Attractions and Places To See around Scargill - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Scargill include a mix of historic landmarks, industrial heritage sites, and natural features within the picturesque Greta Valley and expansive Pennines. The area is characterized by its rugged landscapes, including the River Wharfe and Great Whernside, offering diverse outdoor exploration opportunities. Scargill also features cultural sites and points of interest, such as Britain's highest inn. This region provides a variety of sites for visitors interested in history, geology, and outdoor activities.
Best attractions…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Reeth Village Green
Highlight • Settlement
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Tan Hill Inn
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Tan Hill Inn – Britain's Highest Inn
Highlight • Pub
On the border of Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales near the village of Keld, the pub is …
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Old Gang Smelt Mill Ruins
Highlight • Monument
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Whorlton Suspension Bridge
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Tips from the Community
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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The Old Gang are the ruins of a lead smelting mill, it dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries. It is one of the best preserved up in the north, and is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument. This trail runs right through it, passing by various building ruins, mine entrances, and the peat store.
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We called in here on a busy but wet bank holiday Sunday after hiking nearby Hoove Hill. Despite the horrid weather, the pub cheered us up no end. We had nice service—I mean, really nice, friendly smiles, polite, attentive, and were super quick. The food was also good, not the biggest portions I have had in a pub, but it was all very filling, quick, and well presented. All this at a decent price too. £42, for a main course meal with two drinks. It is obvious that the highest pub in Britain also has high standards, see you again soon!
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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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Old Gang is an old smelting mill, dating back to the 18th or 19th century. It's one of the best preserved mills of its kind in the North and is also a Scheduled Ancient Monument. There are many remains here. The most obvious is the mill itself, with its completely intact chimney. There is also a row of stone columns on the hillside, representing all that remains of a peat house. The area is harsh, bleak and, therefore, fantastic (a bit of an insight into the way my mind works there).
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A very pretty Dales village with its impressive village green.
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Quaint pub with good food, great starting point for the rest of the Pennine Way hike. In the bunkhouse you could listen to the wind blowing strongly. Bunkhouse itself very expensive for the facilities and size (8-bed room, very narrow, one bathroom for the room as well as the neighboring room). There is also a bathroom available for the campsite. It's worth starting early in the morning to experience the moorland shrouded in fog and watch the sun's rays break through.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Scargill?
The region boasts several significant historical sites. You can visit Old Gang Smelt Mill Ruins, an 18th or 19th-century industrial heritage site that is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Additionally, Scargill Castle, a Grade II*-listed building with Tudor-era rebuilding, offers a glimpse into medieval and Tudor history. The area also features the intriguing Roman Shrines on Scargill High Moor, dedicated to the god Vinotonus Silvanus.
What natural landscapes and features can I discover near Scargill?
Scargill is nestled within the picturesque Greta Valley and the expansive Pennines. Key natural features include Upper Wharfedale, known for its wild flowers and diverse trees, and the River Wharfe with its stony 'beaches' and charming bridges. Dominating the views is Great Whernside, a peak reaching 2,310 feet, and spectacular limestone formations like Kilnsey Crag.
Where can I find family-friendly attractions or activities around Scargill?
For family-friendly options, consider visiting Reeth Village Green, a historic village with scenic surroundings and places to eat. The Tan Hill Inn, Britain's highest pub, is also noted as family-friendly and offers a unique experience. Within the Scargill House estate, families can explore the Scargill Labyrinth, a 29-foot, seven-circuit limestone labyrinth.
Are there opportunities for hiking or walking near Scargill's attractions?
Yes, the area around Scargill offers numerous hiking and walking opportunities. You can find a variety of routes, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. For example, there are easy hikes like the Barnard Castle & Egglestone Abbey loop, and moderate to difficult options such as the Greta River – God's Bridge loop. You can explore more options on the hiking guide for Scargill or the easy hikes guide.
What is the highest pub in Britain, and is it near Scargill?
Yes, Tan Hill Inn is Britain's highest pub, situated at 1,732 feet (528m) above sea level. It's a historic and lively pub on the border of Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales, offering food, accommodation, and live music. Visitors praise its remote charm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular stop for hikers.
Can I find places to eat or stay in the villages around Scargill?
Yes, villages like Reeth Village Green offer various places to eat and stay. The Tan Hill Inn also provides food, drinks, and accommodation, including rooms and camping options. These locations serve as excellent bases for exploring the surrounding area.
What unique cultural points of interest are in the region?
Beyond historical sites, Scargill House functions as a Christian conference center, featuring an 18th-century house and a Grade II*-listed chapel built in a Scandinavian style. The estate also includes the Scargill Labyrinth, a 29-foot, seven-circuit limestone labyrinth constructed from local stone.
What do visitors say about the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/5979499" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reeth Village Green</a>?
Visitors describe Reeth Village Green as a very pretty Dales village with an impressive village green. It's considered the capital of Swaledale, rich in history from its mining heyday, and now a tranquil haven for hikers. It offers plenty of places to eat and stay, including historic establishments like the Black Bull.
Is there a notable bridge or architectural landmark to see?
Yes, the Whorlton Suspension Bridge is a significant architectural landmark. Opened in 1831, it is still supported on its original chains and is recognized as a Grade II* Listed Structure and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. It crosses the River Tees near Barnard Castle, offering fantastic views.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the natural areas around Scargill?
The ancient woodlands, hay meadows, and diverse natural features around Scargill support a rich variety of wildlife. You might spot various species of butterflies, including the Scotch Argus, Brown Argus, Red Admiral, Peacock, Comma, and Small Tortoiseshell, as well as numerous bird species.
Are there any easy walking routes suitable for all abilities?
Yes, there are several easy walking routes available. For example, the Easy hikes around Scargill guide lists routes like the Barnard Castle & Egglestone Abbey loop (7.2 km) and the Bowes Castle Ruins – Greta River loop (3.6 km), which are suitable for those looking for less strenuous options.
What is the best time of year to visit Scargill for outdoor activities?
The region's natural beauty, including wild flowers and butterflies, is particularly vibrant during spring and summer. These seasons generally offer more favorable weather for hiking, walking, and exploring the outdoor attractions. However, the remote nature of places like the Tan Hill Inn means it can be busy even in less ideal weather, suggesting year-round appeal for some activities.
Where can I find accommodation near Scargill?
Accommodation options are available in nearby villages and at specific attractions. Tan Hill Inn offers rooms and camping facilities. The village of Reeth Village Green also has various places to stay, including hotels and guest houses.
Most popular attractions around Scargill
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