Explore Masham - Places to Stay, Food & Events in North Yorkshire
Masham is a town located in North Yorkshire, governed by North Yorkshire Council (formerly Harrogate). With a population of around 1,000, it sits in the HG4 postcode area. Known for its traditional markets and historic breweries, Masham offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich brewing heritage and vibrant local culture.
Discover the charm of Masham, a delightful market town in North Yorkshire that boasts a unique blend of history and local culture. Renowned for its traditional markets and historic breweries, Masham invites visitors to explore its vibrant community and enjoy its robust brewing heritage. With two working breweries, including the famous Theakston Brewery, beer enthusiasts will find plenty to savor.
Stroll through the largest market place in the district, where you can experience the local flavors and crafts. Don't miss the stunning St Mary's Church, dating back to the seventh century, which stands as a testament to the town's rich past. Whether you're looking to indulge in delicious food and drink or immerse yourself in local events, Masham offers a warm welcome and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Be sure to check out our listings for things to do in Masham and plan your visit today!
Stay in Masham
The Maltings in Masham
Discover a comfortable stay at The Maltings, a charming apartment nestled in the heart of Masham, perfect for exploring Yorkshire.
Old Station Caravan & Camping Park
The White Bear
Experience charming hotel stays and delicious dining at The White Bear, a highly-rated gem nestled in picturesque Masham.
Things to Do in Masham
St Mary's Church, Masham
Discover St Mary's Church, a beautiful and historic Masham landmark with Saxon origins and a towering spire.
Riverside Masham
Discover the peaceful Riverside Masham, a beautiful park perfect for riverside strolls and a short walk to the charming village.
Food & Drink
The Lunchbox
Visit The Lunchbox in Masham for incredible sandwiches, friendly service, and excellent value, highly rated by visitors.
Black Sheep Brewery
Discover the award-winning Black Sheep Brewery in Masham, offering fascinating tours, a welcoming bar, and delicious food amidst stunning Dales scenery.
Interactive Map
View accommodation, attractions, restaurants, and events on the map
Geographic Facts
This town is geographically within the following regions:
- Population
- 1,235
- Postcode
- HG4
- Administrative area
- North Yorkshire Council (formerly Harrogate)
- Dialing code
- 01765
- Timezone
- UTC±00:00
Data sourced from Wikidata and verified public records
Upcoming Events in Masham
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Walkshire in Masham
More Walks in Masham →
Walk: Hackfall Woods near Masham
The popular market town of Masham provides a base for an interesting walk alongside the River Ure and in to Hackfall Woods and the attractive village of Grewelthorpe. The Route what3words for start point: ///spout.mingles.natively Start Point: Car Parking in the central square of Masham Finish Point: Masham Distance: 8.5 Miles GPX Route Map hackfallwoodsnearmashamDownload Walk Description From Masham join the riverside path along the River Ure for 2 miles. On entering Hackfall Woods look out for follies in the woods as well as the tall birch, oak, pine and sycamore trees. After wandering along the many paths in the woods climb away from the woods to the village of Grewelthorpe. The return to Masham involves a short climb to a second area of woodland at Nutwith Common and a descent to the market town of Masham and its two breweries!
Walk: Grewelthorpe and Hackfall
Grewelthorpe, the River Ure, the ancient woodland and follies of Hackfall. The Route What3Words for start point: ///unwind.bootleg.different Start / Finish Point: Grewelthorpe, Ripon HG4 3BW Distance: 4 Miles GPX Route Map grewelthorpe-and-hackfallDownload Walk Description Hackfall Woods lies just outside the village of Grewelthorpe, an expansive area of semi-natural ancient woodland that cloaks the steep banks of the River Ure. Hackfall Woods was bought by John Aislabie in 1731, who most famously laid out the formal water gardens of Studley Royal at nearby Fountains Abbey. His son William transformed Hackfall into a romantic ‘wilderness’ garden with trees, walkways, waterfalls, surprise views and follies, all set on the dramatic slopes above the River Ure. Hackfall Woods has provided inspiration for many of our great artistic minds, including Turner who came here to paint whilst William Wordsworth recommended a visit to the woods en route to the Lake District – Wedgwood even used Hackfall Wood scenes for a dinner service for Catherine II of Russia! It had been neglected for many years and looked destined for ‘redevelopment’ when The Woodland Trust stepped in and bought Hackfall in the late 1980s and has since restored the garden; it now has Grade 1 listed status. Our route from Grewelthorpe heads across farmland and then follows a muddy path that meanders gently down through the woods to join the banks of the River Ure, with thick woodland and tumbling streams all around. The highlight is the path that heads up across the top of the wooded banks to the Ruin at Mowbray Point, which was built in 1767 by William Aislabie as a banqueting house. Its eastern facade was designed to look like a ruined triumphal archway, with magnificent views right across the Vale of Mowbray towards the North York Moors as well as Hackfall Woods beneath your feet and the folly of Mowbray Castle clearly visible in the woods. The Ruin has been restored and is used as a holiday cottage. The path then heads into the steep-sided side-valley of Grewelthorpe Beck, with its series of small waterfalls and weirs.
Walk: Hackfall Woods - Short Route
A blast of woodland in this simple walk through Hackfall Woods. The Route Start / Finish Point: Lay-by on Nutwith Ln, Ripon HG4 3DF Distance: 2 Miles GPX Route Map walkshirehackfallwoodsDownload Walk Description From the layby, keep the wood to the right of you, and walk towards the Public Footpath sign pointing into the wood. Turn right and follow the path into the woods. When the public footpath turns right over a bridge, continue to carry straight on. Follow the clear path until there’s a fork. Take the left hand turn and continue to follow the path as it drops fairly sharply. Cross over two streams and turn right, then right again to the Weeping Rock. Continue along the path, with the river not too far away on the left. This is now part of the Ripon Rowel Walk. The path bends around to the left, and soon there’s a large path branching off to the right. Take this path as it climbs back up, turning right as it bends round and follow it all the way to where the path’s forked, after crossing a stream. Turn left and retrace your footsteps back to the entrance of the wood, and then turn left to return to where you parked.
Walk: Ripon Rowel
The Ripon Rowel Walk is a delightful circular walking route that encompasses the scenic and historic highlights surrounding Ripon, a charming cathedral city in North Yorkshire, England. Known for its ancient landmarks, natural beauty, and peaceful countryside, this area offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions, making it a favourite among walkers and history enthusiasts alike. The Route what3words for start point: ///ounce.tablet.mainframe Start / Finish Point: Ripon Cathedral, Liberty Court House, Minster Rd, Ripon HG4 1QT Distance: 50 Miles GPX Route Map riponrowelDownload Walk Description Ripon, one of England's smallest cities, is steeped in history and tradition. Founded over 1300 years ago, it features an impressive cathedral that dates back to the 7th century. The city is not only a historical treasure but also serves as a gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, an area renowned for its rolling hills, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. The Ripon Rowel Walk, spanning approximately 49 miles, circles this historic city and takes ramblers through a varied landscape of rivers, meadows, and woodland. It offers an excellent opportunity to explore the lesser-known rural areas around Ripon, including the banks of the River Ure and the Ripon Canal, as well as the ancient monuments and charming villages dotted throughout the region. Highlights of the Ripon Rowel Walk The walk is well-marked and can be undertaken in sections, allowing walkers to tailor their experience to their preferences and abilities. Some of the key highlights include: Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the largest and best-preserved ruined Cistercian monasteries in England, located just a few miles from Ripon. The adjoining Studley Royal Park features beautifully landscaped gardens and a deer park. Newby Hall: An 18th-century country house situated along the route, known for its exquisite interiors and gardens. It's a splendid example of Georgian architecture and design. Hackfall Woods: A historic woodlands area featuring dramatic views, ancient trees, and a series of follies and water features, restored by the Woodland Trust. Markenfield Hall: An early 14th-century moated manor house, one of the finest surviving examples of its kind in England, offering a glimpse into medieval life. Masham: A market town famous for its family-run breweries, quaint shops, and vibrant community events, including an annual sheep fair. Planning Your Visit For those planning to embark on the Ripon Rowel Walk, it's advisable to check the weather conditions and wear appropriate footwear and clothing, as parts of the route can become muddy after rain. The walk is accessible year-round, but spring and early autumn are particularly pleasant times to visit due to the mild weather and the changing colors of the landscape. Whether you're a seasoned walker seeking a new adventure or a history buff eager to explore the heritage of North Yorkshire, the Ripon Rowel Walk offers a rich and satisfying experience that combines the best of both worlds.
About Masham, North Yorkshire
Masham is a market town and civil parish located in North Yorkshire, governed by North Yorkshire Council. With a population of approximately 1,235 residents, it is known for its vibrant local culture and historic breweries, including two working breweries that reflect its brewing heritage. The town features the largest market place in the district, making it a hub for traditional markets.
Where Is Masham?
Masham is situated in lower Wensleydale, on the western bank of the River Ure, approximately 11 miles southwest of Ripon. The town is connected by the A6108 road, linking it to Leyburn and Richmond. Nearby villages such as Warthermarske and Fearby are just a short drive away, enhancing its accessibility.
What Is Masham Known For?
Masham is renowned for its largest market place in the district and its rich brewing history, emphasizing its character as a market town. The town received its first market charter in 1251, marking its importance in regional trade. Additionally, St Mary's Church, most likely founded in the seventh century, stands as a significant historical landmark.
In 2014, the town gained visibility when the Tour de France Stage 1 passed through, showcasing its community spirit and charm. For more information, visit the Wikipedia page on Masham.
The History of Masham
The first permanent settlers in Masham were the Angles, establishing a community that would endure through centuries. The town faced challenges, including a Viking invasion in 900, which resulted in the burning of the church. With its market charter granted in 1251, Masham solidified its role as a trading hub. The arrival of the Masham branch of the North Eastern Railway in 1875 further connected the town to the wider region, although passenger services ceased in 1930. Goods traffic continued until 1963, shaping the town's economic landscape.
Exploring Masham and Nearby Yorkshire
With 14 attractions to discover, including historic breweries and scenic walks, Masham offers plenty for visitors. The town hosts various events throughout the year, enhancing its community atmosphere. For food lovers, there are over 16 dining options available, making it easy to enjoy local cuisine.
Masham's proximity to nearby villages such as Warthermarske and Binsoe, both within 2 miles, provides additional exploration opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views along the walks near Masham, which showcase the beautiful Yorkshire countryside.
How Far Is Masham from Ripon?
Masham is approximately 11 miles southwest of Ripon, making it a short drive for visitors looking to explore the historic city.