Skipton, often known as “The Gateway to the Dales,” is well situated for exploring all that the Dales has to offer, and is just a short drive from York, the Lake District, and the West Coast. This charming market town boasts an antique castle that is available to the public, a stunning mediaeval parish church, and a colourful market that fills the cobblestone setts on either side of the high street. It has much to offer the eager tourist. Skipton was rated the “greatest place to live” in Britain by The Sunday Times in 2014, and two years later it was designated one of the top nine towns in Yorkshire and the North-East. At Embsay and Bolton Abbey, steam railroads offer frequent excursions, and the Leeds to Liverpool Canal travels through Skipton, passing through the 1-mile-long Foulridge Tunnel and the 5-rise locks at Bingley within a short distance. Golf, swimming, squash, tennis, and snooker are all offered nearby, and the great public transportation allows you to leave your car at home!