Bedale is located mid-way between the Yorkshire Dales to its west and the North Yorkshire Moors to its east. The town is just a mile off the A1, providing a convenient access point to the Yorkshire Dales along the A684 and west on to Leyburn. In common with other towns on the outskirts of the Yorkshire Dales it claims the name 'Gateway to the Dales'.
It's a good place to stock up on any essentials that you might need for your holiday in the Yorkshire Dales or indeed Yorkshire Moors, or a place to stay if you prefer a lively town to return to after a day's walking rather than the solitude of the fells.
Bedale is a thriving market town - markets held on Tuesdays. There is free parking in the market place and just off Bridge Street which is quite unusual in today's England.
Bedale is one of the towns on the ancient drover's route that cattlemen drove their cattle along on the way to market. Its long history as a town on trading crossroads and market town ensured its prosperity and continued survival. There remains a 14th century market cross at the top of Emgate and some handsome Georgian buildings.
Places to visit in and near Bedale
- The public park has a preserved Ice House and of all things a Leech House, both of which were very essential a couple of centuries ago.
- Thorp Perrow Arboretum near Bedale - for good woodland walks spotting the unsuall trees in the 85 acres. There's also a picnic area, tea room, Bird of Prey and a Mammal centre
- Big Sheep and Little Cow - open farm attraction for young children. Open February to October
Explore other towns and villages in the Yorkshire Dales....