How to Spend a Day in Settle, Yorkshire Dales
- jillcrowson66
- Jan 16
- 4 min read
The charming market town of Settle, set on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, is a wonderful place to explore for a day. With its independent shops, rich industrial history, beautiful riverside walks and easy access to some of the Dales’ most iconic landscapes, Settle offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more deeply, here’s an inspiring guide to what Settle has to offer – with flexible options to suit the weather, your interests and the pace of your day.
Morning in Settle: Cafés, Shops & Riverside Walks
Breakfast at Ye Olde Naked Man Café
Start your day at the much-loved Ye Olde Naked Man Café, a Settle institution known for its hearty breakfasts and quirky history. Fuel up here before heading out to explore the town.
Explore Settle Town Centre
Wander through Settle’s Market Place and High Street, where you’ll find a fantastic mix of independent shops, local makers and friendly cafés. Take your time browsing gift shops, bookshops and artisan retailers – perfect for picking up something unique.
Riverside Walk & Settle Hydro
From the town centre, enjoy a gentle Riverside Walk along the River Ribble. This peaceful route leads to Settle Hydro at Bridge End Mill, a community-run hydroelectric project that reflects the town’s strong sense of sustainability and heritage.
Watershed Mill & Artisan Shopping
Continue to Watershed Mill, a beautifully restored 19th-century weaving shed now home to independent retailers, crafts and local produce. It’s also a hub for creative events throughout the year.
During summer, you may catch early glimpses of the famous Settle Flowerpot Festival, with imaginative creations taking shape at the Potting Shed.
Settle Market Place Afternoon in Settle: Food, Walks & History
Lunch in Settle
Settle offers excellent lunch options to suit every taste:
The Wonky Cake – perfect for homemade bakes and light lunches
Miss Victoria’s Garden – a relaxing café with fresh, seasonal dishes
Forage & Feast – ideal for a takeaway before heading out for a walk
Jubilee Caves on the Settle loop Walks & Historic Landmarks Near Settle
After lunch, choose from several rewarding walks and historic sites within easy reach of the town:
Jubilee Cave & Victoria Cave
Follow woodland paths to Victoria Cave, a nationally important archaeological site where ancient fossils and Roman artefacts were discovered. The walk also passes Jubilee Cave, offering lovely views back towards Settle.
Castleberg Crag
For panoramic views over Settle and the surrounding countryside, climb Castleberg Crag. This short but steep walk rewards you with one of the best viewpoints in the area.
Hoffmann Kiln
Step back in time at the atmospheric Hoffmann Kiln, a remarkable Victorian lime kiln hidden in woodland just outside Settle. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the town’s industrial past.
Rainy Day Alternative: The Folly
If the weather turns wet, head to The Folly, a striking Grade I listed building housing the Museum of Northern Life. Alongside engaging exhibitions, it boasts an award-winning café – making it an excellent indoor option.
Evening in Settle: Food, Culture & Entertainment
Dinner in a Traditional Settle Pub
As evening approaches, relax in one of Settle’s welcoming pubs:
The Talbot Arms – traditional Yorkshire hospitality and hearty food
The Golden Lion – a historic coaching inn with a warm atmosphere
Both are perfect places to unwind after a day of exploring.
Live Music & Events at Settle Victoria Hall
End your day at Settle Victoria Hall, the world’s oldest surviving music hall. It hosts an eclectic programme of live music, cinema, theatre and community events throughout the year.
In summer, the gardens are a real highlight, often featuring live music and a wonderful atmosphere. It’s well worth checking what’s on during your visit.
Bonus Experiences In & Around Settle
Settle–Carlisle Railway
Leave the car behind and catch the train on the iconic Settle–Carlisle Railway. This world-famous line offers breathtaking views and passes over the spectacular Ribblehead Viaduct, just minutes from Ashes Farm.
The Courtyard Dairy
On the edge of Settle, The Courtyard Dairy is a must-visit for cheese lovers. This award-winning cheesemonger showcases some of the best artisan cheeses in Britain, alongside a café and tasting experiences.
Settle Flowerpot Festival (July–September)
Each summer, the town comes alive with over 250 imaginative flowerpot displays, transforming streets, gardens and buildings into a joyful outdoor gallery.
Why Visit Settle in the Yorkshire Dales?
Settle’s rich history, independent spirit and stunning natural backdrop make it one of the most appealing market towns in the Yorkshire Dales. It’s ideal for walkers, history lovers, foodies and anyone looking for an authentic Dales experience.
Ashes Farm makes an ideal place to stay when exploring Settle – located just 10 miles by car or around 10 minutes by train, allowing you to enjoy the town while returning to peaceful countryside and dark skies.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed day out or building Settle into a longer Yorkshire Dales break, this charming town offers plenty of inspiration.
Sources: Yorkshire Life Magazine and local features.
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