Best attractions and places to see around Stainton include a variety of natural monuments, historical sites, and community hubs. The region offers diverse landscapes, from the dramatic Aysgarth Lower Falls to the historical ruins of Easby Abbey. Visitors can explore areas rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. Stainton provides opportunities for outdoor activities and discovering local history.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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One of the largest and most open village greens in the Yorkshire Dales, historically used for markets, fairs, and livestock trading — the social heart of Swaledale long before tourism arrived. The green’s broad, triangular shape reflects its medieval origins as a common grazing and gathering space. Plenty of parking around the village green, but having arrived at 7am in winter for a hike and finding them all full, I suspect other times of the year will be even more difficult to secure a space.
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A wonderful village on the Coast to Coast Path. There are plenty of places to stay around the village green. The village youth play football on the lawn, including the very young ones. Very nice!
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Great castle/palace also wilde boar in roaming free behind it
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The wall paintings are wonderful - always a joy to see. The bike ride alongside the Swale is perfect. Watch out for herons, which can often be seen fishing on a rock. The ice cream at the parlour as you arrive at the station is delicious. The deli just inside is also fabulous…….
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Lovely castle with a hard little climb alongside up into the village
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Biggest ruins I've seen, no entry fee, lots of interesting places to see, my favourite part was the roof underneath the refectory
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Thought of as the capital of Swaledale, Reeth is a village with a history as rich as its scenery. Incredibly, in its mining heyday, it was producing a tenth of England's lead. Today, its industrial past is evident on the high moorlands, while Swaledale is a tranquil hikers' haven, quieter than the more accessible dales further south. There are plenty of places to eat and stay, including the Black Bull, which dates back to 1680.
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The region offers several natural highlights. You can visit Aysgarth Lower Falls, a stunning natural monument known for its crashing white waters, which inspired 19th-century Romantic painters. In the South Lakeland area, explore Arnside Knott, a summit with mixed woodland and limestone grassland, offering extensive views of the Lakeland Fells and Yorkshire Dales. Stainton Quarry and Kell Gate Green in Middlesbrough also provide community-run open green space.
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore the breathtaking Ruins of Easby Abbey, a well-preserved monastery by the River Swale, free to enter. Bolton Castle, a magnificent 14th-century castle, offers great views and a glimpse into its past, including the imprisonment of Mary, Queen of Scots. In Stainton (Middlesbrough), the Grade II* listed St Peter and St Paul Anglican Church dates back to the 12th century, where Captain James Cook's parents were married. Sizergh Castle and Gardens in Cumbria is another notable National Trust property with historical significance.
Many attractions cater to families. Aysgarth Lower Falls is a beautiful spot for all ages. The Dales Bike Centre & Café is family-friendly, offering food and bike services. Both Ruins of Easby Abbey and Bolton Castle are suitable for families, with the castle featuring gardens, a maze, and a wildflower meadow. In Cumbria, the Alpaca Centre offers a chance to see alpacas, and Sizergh Castle and Gardens provides extensive grounds to explore.
For stunning views, head to Arnside Knott in South Lakeland, Cumbria, which offers extensive panoramas of the Lakeland Fells and the Yorkshire Dales. The Mushroom on Scout Scar, also in Cumbria, provides sumptuous views of the Lakeland skyline. Bolton Castle is also known for having some of the best views in the Dales.
Yes, the area is popular for cycling. The Dales Bike Centre & Café is a hub for cyclists, offering bike hire, route suggestions, and an excellently stocked bike shop. You can find various cycling opportunities, including gravel biking, road cycling, and general touring routes. Explore options like the 'East Bolton Moor loop' or 'Swale Trail' for gravel biking, or 'Cover Bridge Inn – Bedale Market Town loop' for road cycling. More details on routes can be found in the Cycling around Stainton guide.
Beyond visiting attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. The region is excellent for walking and cycling. Arnside Knott offers opportunities for exploring mixed woodland and limestone grassland. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and touring. For specific routes, check out the Gravel biking around Stainton or Road Cycling Routes around Stainton guides.
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and historical significance of the area. The crashing waters of Aysgarth Lower Falls are a classic view. The Dales Bike Centre & Café receives praise for its superb customer service and offerings like food and bike services. The well-preserved Ruins of Easby Abbey are valued for their picturesque setting and free entry, while Bolton Castle is loved for its magnificent medieval architecture and stunning Dales views.
Yes, in Stainton (South Lakeland, Cumbria), you can discover the Fairy Steps, shrouded in legends where it's said a wish is granted if you can ascend or descend without touching the sides. Also, 'The Mushroom' on Scout Scar is a distinctive landmark chosen by Wainwright for its summit views. The Alpaca Centre offers a unique chance to see alpacas and browse garments made from their fiber.
The Dales Bike Centre & Café is a popular spot for food, cake, and coffee. Reeth Village Green, considered the capital of Swaledale, has plenty of places to eat and stay, including the historic Black Bull pub. Sizergh Castle and Gardens also has an on-site cafe and shop. In Stainton (Middlesbrough), The Stainton public house has been a significant part of the village's social history since 1897.
Reeth Village Green is considered the capital of Swaledale and is known for its rich history, particularly its past as a lead mining hub. Today, it serves as a tranquil haven for hikers and offers various places to eat and stay, including the historic Black Bull pub, dating back to 1680.
If you are visiting Stainton (South Lakeland, Cumbria) on a Saturday, you'll be within easy walking distance of the largest open-air market in Cumbria, which features many stalls under cover.
The Rheged Discovery Centre, located a short walk or drive from Stainton (South Lakeland, Cumbria), is known as a 'Village in the Hill.' It features spectacular large-format film shows, craft displays, and refreshment areas, offering an indoor attraction for visitors.


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