Kettlewell

This popular, grey stone village is in a steep, narrow part of the dale, where the old coach road over Park Rash Pass from Middleham and Coverdale joins Wharfedale. Three inns in the village bear witness to the village’s former importance in the glory days of stage coach travel.

Kettlewell also played a role in the days of lead mining and ore crushing machinery from former mines can be found in Skipton’s Craven Museum. The village's narrow back lanes with rows of picturesque cottages add charm to this compact community, which has a good choice of facilities for visitors.

In the 21st century walkers are probably the most frequent visitors. Some are walking the Dales Way northwards towards Buckden. Others are setting out to climb Great Whernside (704m) to the east. Another popular ramble is over Old Cote Moor to Arncliffe in Littondale, returning via Hawkscliffe and the fine viewpoint down to Kilnsey Crag from Knipe Scar.

Two miles north of Kettlewell and on the Wharfedale bus routes is Starbotton, another excellent starting point for walks along or out of the Dale. From here there are paths to Kettlewell via Moor End and paths to Arncliffe via Old Cote Moor. There’s also a splendid hike over the shoulder of Buckden Pike into the hidden, cul-de-sac valley of Walden and onwards into to West Burton, from where you can return to Wharfedale using the late afternoon summer Dales Bus services.

Bus times can be checked on the Dalesbus website.

Local services: pubs, cafes, shops, toilets, accommodation, Youth Hostel, Park Information Point (PIP)