Nestled in a peaceful corner of the breathtaking Wharfedale valley, the enchanting village of Appletreewick offers a perfect weekend retreat that feels like stepping into a bygone era. This picturesque North Yorkshire hamlet, located just two miles from Burnsall and five miles north of Bolton Abbey, provides a serene escape for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.
A Walk Through Centuries of History
Affectionately known as 'Aptrick' to locals, Appletreewick is defined by its stunning stone architecture. Many of its distinctive houses date from the 12th, 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, perched on a hillside above the River Wharfe. These historic homes offer spectacular, long-distance views across the dramatic, rolling valleys of the Yorkshire Dales. Remarkably, this exquisite village has changed little over time, with a population of just 207 residents recorded in the 2021 census.
The village's significance is long-standing; it is mentioned in the Domesday Book and thrived as a key market town in the first half of the 14th century. A stroll down its main street is a journey through history, lined with ancient cottages and even a traditional red telephone box. Historically, its residents held a diverse range of occupations, from farmers and weavers to blacksmiths and innkeepers.
Onion Fairs and Tudor Halls
Appletreewick was once famous for its annual Onion Fair, a testament to the crop's importance in local trade. A lane named Onion Lane remains as a lasting tribute. The fair was such a major social event that a notorious brawl once erupted there between two rival families: the Nortons of Rylstone Manor and the Cliffords of Skipton Castle.
The village also boasts High Hall, a Grade II Listed Tudor-style building restored in the early 17th century by Sir William Craven. Craven, who was born in a cottage opposite the hall, later became Sheriff and Lord Mayor of London. That cottage was later transformed into part of the St John Baptist Church.
The Perfect Rural Getaway
Today, Appletreewick is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In summer, the village comes alive with hikers, ramblers, and cyclists drawn to the captivating landscapes. Visitors can enjoy fly fishing on the River Wharfe, renowned for its grayling and brown trout, or stop for a meal and a pint at The New Inn.
Perhaps the best insight into the village's character came from a 2009 study on rural driving, which crowned Appletreewick 'Britain's Friendliest Town to Drive Through'. For anyone seeking a charming, historic, and genuinely welcoming escape in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, this timeless village is an essential destination.
