Kettlewell

Kettlewell is a small village and civil parish in the North Yorkshire Dales district of North Yorkshire, England. Located in the valley of the River Ure, it is situated approximately 10 miles (16 km) southeast of the market town of Richmond and 12 miles (19 km) northwest of Masham. The village is nestled within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, offering scenic landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities.

The area around Kettlewell is known for its natural beauty, with rolling hills, moorland, and limestone cliffs. The village itself is characterized by its traditional stone-built cottages and a historic pub, the *Kettlewell Inn*, which dates back to the 17th century. The local economy has historically relied on agriculture, particularly sheep farming, though tourism now plays a significant role.

Kettlewell is also notable for its connection to the study of natural selection. In the mid-19th century, the village served as a key location for the work of naturalist Hugh Strickland and artist Edward Baines Jr., who observed the peppered moth (*Biston betularia*) during their research on industrial melanism. Their findings contributed to the understanding of evolutionary biology and adaptation in response to environmental changes.

The village is served by a single bus route, with limited public transport connections. Nearby attractions include the nearby town of Richmond, the historic market town of Masham, and the scenic Malham Cove. Kettlewell is accessible via the A683 road, which links it to the surrounding area.

The civil parish of Kettlewell includes the hamlets of **Grasmere** and **Grasmere Bridge**, as well as parts of the surrounding countryside. The population of the parish is relatively small, with the village itself being a quiet, rural community. The area remains largely undeveloped, preserving its historic and natural charm.