If you are looking to explore somewhere that looks like it has come straight from a postcard, there is a picturesque North Yorkshire village on the edge of the North York Moors you have to visit. Thornton-le-Dale offers everything you desire from a quaint countryside village – history, community spirit, relaxed atmosphere, independent shops, and interesting architecture.
A Picture-Perfect Day Out
You may already recognise a couple of places in the village. Firstly, there’s the beautiful Beck Isle Cottage. This 17th-century thatched cottage is a Grade II listed building and looks like something out of a fairytale. The cottage has been featured on postcards, chocolate boxes, jigsaws, and calendars. You may also be familiar with Mathewson’s, the classic car auctioneer featured in the hit TV show ‘Bangers and Cash’.
If you love a bit of history, then Thornton-le-Dale has it in abundance! It is an ancient settlement, farmed by Neolithic man and a place where the Anglo-Saxons settled. It is also known to have existed in its current form before the Norman Conquest. You will also find stocks in the middle of the village (so don’t misbehave!), which were last used in 1874. Overlooking the village, you will find the magnificent Grade II listed All Saints Church, which dates back to the 14th-century.
Gifts, Sweet Treats, and Ales Glore
In the village today, you will find a great variety of independent shops, cafés, and pubs. Some of the standout shops include:
- Balderson’s Ice Cream Parlour – An absolute little gem serving 21 homemade flavours, all made right at the ice cream parlour in Thornton-le-Dale.
- The Chocolate Factory – Offering a range of handmade chocolates, chocolate fingers, and chocolate bars.
- Gray’s Emporium – A shop full of treasures from different periods, including artwork, glassware, furniture, clocks, and jewellery.
- Baldersons Gallery and Gifts – For all your gifting needs. They sell cards, ornaments, candles, gifts for special occasions, and so much more.
- Mathewson’s Classic Cars Gift Shop – Calling all car fans! Here you will find motoring-themed memorabilia and gifts.
After you’ve finished with your retail therapy, there are plenty of places around the village for food and a refreshing pint. For food, there is Café Bouchère, Baldersons Welcome Café and Bakery, and Lavenders Tea Rooms to choose from. For your beer needs, pop into The New Inn, a cosy, traditional country pub serving homemade food and great ales.
Places to Explore Nearby to Thornton-le-Dale
Another great reason to visit Thornton-le-Dale is its proximity to some of North Yorkshire’s best tourist attractions. So, once you have taken in the beauty and history of the village, you can check out places such as:
- North Yorkshire Moors Railway – Visit Britain’s most popular heritage railway, and travel 18 miles through the stunning North York Moors National Park.
- Eden Camp – Take a step back to wartime Britain and visit this former prisoner of war camp, which takes you on a journey through British military and social history from 1914 onwards.
- Dalby Forest – Over 8,500 acres for you to explore, walk, run, and cycle. There is also ‘Go Ape’ in the forest, so you can bring out your inner Tarzan and swing through the trees.
- Castle Howard – Discover this wonderful 18th-century house and courtyard along with 1,000 acres of lush gardens.
So, when you are looking for your next adventure, make sure you add a visit to the picture-perfect Yorkshire village of Thornton-le-Dale.
Read More: 9 Of The Best North York Moors Restaurants You Need To Try
