Swaledale cottages

One of the northernmost Dales, Swaledale is famed for its wildflower meadows, sprawling heather moorland and graceful waterfalls, lying between the River Swale and the east side of the Pennines. This relaxing dale is ideal for cycling or walking holidays, with beautiful countryside and quaint tea rooms to explore and enjoy here. 

Swaledale's largest settlement is Reeth, the meeting point between Swaledale and Arkengarthdale. The town is surrounded by pretty heather moor hills of Calver Hill and Fremington Edge, with the community centering around the triangular village green, with the shops, cafes and pubs of the village connected by traditional, cobbled roads. Reeth reached its peak in the 19th century, with many of the locals being employed in the lead-mining industry, however today the village has a thriving arts communtity, with galleries throughout the village and a popular market every Friday where you can purchase local crafts, food and clothing. The village also hosts the annual Swaledale Festival (a celebration of music, arts and walking in the Yorkshire Dales), as well as the Reeth Show. The village is great for walkers, with Alfred Wainwright's coast to coast footpath passing through the village where you can head to Robin Hood's Bay on the Yorkshire Coast or to Saint Bees in Cumbria. 

Like Reeth, Gunnerside was a centre for leadmining in the 19th century, with workers heading to nearby Gunnerside Ghyll (now a wonderful walk for locals and visitors), and was once split into two separate settlements. Muker is regarding as one of Swaledale's most beautiful, and features in many photographs and paintings. The Tan Hill Inn, the highest pub in England, is close to the village and well worth a visit, especially after a day walking or cycling around the beautiful countryside. 

Our cottages within Swaledale's towns and villages can be seen below and you can find out more about the area by visiting our Yorkshire Dales guide. We also have many beautiful cottages in Wensleydale which you can learn more about by clicking on the link below.