10 Best Things To Do In Grassington: Enchanting Yorkshire

Located deep in rural North Yorkshire’s Upper Wharfedale, Grassington is a characterful small market town that feels like a cosy village. It’s tiny but well worth visiting if you love quaint, off-the-beaten-track British destinations.

Despite the village’s size, there are many things to do in Grassington. The delightful attractions are sure to tempt you to linger in the village and to explore the beautiful nearby countryside.

Grassington is also very popular with fans of the “All Creatures Great and Small” TV series, which was filmed on location in the town.

In this blog, you’re going to find the best things to do in Grassington, learn what Grassington is famous for, discover the best pubs in Grassington and where to stay in case you want to stay overnight.

12 Best Things To Do In Grassington

1. Stroll Through Main Street

Grassington’s Main Street is home to an attractive cluster of local independent shops, cafes and welcoming pubs.

There’s also a small cobbled market square where the Grassington farmer’s market is held on the third Thursday of the month, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. It’s the perfect place to discover the best local Yorkshire Dales food and drink

2. Spot Film Locations From “All Creatures Great And Small”

The filming of the popular British TV series All Creatures Great & Small began in 2020, with Grassington chosen as “Darrowby” – the fictional village in the novels of James Herriot. Places to look out for include:

• The popular Stripey Badger bookshop (grocer’s shop G F Endleby)
• The Devonshire Arms (The Drovers’ pub), but the interior of the 13th century Green Dragon Inn (in Hardraw) doubled up as the interior of the Drovers’ pub!
• Grassington Post Office (Wood’s General Store)
• Walker’s Bakery (Darrowby Ironmongers)
• Love Brownies (J.A.Dean Drapers & Hosiery.)

3. Grassington Folk Museum

This cute folk museum is one of Grassington’s main attractions, so you’ll want to add this to your itinerary. Inside, you’ll get a real insight into what life was like in rural Grassington in the days when a trip to the market in Skipton would take a whole day!

4. Browse the Cute Independent Shops

If you’re wondering, “What shops are in Grassington?”, you’re in for a treat, as the town has an attractive collective of quirky independent shops selling quality items.

My favourites are the Stripey Badger Bookshop, the Mad Raven’s Nest and The Smithy Gallery. It’s hard to walk away without finding something unique to purchase for yourself or as a gift.

5. Grassington Congregational Church

Another must-see attraction in Grassington is the late Georgian church built in 1811 and now preserved as a Grade II listed building. Originally a place of worship for poor mill workers and labourers, it’s well worth seeing while you are visiting Grassington.

6. Take on Some Grassington Walks: Exploring the Natural Beauty of the Yorkshire Dales

Grassington offers an array of stunning walks for nature enthusiasts and avid hikers. With its breathtaking landscapes and idyllic setting, this quaint village is a perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside.

Whether you prefer gentle strolls or challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone in Grassington. Here are some of the most popular walks in Grassington.

Linton Falls Circular Walk – The “Grassington Waterfall Walk”

This easy 4-mile circular route takes you through lush meadows, along riverbanks, and past historic landmarks like Linton Church and Linton Falls. It’s pretty in the summer, but magnificent after rainfall!

The trail offers panoramic views of the rolling hills and provides ample opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as herons, kingfishers, and even otters if you’re lucky!

Top Tip: Head downstream to the Stepping Stones and cross the river before heading back along the other bank. (Not suitable for dogs who can’t/won’t swim).

Grass Wood Nature Reserve

Just a short walk from the village centre lies Grass Wood, a beautiful ancient woodland teeming with wildlife. Follow one of the well-marked trails that wind through this peaceful forest to discover rare flora and fauna, including wildflowers, and birdsong-filled groves, and maybe catch sight of elusive red squirrels.

Malham Cove & Gordale Scar Circuit

For those seeking more challenging terrain, this 8-mile circular hike showcases two natural wonders – Malham Cove and Gordale Scar.

Start at Malham Tarn National Nature Reserve before ascending the limestone pavement to reach Malham Cove’s dramatic cliff face. From there, continue on to explore Gordale Scar’s striking rock formations before returning via Janet’s Foss waterfall.

Embsay Reservoir Circular Walk

A delightful 5-mile loop around Embsay Reservoir rewards visitors with serene waterside views surrounded by rolling green hillsides dotted with sheep grazing peacefully nearby. This family-friendly walk offers plenty of spots for picnics or birdwatching while enjoying the tranquillity of this man-made reservoir.

The Dales Way

For the more ambitious hiker, Grassington is also a starting point for the famous long-distance trail known as The Dales Way.

This 80-mile route takes you through some of Yorkshire’s most stunning landscapes, passing by rivers, moorlands, and charming Yorkshire villages like Kettlewell and Dent along the way.

7. Discover the Best Drinking Spots in Yorkshire

What better way to end a day of exploring than by enjoying a pint or two at one of the best Grassington pubs?

Devonshire Arms

For those looking for more upscale accommodation and exceptional dining experiences, look no further than the Devonshire Arms in Grassington’s Main Street.

This luxurious inn offers comfortable rooms and an award-winning restaurant featuring seasonal menus crafted by talented chefs using locally sourced ingredients. Their extensive wine list perfectly complements the dishes, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion or a romantic evening.

The Black Horse Hotel

Located in the centre of Grassington, The Black Horse Hotel is steeped in history and charm. Dating back to the 17th century, this traditional pub boasts original oak beams and roaring log fires – perfect for cosying up with friends on chilly evenings.

Serving delicious homemade food using locally sourced ingredients and an impressive selection of real ales and fine wines, the Black Horse Hotel is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike.

The Foresters Arms

Situated just off Main Street, The Foresters Arms offers a warm, friendly atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home.

This family-run pub features an extensive menu filled with classic British “pub grub” such as pies, fish & chips, and hearty Sunday roasts – all served alongside an excellent range of beers from local breweries.

With regular live music nights and occasional quiz events, there’s always something fun happening at The Foresters Arms.

8. Grab Tasty Light Bites at One Of The Grassington Cafes or Tea Rooms

9. Enjoy Grassington Special Events

Grassington is great at putting on crowd-pleasing events. The most popular are the Grassington Dickensian Festival in early December each year and the Grassington 1940s Weekend in September.

Both are tremendously fun to attend, as the whole town gets involved, and many people dress up in period costumes!

Top Tip: You will need to book accommodation super early if you want to stay in Grassington during these events!

10. Hire A Bike

Yorkshire is renowned for having some of the best cycling trails in the UK and some of the best scenery, too! After all, it was chosen as the location when the Tour de France came to the UK as the “Tour de Yorkshire!”

Grassington is the perfect place to hire a bike, don your lycra, and explore the rolling green hills.

Where to Stay in Grassington

Hotels In Grassington

A Brief History of Grassington

Beyond its stunning natural beauty, this pretty town also has a long and rich history. Here’s a quick look at the captivating past of Grassington.

Ancient Roots and Stone Circles

Grassington’s history can be traced back to prehistoric times when early settlers inhabited the area. Archaeological discoveries indicate that Bronze Age burial mounds and stone circles once dotted the landscape, highlighting the village’s long-standing presence.

Medieval Times

Grassington became a bustling market town in medieval times thanks to its strategic location along important trade routes between Lancashire and West Yorkshire. The local economy thrived on agriculture, lead mining, and textile production.

Market Days

The weekly market tradition in Grassington has been alive since 1282, when King Edward I granted the town a royal charter. This tradition continues today, attracting locals and visitors who delight in browsing stalls filled with fresh produce, artisan crafts, and local delicacies.

Lead Mining Heritage

For centuries, lead mining played a crucial role in shaping Grassington’s identity and prosperity. The village was surrounded by numerous mines extracting valuable minerals from deep within the earth until their eventual decline in the late 19th century.

Georgian Influence

In the late 18th century, wealthy merchants built elegant houses in the town, using locally sourced limestone known as “Grassington marble.” The Georgian architecture of these beautifully preserved buildings adds enormous character to the town today.

Cultural Significance

Beautiful Grassington has inspired artists over the years, with J.M.W Turner famously painting several scenes of the village and its surrounding countryside. Today, several quality galleries continue this cultural tradition in the town.

The Great War

Like many communities, Grassington faced hardship during the First World War as young men from the area enlisted to serve their country. Memorial plaques throughout the town honour those who did not return, serving as a poignant reminder of this turbulent period.

Where is Grassington?

Grassington is located in North Yorkshire in the north of England. The town is 35 miles from Leeds (the nearest city) and over four and a half hours from London by road.

How to Get to Grassington

The best way to get to Grassington is to drive – through absolutely stunning scenery! If you need to rent a car, I recommend Rentalcars.com, as they work with all the top brands. Oh, and you get the best deals 🙂

Alternatively, get a train to Skipton, then catch one of the regular local buses to Grassington.

Where to Park in Grassington

The best car park in Grassington is at the National Park Centre, which is open from 10 am until 5 pm. You’ll need to set your Sat nav for BD23 5LB.

Weather in Grassington

The weather in Grassington adds another layer of beauty to this idyllic location. Here’s what you can expect from Grassington’s weather throughout the year.

Spring (March – May)

Spring arrives in Grassington with blossoming flowers and mild temperatures. With average highs ranging from 9°C to 15°C (48°F to 59°F), March still retains some coolness, while April and May bring more warmth. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers as spring in Yorkshire is notorious for its unpredictable weather patterns.

Summer (June – August)

Summers in Grassington are pleasantly warm, with average temperatures ranging from 14°C to 19°C (57°F to 66°F). The village buzzes with festivals and events, and the long summer evenings mean you’ll have more time to soak up the natural beauty surrounding Grassington.

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn paints the landscapes of Grassington in shades of red, orange, and yellow. September starts mild at around 14°C (57°F), gradually cooling down towards November when average highs reach approximately 8°C (46°F).

Winter (December – February)

While daylight hours are at their shortest and temperatures plummet to single digits, winter can be magical in the Yorkshire Dales. It’s the perfect time to wear your favourite woollies, take long bracing walks and find a cosy pub afterwards! It won’t always snow, but when it does, it’s enchanting.

Nearby Places to Visit in the Yorkshire Dales National Park

Threshfield

Threshfield is located in the heart of the stunning Yorkshire Dales, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.

It’s also the perfect spot for camping near Grassington, as there are two great campsites in the village – Wood Nook Caravan Park and Campsite and Wharfedale Club Campsite. both are highly rated by visitors and have excellent facilities.

Skipton and Skipton Castle

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or love exploring charming towns, Skipton and Skipton Castle should be on your travel bucket list. Skipton offers a wonderful combination of natural beauty, fascinating history, and its iconic 900-year-old castle.

Follow In The Footsteps of Harry Potter At Malham Cove

Malham Cove stands 260 feet (80 meters) high and comprises towering cliffs sculpted by glacial meltwater thousands of years ago. It is a captivating natural wonder that attracts adventurers and nature enthusiasts from all over the world.

With its breathtaking limestone formations, stunning views, and rich biodiversity, this geological masterpiece offers an unforgettable experience.

Walkers love the circular hike encompassing Janet’s Foss Waterfall and Gordale Scar Gorge while scaling the vertical face of Malham Cove is on the bucket list for many climbers.

The Harry Potter Connection

For Harry Potter fans, Malham Cove holds a special place as it was featured in the movie “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows”. It was the spot where Harry and Hermione camped out after their daring escape from Gringott’s Wizarding Bank.

Explore The Tranquil Beauty of Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey is a captivating historical site dating back to 1154, with a unique blend of natural beauty, rich heritage, and peaceful tranquillity. Boasting stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, picturesque walking trails, and a serene riverside setting, this abbey is ideal for visitors seeking a rejuvenating escape from everyday life.

Highlights at Bolton Abbey include the enchanting walks along the banks of the River Wharfe, the thrilling and treacherous Strid, and the architectural marvel of the medieval Priory Church. It’s also perfect for picnics, while families with children will love exploring the Welly Walk or navigating the ancient stepping stones across the river.

Pateley Bridge

Pateley Bridge is an idyllic destination known for its picturesque landscapes and warm hospitality. From its historic buildings and quaint shops to its breathtaking countryside and enchanting waterfalls, “Pateley” truly captures the essence of rural England.

➡️ Read more about the wonders of Pateley Bridge.

Stump Cross Caverns

Stump Cross Caverns is the perfect place for an underground adventure in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. This extensive network of limestone caves boasts stunning stalagmites, stalactites, and intricate rock formations.

Top Tip: The best way to explore these mysterious caves is with an expert guide who will lead you through narrow passageways and explain the fascinating history and geology behind them.

The caverns are thought to have been inhabited by early humans during the Stone Age. In the deepest parts of the caves, you’ll discover artefacts from ancient times.

Coldstones Cut

Nestled amidst the picturesque Nidderdale landscape in North Yorkshire lies a hidden gem that takes you on an incredible and unexpected journey through time.

Coldstones Cut is an awe-inspiring sculpture and viewpoint that lets visitors explore the area’s ancient history while enjoying breathtaking panoramas.

The 100-foot-high sculpture offers an impressive sight against the backdrop of Yorkshire’s rolling hills and endless skies. The structure is crafted from locally sourced stone and steel, paying homage to Yorkshire’s rich industrial heritage.

READ MORE: Discover Coldstones Cut – England’s Biggest Public Artwork

Families with children may also enjoy spending a day at Hesketh Farm Park, a working farm with plenty of family events to enjoy, while visiting a local riding centre and going pony trekking in the Grassington area is spectacular.

What to Wear in Grassington

Grassington is located in rural Yorkshire, in the north of England, where the weather can be very variable! Even in the height of summer, it can be chilly, and it’s likely to rain at any time. On the other hand, it’s England, so it can also be very warm.

➡️ This helpful packing list for Yorkshire should help you plan what to pack for your visit.

Grassington FAQs

Just in case you need some more information about lovely Grassington before organising your visit, here are some of the questions that people often ask about visiting Grassington:

Final Thoughts on Things To Do in Grassington

Grassington’s cobbled streets offer many activities that cater to various interests and preferences. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, this charming small town is a popular tourist destination with something to offer everyone.

From exploring the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park to immersing oneself in the rich heritage at Grassington Folk Museum, visitors can truly experience the beauty and tranquillity of this hidden gem.

The vibrant market square, delightful cafes and restaurants, and the warm hospitality of its residents further enhance the overall experience.

So whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer stay, be sure to include Grassington on your itinerary for an unforgettable adventure in one of England’s most captivating destinations.

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