Middleham

Residents of Middleham are often quick to tell you that Shakespeare got it all wrong in his portrayal of Richard III as a murdering scheming villain, and Richard of Gloucester, as he was known before he became king, was a popular, philanthropic figure, who owned a castle in Middleham and looked after his tenants in a wise and just manner. A much weather beaten stone wild boar - Richard’s symbol – can be in the Upper Square outside the Castle.

The principle industry in this former market town is race horses, and whether walking, cycling or arriving by bus your are fairly certain to see a line of horses out being exercised by their trainers.

The town enjoyed importance in the 18th and early 19th centuries because of its position on the stagecoach networks across the North. Fine old inns and handsome houses still convey the atmosphere of a place of some importance and prestige. Middleham Castle is well worth a visit, and walkers who use the various week day and weekend Dales Bus services have some fine routes to follow between bus routes – to East Witton and Jervaulx Abbey, to Coverham and Calbergh in Coverdale, along Middleham Low Moor to Pen Hill for West Witton, and over the fell to West Burton.

Bus times can be checked on the Dalesbus website.

Local services: pubs, cafes, shops, accommodation, toilets