Located on the banks of the River Nidd, Pateley Bridge is a historic market town in North Yorkshire. It forms part of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is home to the oldest sweet shop in the world, which is housed within a charming building that dates back to 1661.
Things to do in Pateley Bridge
Don’t miss the Nidderdale Museum, which details the people, events and industries that have shaped the town. It occupies a former workhouse and comprises 11 rooms where interiors from historic homes have been recreated. Step inside a Victorian school room, a general store and a cobbler’s workshop where antique tools and vintage costumes are on display.
Nestled in a wooded area high above the town are the remains of St. Mary’s, a picturesque church that dates back to the 13th century. While the building is now roofless, it is topped by a tower that was added in the 17th century and is accessible to the public on Heritage Open Days. Be sure to stroll through the adjacent burial ground to see gravestones dating back hundreds of years.
Passing through the town is the Nidderdale Way, an 87-kilometre-long footpath that follows the northern and southern sides of the dale. Slightly shorter is the Six Dales Trail, which passes through Pateley Bridge as it connects Otley and Middleham. In addition to the spectacular scenery of Nidderdale, it takes in the picturesque landscapes of Washburndale, Colsterdale and Wensleydale.
Getting around Pateley Bridge
Pateley Bridge is around a one-hour drive from Leeds and 40 minutes from Leeds Bradford Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular buses connect to Pateley Bridge and the town is small enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of exploring the surrounding area.