keld

Keld is a village in the Swaledale area of the Yorkshire Dales National Park in North Yorkshire, England. It sits at the upper end of Swaledale and is set in a valley landscape of stone houses, fields bordered by dry stone walls, and small streams. The surrounding countryside is typical of the Dales, featuring moorland and rugged scenery that attracts walkers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Historically, Keld developed as a rural farming settlement in a remote upland valley. The wider Swaledale region has a history of lead mining and quarrying, though Keld itself has remained a small and largely agricultural community. In modern times the local economy relies mainly on agriculture and tourism, with visitors drawn to the scenery, walking routes, and proximity to other Dales villages.

The name Keld is believed to have Old Norse or early English origins, with scholarly discussion suggesting a connection to water features such as springs or streams in the area. Over the centuries, the spelling and pronunciation of the name have varied in historical records, reflecting broader patterns of language change in the region.

Today, Keld preserves much of its traditional character, featuring stone cottages and a rural pace of life. The village serves as a starting point or rest stop for walkers exploring Swaledale and the Yorkshire Dales, while nearby towns and accommodations provide services for residents and visitors. Conservation and land-management efforts help maintain the landscape, built heritage, and the small-scale economy that sustains the community.