Swaledale: most-loved of the Yorkshire Dales?
"On the empty moors, with the curlews crying, I have been able to find peace and tranquillity. It is a land of pure air, rocky streams and hidden waterfalls.” James Herriot
The River Swale is one of England’s fastest flowing, quickest rising rivers, rushing its way between Thwaite, Muker, Reeth and on to Richmond. Keld's waterfalls are popular with walkers (and midges!).
Swaledale’s only town is Richmond, where the 100ft high Richmond Castle walls and sloping cobbled market place dominate the town.
Popular local events include Swaledale Festival, Muker Show and Reeth Show. I love to hear Muker Silver Band and Reeth Brass Band at open air events.
On the moors you’re likely to see the small, hardy Swaledale sheep. They're an iconic breed and such a strong feature of the Dales, a Swaledale sheep's head is used as the emblem of Yorkshire Dales National Park
In the lower areas, you’ll see tranquil hay meadows (at their best in the early summer months) bordered by a myriad of dry stone walls and punctuated by cow houses or cow'us - many refer to them as field barns. The hay meadows are filled with wildflowers, insect and bird life.
It’s hard to believe these calm pastures and wild moors were ever a site for industry but you can still see the remains of the former lead mining industry.
Many people will recognise a special part of Swaledale from the title sequence of the original TV series 'All Creatures Great and Small', when Siegfried’s car splashes through the stream. This beautiful spot sits in a dip in the moors beside the minor road from Low Row to Arkengarthdale, and is the perfect place to relax and take in the scenery.
