Skipton

Skipton bills itself as the 'Gateway to the Dales' as if you might simply want to base yourself there to visit the Yorkshire Dales yet it's got plenty to attract visitors in its own right.

​The name has nothing to do with skipping: it means 'Sheep Town', relating to its heritage, trading sheep and woollen goods.They hold a very popular 'Sheep Day' in July, and Yarndale, an event for anyone with a passion for wool and wool-related handicrafts.  

Skipton Castle watches over the town like a matriarch watching their relatives at a party, thinking over the past and reflecting with satisfaction that although there are changes, the family is still strong. Yorkshire isn't short of castles but Skipton is definitely one of the best kept - retaining its room is a distinct advantage. Some may think of Skipton Castle Woods as the castle's back garden but the woods are worth a visit  in their own right. 

---

You can enjoy a different view of the market town by taking a canal boat along the Leeds Liverpool canal, or follow the tow path to see more of Skipton's industrial heritage. The Canal Basin is the setting for the annual Waterway Festival and farmers markets. 

Skipton's high street has managed to retain much of its character, and still holds a market on Mondays, Wednesdays, Friday and Saturdays. The high street is often praised for its good range of independent shops. On the edge of Skipton is one of Yorkshire's best farm shops - Keelham. 

​The auction mart also still attracts good trade and has a novel dual personality, transforming itself into a very special theatre!

---