Skipton, dubbed “The Gateway to the Dales,” is ideally situated for exploring all that the Dales has to offer, as well as York, the Lake District, and the West Coast. This charming market town has enough to offer the passionate visitor, including an open-to-the-public castle, a wonderful mediaeval parish church, and a vibrant market occupying the cobblestone setts on either side of the high street. Skipton was rated Britain’s “greatest place to live” in 2014, and among the nine best towns in Yorkshire and the North-East two years later by The Sunday Times. The Leeds to Liverpool Canal goes through Skipton, with the 1 mile long Foulridge Tunnel and the 5-rise locks at Bingley within a short distance, and steam railways with frequent excursions are available at Embsay and Bolton Abbey. Golf, swimming, squash, tennis, and snooker are all accessible in the area, and the superb public transportation allows you to leave your car at home!
