Attractions and Places To See around Thornton Watlass - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Thornton Watlass include a blend of historical landmarks and natural features. This charming village is situated on the eastern slopes of the Ure Valley, near the entrance to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Visitors can explore ancient sites, cultural locations, and diverse natural landscapes. The region offers a variety of experiences for those interested in history and outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Thornton Watlass
- The most popular attractions is The Druid's Temple, a man-made monument that resembles ancient stone circles. This 19th-century folly was constructed to provide employment for local workers.
- Another must-see spot is Hackfall Wood, a natural area featuring waterfalls, dense woodland trails, and a river. Managed by the Woodland Trust, it includes grottos, ruins, and water features.
- Visitors also love Middleham Castle, a historical castle. This site is historically significant as the childhood home of Richard III.
- Thornton Watlass is known for historical sites, natural features, and cultural locations. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to market towns.
- The attractions around Thornton Watlass are appreciated by the komoot community, with 134 upvotes and 127 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
The Druid's Temple
Highlight • Monument
The Druids Temple was built to alleviate local unemployment, allowing William Danby, a wealthy landowner of the time to pay workers a shilling a day for their labour.
At less than 200 years old, it is nonetheless an atmospheric and intriguing location.
Despite its origin being common knowledge, myths and rumours of mystic practices have sprung up over its lifetime with tales of Devil worship and harrowing frights experienced by those who have spent the night. It's a bit spooky even in daylight hours!
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Masham Market Square
Highlight • Restaurant
Masham is a town with two breweries and a top selection of pubs for your post exercise refreshments!
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Middleham Castle
Highlight • Castle
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Hackfall Wood
Highlight • Waterfall
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Bedale Market Town
Highlight • Cafe
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
A hidden gem and interesting story behind the construction of the Temple. Beautiful views and an interesting undulating walk through stunning countryside.
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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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Bedale 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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the drive to the temple was well worth it. You will find a cafe, and family area, before a short walk up to the temple. the set up of the rock formations is mind blowing, but very interesting. a big tick for me to visit again.
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Hackfall Wood is managed and has been restored by the Woodland Trust. It's a wonderful place to explore with waterfalls, woodland trails, a stream and river and several grottos, ruins and water features to visit. It has previously won the conservation category at the Europa Nostra societies for a 18th century planned landscape.
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This isn't an actual temple, it's a 19th century folly created to provide employment for local people by the wealthy landowner William Danby. It's styled as a smaller version of Stone Henge and although only 200 years old it's still atmospheric and worth a visit.
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Hackfall Wood is managed and has been restored by the Woodland Trust. It's a wonderful place to explore with waterfalls, dense woodland trails, a stream and river and several grottos, ruins and water features to visit. It has previously won the conservation category at the Europa Nostra societies for an 18th century planned landscape.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore near Thornton Watlass?
The region is rich in history. You can visit Middleham Castle, historically significant as the childhood home of Richard III. Also, explore the 12th-century St Mary's Church in Thornton Watlass itself, known for its stained glass and Anglo-Saxon cross-heads. Nearby, the privately owned Jervaulx Abbey Ruins offer a glimpse into medieval Cistercian life, and the Gospel Hill Tumulus is a Scheduled Ancient Monument for those interested in prehistoric features.
Are there any unique natural features or viewpoints around Thornton Watlass?
Yes, the area boasts several natural highlights. Hackfall Wood, managed by the Woodland Trust, is a wonderful place with stunning waterfalls, dense woodland trails, and a river. You can also find Harmby Waterfall and Redmire Force within Wensleydale, offering scenic spots for a visit. Thornton Watlass is also on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, providing breathtaking scenery and rolling hills.
What family-friendly attractions are available near Thornton Watlass?
Families will enjoy exploring The Druid's Temple, a quirky 19th-century folly that resembles ancient stone circles, which kids often love to explore. Hackfall Wood is also family-friendly with its trails, waterfalls, and grottos. The village green in Thornton Watlass features a children's playground, and the nearby Bedale Market Town offers a vibrant atmosphere with its cobbled square.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Thornton Watlass?
The area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various running trails, such as the 'Church of St Mary loop from Thornton Watlass' or the 'Masham – Masham Market Square loop'. For hiking, there are easy routes like the 'Masham Market Square – Black Sheep Brewery loop'. Road cycling is also popular, with routes like 'Snape Castle – Bedale Market Town loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the respective guides: Running Trails around Thornton Watlass, Easy hikes around Thornton Watlass, and Road Cycling Routes around Thornton Watlass.
Are there any charming towns or villages to visit nearby?
Absolutely. Bedale Market Town is a short distance away, known for its cobbled Georgian square and a 750-year-old market tradition. It also features historic buildings like Bedale Hall. Another charming option is Masham, with its large Georgian market square, independent businesses, and two breweries, Black Sheep Brewery and Theakstons Brewery.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Thornton Watlass?
Visitors particularly enjoy the unique and atmospheric nature of sites like The Druid's Temple, often finding it a perfect spot for a break and exploration. The natural beauty and restorative efforts at Hackfall Wood, with its waterfalls and trails, are also highly appreciated. The historical significance of places like Middleham Castle also draws considerable interest.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, the area offers options for refreshments. The Buck Inn in Thornton Watlass village overlooks the green and provides accommodation and meals. In nearby Masham, you'll find a top selection of pubs and two breweries. Bedale Market Town also has a number of great cafes, including the cycling-specific Tandem Cafe.
Are there any less crowded walks or hidden gems in the area?
For peaceful hiking, the Iron Bridge Maunby provides access to quiet paths. The Thornton Watlass Nature Reserve is a local haven for wildlife, offering a serene experience away from more bustling spots. Exploring the various grottos and ruins within Hackfall Wood can also feel like discovering hidden gems.
What is the best time to visit Thornton Watlass for outdoor activities?
The Yorkshire Dales region, including Thornton Watlass, is beautiful throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to early autumn, when the weather is most favorable for hiking, cycling, and exploring natural sites like Hackfall Wood. However, historical sites like Middleham Castle and the village attractions can be enjoyed year-round, though some outdoor trails might be muddy in winter.
Are there any cultural diversions or museums nearby?
While Thornton Watlass itself is primarily historical and natural, nearby Leyburn offers cultural diversions such as the Quirky Cow and Wensleydale Galleries. The market towns of Bedale and Masham also provide a cultural experience with their historic architecture and market traditions.
Are there any circular walks available around Thornton Watlass?
Yes, there are several circular routes that allow you to explore the area. For running, you can find routes like the 'Church of St Mary loop from Thornton Watlass'. For easy hikes, options include the 'Masham Market Square – Black Sheep Brewery loop'. These routes often incorporate local landmarks and natural beauty. More details can be found in the Running Trails around Thornton Watlass and Easy hikes around Thornton Watlass guides.
Most popular routes around Thornton Watlass
Most popular attractions around Thornton Watlass
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