Littondale: A Glacial Valley Where Time Stands Still
Nestled within a classic u-shaped glacial valley and surrounded by vast expanses of farmland, Littondale offers an unparalleled sense of peace and tranquillity. This small, peaceful dale in Yorkshire provides an authentic taste of England's rural heartland, with its historic villages and scenic walking trails evoking a bygone era of country living.
A Landscape Steeped in History
Archaeologists have uncovered numerous prehistoric and later settlements throughout the valley, revealing a rich tapestry of human habitation. During the medieval period, the dale was predominantly managed by several monastic houses, adding to its deep historical roots. Today, Littondale consists of several charming settlements, including Hawkswick, Arncliffe, and Litton, each characterised by farmhouses dating back to the 17th century.
The River Skirfare: Contributing to the valley's serene atmosphere is the stunning River Skirfare, which winds through the farmland and valley floor before merging with the larger River Wharfe. Known for its remarkably clear, shallow waters, this river meanders gracefully but vanishes for portions of the year as seasonal conditions shift. Near Litton, the stream trickles away, disappearing beneath the ground to reveal an unusual limestone landscape, adding a unique geological feature to the area.
Arncliffe: The Heart of Littondale
Arncliffe stands as one of the principal villages in the region, boasting considerable fame despite its compact size. Recognised by households across Britain, it served as the original backdrop and filming location for the much-loved soap Emmerdale Farm. The village pub, the Falcon, was featured as the Woolpack Inn, though visitor feedback suggests it has seen better days. One TripAdvisor guest remarked, "We had read about this tiny pub. It had been featured on the TV soap Emmerdale many moons ago, and it did not disappoint! The landlord was straight out of central casting."
The area is adorned with enchanting stone cottages and the delightful Church of St Oswald. Constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries, this listed building is believed to have been developed from an original Saxon place of worship. Positioned at the centre of the village, the church continues to attract curious visitors and was once regularly visited by the renowned Victorian poet and novelist Charles Kingsley. His time there is thought to have influenced his celebrated children's story, The Water Babies, penned in 1873.
A Paradise for Walkers and Cyclists
Many visitors treat Littondale as a base for rambling, parking in one of its villages to tackle the Yorkshire Dales terrain. Most trails are circular, returning you directly to your starting point while exploring valleys and peaks en route. The Littondale to Kettlewell walk is a well-loved route, starting in Arncliffe and leading across the shoulder of Birks in Kettlewell, where you can pause for refreshments before returning into Littondale.
Alternatively, the slightly over five-mile walk from Arncliffe to Litton and back provides a leisurely two-hour countryside stroll. This route allows you to soak up the picturesque beauty of Yorkshire, with opportunities to stop at charming village pubs along the way. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, Littondale's trails offer something for everyone, making it a true paradise for walkers and cyclists seeking to immerse themselves in England's timeless countryside.
