Settle
Walks from Settle
About Settle
Settle is a busting market town situated right on the edge of the National Park. It is easily accessible (just off the A65 and with a regular bus and train service)and has great character. The views are dominated by the 500 foot limestone scar of Castleburg Crag which itself can be climbed by a myriad of footpaths on its steep slopes.
The market place and the two storey historic building known as the Shambles is full of character but comes to life on market day (Tuesday)but the real joy of Settle is the hidden alleyways and walkways which lead to little surprises such as the Folly which often has exhibitions of local interest on its site.
Whilst in Settle it is well worth taking a walk over the Ribble and in to the neighbouring village of Giggleswick. Dominated by the famous Public School (founded in 1512) a walk round Giggleswick is a lesson in history with grand old buildings and sites straight out of 19th century Britain. The Riverside project on the Ribble provides an excellent short walk bankside where the sterling work of the YD Millenium Trust is providing a great habitat for birds and animals alike.
Settle was described in the Domesday Book as a ‘waste’ but that it is not, market town statues arrived around about the 113th century and the town became one of the famous turn pike towns of the 15th and 16th century – many of the excellent public houses survive (only marginally unchanged) to this present day.
Unlike the towns of the Lake District Settle is still largely unspoilt, many of the shops are of great character and charm. Car & Kitchen offers a selection of good quality nik, nacks, Cave & Crag does what it says on the tin but with a knowledgeable personal service added and Ancient & Modern Tapestries has an untouchable selection of kits from local artists.
Ye Olde Naked Man and Bakery is rightly one of the most famous tea shops in the Dales but the other ones are equal in terms of friendly service and character whilst there is a choice of 6 or 7 pubs of which the Golden Lion is my favourite. No 13 is a wine bar providing a different, more sophisticated drinking experience.
In addition to good wholesome pub food there is an excellent small restaurant called the Little House serving continental food, and excellent Indian called the Ruchee and the Chip shop in the Shambles is reputed to serve the best fish in the Dales. However the Traddock towards Austwick provides the best eating, although you do pay for it.
