settle

Settle is a market town and civil parish in the Craven district of North Yorkshire, England. It lies on the River Ribble at the eastern edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and acts as a gateway town for visitors exploring the Dales. The town’s history as a market settlement dates to the medieval period, and today its compact center retains traditional stone buildings, a market square, and a range of independent shops, pubs, and inns. The surrounding parish includes the village of Giggleswick.

The Settle-Carlton Line railway passes through the town, linking Settle with Carlisle. The route is notable for its scenic views and a sequence of viaducts, including the Ribblehead Viaduct, making it popular with rail enthusiasts and travelers seeking a countryside journey.

Tourism and outdoor recreation drive much of the local economy. The area is a base for walkers and climbers exploring the Three Peaks and other Pennine landscapes, as well as caving and cycling. Settle hosts local markets and events and contains cultural facilities such as the town’s historic halls and venues that host performances and community activities.

Governance: Settle is a civil parish with a town council, within the Craven District of North Yorkshire. It is part of a wider rural area that includes nearby villages and countryside, maintaining a distinct identity as a market town serving residents and visitors alike.