A scenic journey is assured from which ever direction you choose to approach the historic market town of Settle.
The approach from the Skipton direction, paralleling the famous Settle to Carlisle railway line, has views across the valley of the River Ribble towards Pendle Hill. If travelling from the north, access through Kirkby Lonsdale and Ingleton benefit from views of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks.
On arrival in Settle town centre, a central car park with free parking for coaches and a public toilet is available. From there a gentle stroll of only a hundred yards leads to the Market square. Other parking is also available, again within easy walking distance of the centre.
The bustling market, chartered by King Henry III in 1249, is held every Tuesday on the historic Market Place. The ability to shop for products that have been sourced locally has become more important than ever. The traditional traders on Settle Market offer fresh local produce as well as providing visitors with their expert knowledge and advice.
Settle Market has adapted to recent events and is still a thriving, traditional market. The market management are aware of the need to continue to keep people safe, so some social distancing measures are still practiced, and sanitising stations are available for all to use. Many of the traders now accept cashless payments.
You will find a wide variety of stalls selling individually sourced products, gifts and clothing as well as mouth-watering produce. Sample the handmade luxury cakes or the freshly baked bread. Feast on the variety of cheeses and the plentiful offerings on the fruit & veg and fish stall. Or update your wardrobe with the variety of shoes, bags, clothing and handmade jewellery to choose from.
The many stalls selling household items including towels, bedding, stationary, picture frames, watches and plants & flowers ensure that there is plenty to browse upon. The Market also has a range of stalls that support local charities.
A haven of friendly independent local shops are nestled around each corner, with each offering something different. There is a community feel to the town, with businesses supporting each other. The diverse range of products and services you get with independent businesses appeal to both locals and visitors from far and wide. A range of cafes, bars, tea rooms and restaurants ensure that the hungry visitors are well catered for in the picturesque town setting.
Settle also boasts 76 listed buildings these include, The Folly, a grade 1 listed building with outstanding architectural importance. Built in 1679, The Folly now houses the museum of North Craven life, various exhibitions and an atmospheric tearoom. The market place itself is flanked by The Shambles and the Victorian town hall, and the amusingly titled Naked Man Cafe.
All this is set against the impressive backdrop of the marvellous Castlebergh Crag, a massive limestone outcrop which towers over the town. From the viewing point at the top a panoramic display board details the local landmarks and points of interest. The other interpretation panels located around the Crag show the fauna, flora and the geology of the area. Visit Settle Market for a warm welcoming day out where you can be assured of plenty to see, do and buy !!
More information on visiting the Market is available at www.visitsettle.co.uk/settle-market.html
