Settle for a Self-Catering Break in the Heart of the Dales: Deep in the heart of what Yorkshire folk call ‘God’s own country’ is the market town of Settle. Located just outside the Yorkshire Dales National Park, this charming town could be an excellent choice for a cottage break for those looking to stay somewhere scenic with easy access to the nearby Yorkshire Dales Park.
Information on Cottage Holidays in Settle
Local people are understandably proud of all that the Yorkshire Dales has to offer and whilst on holiday here you have the opportunity to share in their infectious enthusiasm. Visitors can relax in a cosy cafe or indulge in one of many outdoor activities available in the area. Its hills, waterfalls, moorland topped with heather, limestone features and country lanes are a welcome respite for urban dwellers.
A cottage holiday in or near Settle should be an excellent choice for those who love experiencing what the great outdoors have to offer. Cavers, hikers, climbers and cyclists love to spend their weekends in the surrounding countryside. Families on breaks can also go mountain biking or pony trekking. Hiring equipment, guides and instruction on various activities help to introduce the novice to outdoor adventures. Caving is very popular in this part of the world and it boasts a number of prehistoric finds, including a hippo and a mammoth! Settle also serves as a base for exploring the Forest of Bowland, an area of diverse terrain offering walks for all abilities.
Families can choose from a range of circular walks or can join a guided walk. If cycling is a favourite activity, different cycling routes offer different levels of difficulty for all ages. For more experienced walkers, the challenge of the nearby Three Peaks (Penyghent, Whernside and Ingleborough) is well known. Choose one or two peaks or all three for a real sense of achievement. Get a weather forecast, stay safe, always tell someone where you are going and take appropriate clothing and equipment.
Whilst enjoying a self-catering break make sure that you enjoy a welcome cup of tea and a scone. Olde Naked Man in Market Place is reputed to be the oldest café in England. That could certainly be true as it opened way back in 1663 and this place is recommended for its range of tasty treats, baked on the premises.
The Folly is an impressive listed building in Settle dating back to the 17th century that contains the Museum of North Craven Life. Visit this museum for a chance to gain more information on the history of the local area. Permanent and touring exhibitions display local historic artefacts, furniture and items relating to the local railway. Settle may be small, but it has its very own special art gallery, albeit possibly the smallest public one in the world! The Gallery on the Green is actually an old style, BT red phone box and displays temporary exhibitions by modern artists from across the world.
If you enjoy taking it easy during your cottage stay yet want to take in some of the sights why not catch a ride on one of the most famous railway routes in Britain, the Settle-Carlisle line? Passengers can enjoy 72 miles of terrific scenery, taking in landmarks such as the Ribblehead Viaduct. For a ride on a diesel train, no booking is required. If wanting to go onboard a steam train, these run less regularly and advance booking is needed.
Tuesday is market day in the town (unless it is a public holiday). In fact, Settle has had a market charter since 1248. The Street Market and the indoor market offer a range of food, clothing, electronic goods and more. The indoor market is found in Victoria Hall, which also hosts craft fairs and presents music performances and plays.
So, the Dales is a playground for families and adventurers alike and Settle is the perfect place to book self-catering accommodation and enjoy its hospitality. Whether you opt for a town house, a country house or a romantic retreat for two, we hope you find good quality accommodation and have a brilliant time in this part of Yorkshire.
Whether you choose to book a holiday cottage in Settle, an apartment, a lodge or another type of self-catering holiday accommodation, we hope you have your best holiday yet in North Yorkshire.