming. Still, it serves as an incredible reminder that where there’s trouble (damaging your ecosystem), there might also be an opportunity (to build something better).
It curls over some small steps before falling into a huge pool, providing a magnificent waterfalls display.
You might stay on the river’s edges to watch leaping salmon, looking upriver to a small stone bridge connecting the settlement and a caravan park concealed behind the trees.
Address: Settle BD24 9LS, United Kingdom
#4. Ingleborough
This towering peak is one of Northern England’s best-known landmarks and sits on our doorstep. It provides spectacular views from its summit and walking routes that last for hours.
You can either walk up or drive to the top (there are parking spaces), so if you’re looking for an activity that involves a bit of exercise but doesn’t require much time, Ingleborough is your hill!
Enjoy 360-degree views over one of Northern England’s most stunning landscapes. A visit here will give you insight into what made Wordsworth fall in love with ‘nature’s green handiwork’.
Then head back down to explore more of Settle. From there, we recommend taking a trip out. Be sure to add Ingleborough to your things to do in Settle, Yorkshire.
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#5. Listening Gallery
Do you ever visit a gallery just for its listening qualities? You probably won’t get that from a performance at 8:00 on a Tuesday night.
Art galleries are wonderful places to visit and spend time because of what you experience through your other senses. Well, that and all those pretty colors!
The Listening Gallery is located inside St. John’s Churchyard (Settle). The space is often rented out for solo performers who play their music by candlelight.
When it isn’t being used for performances (or if there aren’t any scheduled), you can pop in anytime to sit on one pew and listen.
It’s a great space where time seems to stand still while surrounded by so much history. As a bonus, admission is free!
Address: Settle BD24 9DN, United Kingdom
#6. Norber Erratics
Walking around Settle can be a delight for those with a geological eye as it is peppered with quite a few ‘Norber erratics‘. These are boulders that were deposited when glaciers melted away.
Some weigh several tonnes, and they can often be found sitting by walls or on top of other rocks. The most famous one is near Hanlith Wood and is called ‘Tom Pudding’ there’s even an access road built so people can visit it without disturbing farmers’ fields.
Some have suggested that our prehistoric ancestors used these blocks as weapons or standing stones. Several erratics (boulders left by glaciers that have been carried a long distance) have been placed near or on Norber Hill.
These can be accessed via a short walk from Norber village itself. If you are interested in these, there is also a lookout on top of Norber Hill, which can be reached via an easy climb. The view from up here is rather good!
#7. The Courtyard, Settle
If you’re looking for somewhere to eat or drink after a long day exploring, A Courtyard is a perfect option. A gastropub serving creative and delicious food and drink. The Courtyard has a friendly and charming atmosphere that can only be found in small towns like Settle.
The food is high quality, not something you would normally expect from a small town. There are vegetarian options (which are not usually common outside major cities), including many vegetarian main courses with creative sides; vegetarian meals are marked on their menu.
If you’re looking for more than just food and drinks, they also have karaoke on Thursday nights, the perfect end to an evening out.
#8. Museum of North Craven Life at The Folly
The Museum of North Craven Life at The Folly is great for a family day out. There’s plenty to see and activities for children of all ages.
Plan your visit around one of their events, such as It’s a Kitten’s World or The Extreme Animals. Check out their website for more information on these and other events during your trip to Settle.
After extensive renovations, the museum has recently re-opened, so it looks better than ever! Great things do come in small packages!
Address: Victoria St, Settle BD24 9EY, United Kingdom
#9. Settle Signal Box museum
Go no further than the Settle Signal Box museum for a hands-on approach to local history. Step inside for a tour or ask about special events; the museum is also open on select weekends.
You can enjoy views across several miles of the countryside; keep an eye out for trains passing by on adjacent tracks.
If you’re looking for things to do in Settle and have a love of museums or history, don’t miss it!
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#10. Settle Riverside Walk
The River Ribble flows through Settle, and although there are no riverside walks directly accessible from town, you can find a beautiful walk by parking just outside of town and walking along Riverside Road.
This path follows beside The River Ribble and is covered with trees. There are several benches placed here where you can stop and enjoy your surroundings.
It’s a wonderful walk to take at any time of year, but it’s especially nice during summertime as you’ll be able to spot nature’s colourful blooms near The Riverside Garden Nursery.
The nursery covers about one acre of land and is home to plants, including roses, fuchsias, cacti, etc.
Just down from here, you’ll also see Campion Farm, which offers over three acres of farmland for visitors to explore. This is among the best places to visit in Settle, Yorkshire.
#11. Settle Station Water Tower
At the Settle Station in Maryland, a former water tower has been turned into a house. It would have been lit up at night to aid navigation in its heyday.
Nowadays, you can visit it, and there are plans to turn it into a visitor attraction – it’s currently run by volunteers who let people climb up through an old lift shaft that is way too narrow for most modern tastes!
Cost: Free! The only one! Access: The railway station where you catch a train from Skipton to Settle. When you arrive from Skipton, turn left out of platform one and walk over the railway bridge with the water tower on top. It’s about 50m away on your right-hand side.
Address: Station, Settle BD24 9FJ, United Kingdom
#12. The Joinery
The Joinery is a charming theater on Oakland Street that offers a variety of live performances. Some recent favourites include Robin Ince and Emma Kennedy.
The theater is known for producing cutting-edge plays focusing on developing young talent. If you’re looking for an intimate night out or want something different from your typical big-name concert experience, check out The Joinery Theater in Settle.
You won’t be disappointed!
Address: 17 Mill Cl, Settle BD24 9BY, United Kingdom
#13. The Courtyard Dairy
If you’re hungry for some delicious ice cream or shakes, head to The Courtyard Dairy. They have a wide selection of speciality flavors like lavender and strawberry cheesecake, which is not to be missed!
Check out their milkshakes while you’re there; they are delicious! But make sure you don’t get there until after dinner because they can be quite filling.
Please don’t say we didn’t warn you! It would be best if you also considered getting an ice cream cake from here for your next party. Your guests will be blown away by how good it tastes and will probably wonder if it was homemade.
Address: Crows Nest Barn Near Settle, Austwick LA2 8AS, United Kingdom
#14. Victoria Hall
This 19th-century monument, made in Settle, is used for various purposes by the locals. Established in 1853, the Victoria Hall, previously known as the Settle Music Hall, is the oldest music hall in the UK.
Other than Sunday, every day of the week has various things going on. Dance classes, exercise programs, adult learning, and markets on Tuesday and Saturday all come to mind.
Once the evening arrives, this esteemed theater hosts a cornucopia of live music, storytelling, live screening of live programs from important cultural centers, plays, and stand-up comedy.
Address: Kirkgate, Settle BD24 9DZ, United Kingdom
#15. Scaleber Force
Another captivating waterfall can be found in the lonely hills of the Yorkshire Dales, bordered by stone walls.
This tributary’s water is clean and clear, and those feeling adventurous will be able to make their way up (within reason) the geological rock to get a better view of the falls.
Located near High Hill Lane along a woodland route, Scaleber Force is only a few minutes’ walk away. You can also visit other nearby sights, such as Rombalds Moor and Birkwith.
The best time of year to visit Scaleber Force is between April and September, when fewer tourists are around, and it’s easier to access these places of natural beauty.
Address: High Hill Ln, Skipton BD24 9LA, United Kingdom
#16. Victoria Cave
This circular 4.5-mile trail through Highland cattle land leads to this cave, easily accomplished in the morning.
The cave was named after Queen Victoria, as it was found in 1837, her first year on the throne. Travelling out of Settle is such a pleasure. You pass by picturesque Georgian homes on Constitution Hill.
The path goes steeply downhill outside of town, but Ribblesdale’s breathtaking views are an excellent motivation.
From 130,000 years ago to the present day, bones of elephants, hippos, rhinos, and hyenas have been discovered at Victoria Cave.
At the Victoria Cave, a harpoon point, evidence of early humans in the Yorkshire Dales, was found. It was fascinating, with other Roman-era artefacts such as coins, ceramics, and brooches.
Address: Langcliffe, Settle BD24 9PZ, United Kingdom
#17. Yorkshire Dales Guides
The Yorkshire Dales is a place of stunning beauty and one of Britain’s most beautiful national parks. If you’re planning a trip there to take in all it offers, consider hiring one of Yorkshire Dales Guides.
They specialize in offering guided walking tours throughout some of England’s most scenic landscapes. Whether you want to go on a small group tour or have a private guide show you around, YDG has options for every traveller.
Their guides are knowledgeable and passionate about their work, ensuring that your trip is both fun and educational (in addition to being beautiful).
All YDG tours are fully customizable; choose from several different day tours or book ahead for an overnight stay at one of their approved accommodations.
Address: Hornby Laithe, Stainforth, Settle BD21 9PB, United Kingdom
#18. Settle-Carlisle Railway
The Settle-Carlisle Line is a railway line in Northern England that runs for 65 miles (105 km) from Leeds to Carlisle.
The line follows mainly a north-south route through beautiful countryside and is extremely popular with steam enthusiasts due to its steep gradients and sharp curves.
The line is also popular with cyclists, walkers, and horse riders. However, public transport on the line had been limited until 2005, when Barrow Hill Roundhouse became home to a small community of locally-based residents with around 5 million passengers now travelling on it each year.
Better yet, it’s still considered to be part of National Rail’s mainline so that you can board a regular train for one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world.
If you visit the steam train at Settle Junction Station on a Saturday, stop in the Victorian timber signal box.
#19. Janet’s Foss
This small waterfall is easily accessible from Janet’s Foss Country Park. You can take a circular route around Janet’s Foss and explore some interesting cave systems and rock formations.
On a hot day, it’s worth heading into Wath Wood to cool off in its leafy trails. There are plenty of hills and viewpoints in Heptonstall if you want to go hiking.
Otherwise, cycle paths along roads or through woodland can be used for exercise. Looking for something even more adventurous? Add this to your list of things to do in Settle, Yorkshire.
#20. Malham Cove
The most well-known of all things to do in Settle is Malham Cove – a beautiful and famous limestone formation jutting out into a scenic valley.
The area is beautiful but doesn’t get too busy with tourists, meaning you can still enjoy some tranquil scenery and relax in peace.
This destination has a lot going for it as it’s home to several different species of fish which come together to form a large school here!
These fish are so tame that they’re used by rock climbers as handholds when climbing around here! There’s also an easy walk from here up to Malham Tarn, which offers breathtaking views over more of North Yorkshire.
This activity makes for an excellent day trip if you’re visiting from nearby Bradford or Leeds! Be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Settle, Yorkshire.
Address: Malham, Skipton BD23 4DJ, United Kingdom
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#21. Settle Stories Festival
Are you a storytelling aficionado? Then settle down for a fantastic weekend of storytelling fun in Settle. Held during February, all events are free to attend and provide an opportunity to hear tales from some of Britain’s finest storytellers.
Whether you are a local or visiting for just one day, there’s plenty to do throughout your stay. Storytelling events range from talks at theatres and libraries to comedy and musical performances.
The festival truly showcases how much talent lives in Yorkshire; it also demonstrates how storytelling is more than just an art form – it is also a way of life!
So grab your coat and hat, pack up your car with snacks and blankets, and head out on a road trip to Settle. You won’t regret it!
#22. Settle Falconry
Soar high above nature on a bird of prey with a world-renowned falconer from The British Falconers’ Club.
This incredible experience will give you a new perspective on these amazing birds and enable you to see them up close like never before. With just 20 people allowed per session, it promises to be an exhilarating day out.
Falconry is extremely popular across Britain and dates back to Ancient Egypt and prehistory, so if you have ever wanted to try something unique, there’s no better time than now!
A one-day course includes all tuition, safety equipment, insurance and refreshments but gets in quick as places are limited.
Address: Elaine’s Tearooms, Feizor, Lancaster LA2 8DF, United Kingdom
#23. Gallery On The Green
Housed in the Upper Settle town’s lone phone booth, The Gallery on the Green is proud to be the smallest gallery in the world.
Donations entirely support the Gallery on the Green, and it has hosted nearly 30 exhibitions over the past ten years.
The Gallery is presently hosting a photo exhibition for the majestic sycamore tree by the phone box near the center of the town green at the time of writing in early 2019.
Previous exhibitions include:
- Ingleborough studies (Big Hill in a Small Space).
- A mixed-media exhibition about the Canadian people (Canada Calling).
- An exhibition about the evolutionary process (Archaos II).
Address: 3 Green Head Ln, Settle BD24 9HH, United Kingdom
#24. Ribble Way
The 24-mile-long Ribble Way is a popular route that runs through the stunning countryside between Clitheroe and Preston.
It’s mostly off-road, meaning you can admire local wildlife and pass beautiful scenery, especially in spring or summer when colourful wildflowers pop up along your path.
If you prefer to stick to pavement, don’t worry; there are plenty of quiet country roads to cycle or jog along.
Throughout the walk, there are several places to stop for lunch and even a few local pubs where you can enjoy a cold pint at sunset. As long as you plan, it’s easy to make time for everything on your list!
#25. The Courtyard
This restaurant serves up some of England’s best pub grub in a colourful and cosy outdoor courtyard. If you need a reason to visit other than that, be sure to order their fish and chips or Toad in a Hole.
The latter is a traditional English dish with sausage (or bacon) baked into warm slices of bread. It’s delicious and makes for an easy breakfast on your next day’s trip out of town.
Don’t miss nearby Grassington—another charming village just 15 minutes away by car.
There are many restaurants there, too, if you want to stay longer and explore more of what The Courtyard offers.
What is Settle Known for?
Within easy reach of bustling cities like York and Leeds but not overrun by tourists, there is a certain peace in Settle.
It’s one of England’s lesser-known gems, but visitors to its picturesque village square can spend their days sampling local ales and delicious teas in charming tea rooms. Locals will tell you that Settle has something for everyone, whether it’s for nightlife or family fun.
Is settle worth visiting?
As one of Britain’s most beloved tourist destinations (come on – it’s featured in Great British Bake Off), there are plenty of reasons to visit Settle.
For those looking for a sightseeing spot or even a couple of days away from city life, here are eight things you should consider doing while visiting!
Plan Your Trip To Settle, Yorkshire
If you are searching for things to do in Settle, Yorkshire this article has everything you need to know. It’s an excellent place for visitors and locals, and the weather is always perfect.
Settle is the perfect destination for people who love adventures. With an array of attractions and activities, it’s no wonder that it has become the fastest-growing city in Yorkshire.
So, start preparing to tour Settle on your next vacation. You’ll love it and enjoy the places to visit in Yorkshire.
