Stainforth
Walks from Stainforth
About Stainforth
A largely undiscovered village set up the Ribble valley only 1 mile north of Settle. Stainforth tends to be bypassed on the way to Horton and the bigger and better climbs of Pen y Ghent and Ingleborough but it really should not be missed. Take a cottage for a weekend break and soak in the atmosphere of the village. It’s name is derived from ‘stony ford’ which orginally linked two separate settlements on each side of the river. On the East bank Stainforth was developed by the Cistercian monks of Sawley Abbey with the estate being efficiently run and prospering during the 14th and 15th century. However Little Stainforth, under private ownership, on the western side of the river gradually declined until 1670 when Samuel Watson replaced the ford with an attractive packhorse bridge, which is still the focal point of the village.
There are 2 obvious areas to explore from the village; aim down stream for a few hundred yards and come to the deep pool known as Stainforth Force, where the water careers over a limestone ledge. Alternatively try the quaint stepping stones 100 yards up stream and venture on to Goat Scar Lane which leads high in to the hillside. Catrigg Force is a mile up the lane and a wonderful spot to explore and take a picnic.
Stainforth Hall was built in the 17th century and, although converted to a farm now, is still an excellent 3 story building but the real gem of this very attractive village is the Craven Heifer, situated right bang on the packhorse bridge. The Heifer is an excellent example of a traditional Yorkshire pub, nothing flamboyant, just good pub grub, light snacks and a fine pint of bitter.
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