Whether you are planning on pony trekking, potholing, mountain biking or simply getting away from it all, Reeth is a good place to start. At the centre of the Northern Dales, this compact 18th Century village is home to some of the region’s finest arts and crafts, country inns and scenery. It’s also perfectly placed to explore the rolling Viking Valleys and peaks of nearby Arkengarthdale and Swaledale, and a landscape of secluded villages and cascading moorland streams.

Despite its small size, Reeth is a remarkably lively place that is jam-packed with independent retailers, so if you’re a window shopper or a seasoned bargain hunter you’re really in for a treat. Friday is market day on Reeth Green, where you can haggle away and find a range of unique local crafts and produce. Visitors are attracted to Reeth, because it strikes a perfect balance between the natural tranquillity of its surroundings and the abundant facilities in its bustling interior.

Reeth has a thriving art community and there are many shops, galleries and cafés offering unique local crafts, furniture, foods and clothing. Many events take place on the green during the year, including quoits and firework displays. The highlights of the year are the Swaledale Festival, which includes walks, concerts and talks, and Reeth Show.

The houses, pubs and shops cluster round the triangular village green, with its traditional cobbles.

Photography Credit: Guy Carpenter, Gullwing Photography