Attractions and Places To See around Finghall - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Finghall, a village in North Yorkshire's Lower Wensleydale, offers a combination of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural sites. The area features a diverse landscape, including historical buildings, market towns, and natural features like waterfalls and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Visitors can explore various points of interest in and around the immediate vicinity.
Best attractions and places to see around Finghall
- The most popular attractions is Ruins of Easby Abbey, a historical site located by the River Swale. This site features well-preserved monastic ruins, including a refectory, gatehouse, and canons' dormitory, dating back to its founding in 1152.
- Another must-see spot is Middleham Castle, a historic castle. Visitors can explore the ruins of this significant historical landmark, which is also a notable point along the 38-mile Six Dales Trail.
- Visitors also love Masham Market Square, a settlement and historical site. This Georgian market square is one of the largest in England, featuring independent businesses, pubs, and a town hall, and is known for its annual sheep fair.
- Finghall is known for its historical sites, market towns, and natural landscapes. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient abbeys and castles to bustling market squares and scenic routes.
- The attractions around Finghall are appreciated by the komoot community, with 128 upvotes and 110 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 22, 2026
Ruins of Easby Abbey
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Masham Market Square
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Masham is a town with two breweries and a top selection of pubs for your post exercise refreshments!
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Middleham Castle
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Coverdale Descent
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Bedale Market Town
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There are a number of great cafes in the town or for something cycling specific try the Tandem Cafe on the Bedale Road heading north east from the centre.
There a number of interesting historic buildings in Bedale, including Bedale Hall, the Leech House (used by an apothecary to store leeches) and the Old Grammar School.
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Tips from the Community
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 fabulousā¦ā¦.
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Masham is a small market town that is built around a large square. It has held a market charter since 1250 and thrived due to the easy access of the flocks of sheep from nearby Fountains and Jervaulx Abbeys. There is still a sheep fair every September where huge numbers of sheep are bought and sold.
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BedaleĀ is a small market town in the district of Hambleton. It is on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and is ideally situated for many of the Dales attractions.
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Masham Market Place is one of the largest in England. It has elegant Georgian houses that stand around its periphery and an ancient cross with cobbled area at its centre.
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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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Easby Abbey was founded in 1152 but demolished in the mid 1500s. The ruins are free to visit, with information boards set up and managed by English Heritage. The parish church is still used and contains 13th century wall paintings.
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Bedale is a thriving market town centred round a cobbled, Georgian square. It still continues its 750 year tradition of holding its market on a Tuesday. As it is on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales it makes for a great base for exploring further. There are a number of great cafes in the town or for something cycling specific try the Tandem Cafe on the Bedale Road heading north east from the centre. There a number of interesting historic buildings in Bedale, including Bedale Hall, the Leech House (used by an apothecary to store leeches) and the Old Grammar School.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in and around Finghall?
Finghall and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the 12th-century St. Andrew's Church in Finghall, known for its Anglo-Saxon stonework. The historic Finghall Railway Station, part of the Wensleydale Railway heritage line, is also a notable site. Further afield, explore the well-preserved monastic ruins of Easby Abbey, the impressive Middleham Castle, or the historic market town of Bedale Market Town with its Georgian square.
Are there any natural attractions or scenic spots near Finghall?
Yes, Finghall is on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, offering diverse natural beauty. You can explore the Wild Wood, which local legend says inspired *The Wind in the Willows*. Nearby waterfalls include Harmby Waterfall, Richmond Falls, and the well-known Aysgarth Falls, approximately 10.6 miles away. The Catterick Stone Circle also offers a peaceful natural setting.
What family-friendly activities are available around Finghall?
Families visiting Finghall have several options. Thorp Perrow Arboretum and Wildlife Park is about 5.5 miles away, offering gardens and animal encounters. For a unique experience, The Forbidden Corner, a garden full of follies and surprises, is approximately 5.7 miles from the village. Other nearby attractions include Big Sheep and Little Cow Farm, Lightwater Valley theme park, and Crazy Kingdom indoor play area.
Where can I find walking or hiking trails near Finghall?
The area around Finghall is excellent for walking. There are local routes like the "Walk Through Time" in Finghall village and a route exploring the Wild Wood. For more structured hikes, you can find numerous options, including easy trails, by visiting the Easy hikes around Finghall guide. Examples include routes around Jervaulx Abbey and Middleham Castle.
Are there cycling routes for mountain biking or road cycling near Finghall?
Absolutely. The region offers a variety of cycling routes. For mountain biking, explore options in the MTB Trails around Finghall guide, with routes like the Middleham Castle ā Bolton Castle loop. Road cyclists can find suitable tours in the Road Cycling Routes around Finghall guide, such as the Pateley Bridge ā Masham Market Square loop.
What is the best time of year to visit Finghall and its attractions?
Finghall and the surrounding Lower Wensleydale area are enjoyable throughout the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, walking, and exploring gardens. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can provide a peaceful, atmospheric experience, especially around historical sites. The Polar Express train runs from Finghall Railway Station during certain times of the year, typically in winter.
Are there any unique cultural experiences or events in the area?
The region hosts various cultural experiences. Finghall Railway Station is part of a heritage railway and was famously used as 'Rainby Halt' in *All Creatures Great and Small*. Nearby Masham Market Square is known for its annual sheep fair, celebrating its rural history. You can also find traditional pubs like The Queens Head Pub in Finghall, which has been an inn since 1789.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Finghall?
Visitors frequently praise the historical depth and natural beauty of the area. For instance, the ruins of Easby Abbey are appreciated for their picturesque setting and well-preserved structures, making them a popular spot for photos. The Georgian charm and independent businesses of Masham Market Square also receive high marks for their vibrant atmosphere.
Are there any castles or abbeys besides Easby and Middleham that I can visit?
Yes, the region boasts several other significant historical sites. You can visit Bolton Castle (approximately 9.3 miles away) and Richmond Castle (about 6.9 miles away), both offering rich history and impressive architecture. The atmospheric ruins of Jervaulx Abbey, dating back to 1156, are also within reach.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions in Finghall?
Yes, Finghall itself has The Queens Head Pub, a historic inn. The nearby market towns like Bedale Market Town and Masham Market Square offer a wider selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Many walking and cycling routes also pass by establishments where you can refuel.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions in the Finghall area?
Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring the Thorny Keld spring on Blew House Lane, which was the original water supply for Finghall village. The Catterick Stone Circle offers a tranquil, less-frequented spot for nature lovers. For a touch of local history, seek out the distinct red brick buildings of the Methodist Chapel and Southwick Grange in the village.
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