Leyburn, often described as “A Town for all Seasons,” serves as a picturesque gateway to the scenic wonders of Wensleydale, offering a blend of traditional charm, unique shops, and access to the Yorkshire Dales’ breathtaking landscapes.
Discover Leyburn
At the heart of Wensleydale lies the gateway town of Leyburn, “A Town for all Seasons”. With spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, unusual local shops and cafés, traditional pubs and a weekly market on Fridays, it’s an ideal base for walking, sightseeing, or just watching the world go by.
One of the town’s main attractions is its bustling market, which takes place every Friday and offers a wide range of local produce, crafts, and gifts. Visitors can also explore the town’s many independent shops, cafes, and pubs, which offer a warm welcome and a chance to sample some of the region’s finest food and drink.
For those who love the great outdoors, Leyburn is the perfect base for exploring the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park, with its rolling hills, dramatic landscapes, and abundance of wildlife. Leyburn is the perfect base for any visit to the Yorkshire Dales.
Unlike a lot of places, there is a lot of free parking in Leyburn, as well as a pay and display car park, making the town very car-friendly, for those travelling through: it’s always a good bet for a stop-off on any visit to the Yorkshire Dales.
Places to Stay
Also see our Leyburn hotels page.
Johnnies Cottage a 1 bedroom bolt hole in the heart of Bainbridge, Yorkshire Dales
Johnnies Cottage, Leyburn, DL8 3EF, United Kingdom
Pictures of Leyburn
Latest about Leyburn
Facts About Leyburn
- Leyburn is a market town located in the district of Richmondshire in North Yorkshire, England.
- The town is situated on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
- Leyburn has a population of approximately 2,183 people.
- The town is known for its weekly market, which takes place on Fridays.
- Leyburn has a number of historic buildings, including the 13th-century St. Matthew’s Church.
- The town is home to the Wensleydale Railway, a heritage railway that runs between Leeming Bar and Redmire.
- Leyburn is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with many walking and cycling routes in the area.
- The town is located near a number of popular tourist attractions, including Bolton Castle and Aysgarth Falls.
- Leyburn has a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for visitors.
- The town hosts a number of events throughout the year, including the Leyburn 1940s Weekend and the Leyburn Food and Drink Festival.
Leyburn on the Map
Most larger roads into Wensleydale lead through Leyburn: the A6108 from Richmond and the A684 from Bedale and Northallerton both converge on Leyburn’s pretty marketplace.
FAQs About Leyburn
What is Leyburn known for?
Leyburn is known for its picturesque market town charm, stunning countryside views, and its location as the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Where should I park in Leyburn?
The main market place has free parking, as does Commercial Square (the smaller cobbled area across from the marketplace, next to Campbells supermarket, and the Bolton Arms. There is also a chunk of free parking in Grove Square, which is along the A6108 towards Richmond slightly, next to the King’s Head pub.
On busy days, and market days (Fridays) you’ll find it’s easiest to get a space in the pay-and-display car park, which is found up an alley off the marketplace, alongside the Golden Lion Hotel. Having parked there, take one of the “snickets” (alleyways) to rejoin the marketplace, or walk up the short path and stairs to see the sights and sounds of the town’s Auction Mart, where sheep and cattle are sold once or twice a week.
What are some popular activities to do in Leyburn?
Visitors to Leyburn can enjoy hiking and cycling in the surrounding countryside, exploring the town’s independent shops and cafes, and visiting nearby attractions such as Bolton Castle and the Wensleydale Creamery.
Is Leyburn a good place to stay for a family vacation?
Yes, Leyburn is a great destination for families. There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep kids entertained, and the town has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
What is the best time of year to visit Leyburn?
The best time to visit Leyburn depends on your preferences. Summer is popular for outdoor activities and events, while autumn offers stunning foliage views. Winter can be chilly but cozy, with festive events and markets. Spring is a great time to see the countryside come to life with blooming flowers.
Are there accommodations available in Leyburn?
Yes, there are a variety of accommodations available in Leyburn, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering cottages.
Where Next?
Staying in Leyburn gives you access to the surrounding area of Wensleydale, in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, all of which can use up a full visit. At the top of Wensleydale, Hawes is well worth a visit, and in the other direction, you’ll find Richmond and Swaledale. If you’re returning via the A1, be sure to stop in at Bedale, which is another lovely North Yorkshire market town that’s got a charm of it’s own.
Where Next After Leyburn
After visiting Leyburn, North Yorkshire, there are plenty of other charming towns and villages in the area worth exploring. Just a short drive away is the picturesque town of Richmond, with its cobbled streets, historic castle, and stunning views over the River Swale. Another nearby gem is the market town of Masham, famous for its breweries and home to the Black Sheep Brewery and Theakston Brewery.
For those looking to explore the great outdoors, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is right on Leyburn’s doorstep. Take a scenic drive through the park, stopping off at quaint villages like Hawes and Grassington along the way. Or, for a more active adventure, lace up your hiking boots and tackle one of the many trails that criss-cross the park’s rugged landscape. Whatever your interests, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful corner of Yorkshire.
