Upper Wharfedale
Whatever road you choose to approach Upper Wharfedale, the valley provides dramatic views at every turn, from Bolton Abbey right up to the rivers’ source many miles further, at Cam Fell. When the chance arises, take the Dales Way and stroll a similar route – it’s magical! The hillsides throughout the Dale are marked by white scars of limestone, often forming spectacular outcrops such as Kilnsey Crag.
Many of today's village settlements - Bolton Abbey, Grassington and Kettlewell - were established during the 6th and 7th centuries when the Angles moved into the valley from the east. Buckden is surrounded by Iron Age settlements and a Roman road descends from the Fell into the village.
Every village has its own distinctive appeal; Grassington, the largest of the villages in Upper Wharfedale, hosts a major arts Festival in June (attracting national and international artists) and festive Dickensian weekends prior to Christmas. Burnsall has its Feast and Sports day beside the river in late August, and Linton is known for its village green with the beck flowing down the centre. At Kilnsey there is a Nature Park with trout fishing and a river-life Visitor Centre – watch out for the red squirrels. The Kilnsey Show (at the end of August) is a leading northern agricultural show. Kettlewell has become renowned for its’ Scarecrow Festival in August, while Buckden has its’ Annual Show in June, which incorporates the challenging Buckden Fell Race.
Upper Wharfedale - truly a gem of many facets.