Area Guide

Langthwaite is one of the few villages in Arkengarthdale, North Yorkshire. It is also the largest and the main settlement in the dale and only 3 miles north of Reeth. The road leading to Langthwaite from Reeth is winding and unfenced, sheep roam freely and there are fantastic views of the rugged and wild landscape that is so defining of Arkengarthdale.

Visiting Langthwaite is like stepping back in time and the oldy worldly feel is certainly what makes this tiny village so special and endearing. There are many walks and cycling routes from the village. There are low level circular walks along Arkle Beck to Reeth and for the more energetic, there are high level hikes up Fremington Edge, Pinseat and Calver Hill to name a few! There are also lots of mountain bike routes nearby and of course, miles and miles of road rides to pick from!

Whilst visiting Langthwaite you will become familiar with the babble from the Arkle Beck, a tributary of the River Swale. The Arkle Beck runs through the Arkengarthdale Valley and through the middle of Langthwaite. The centre of the village is accessed over a beautiful stone bridge over the Arkle Beck. This bridge is recognisable due to it being on the opening sequence of the original All Creatures Great and Small TV Series.

If you want to experience a ‘proper’ Yorkshire Dales pub, then Langthwaite is home to The Red Lion Inn, which also featured in some episodes of All Creatures Great and Small. The pub is situated in the centre of the village with plenty of outdoor benches and a traditional, old-fashioned bar. It is worth a visit to meet the landlady alone, as she is a fountain of knowledge on the area, but the beer is well kept too. This is an ideal spot to stop for a drink after a local hike!

On the other side of the bridge is the other half of the village and a small village green, with a bench, phone box and the remains of an old horse waggon from the lead mining era. As parking is limited in the centre of the village there is also a council car park available for up to 20 cars on the main road as you enter the village.

You’ll be surprised to see there was once Wesleyan Chapel and a school, both sadly no longer used for their original purpose but still give a flavour of the area’s heritage. Still very much in use is the beautiful, St Mary’s Church. St Mary’s Church is larger than you would think given the size of its parish, it is very well maintained with stunning lancet windows.

Just up the road is The CB Inn which offers superb food, and extensive wine and gin menu and a roaring fire. There is also a small playground for little ones and outdoor benches allowing you to soak up the fantastic views of Arkengarthdale with your drink of choice.