Spennithorne

On the north bank of the River Ure in Lower Wensleydale, in an area rich in history, is the little village of Spennithorne.

There is said to have been a church on the site of St. Michael's Church in Spennithorne since 1166 AD, although only fragments of the original building have been found. The present church has been restored and partly rebuilt many times, but three Norman arches survive. The first of these restorations is believed to have been in the 13th century and further alterations followed in the 15th, 17th and 19th centuries.

A few miles from Spennithorne, the ruins of Middleham Castle tower over the lovely village of Middleham. The castle was home to Richard III and known in those days as the Windsor of the North. After a climb to admire the panoramic views, the Castle Keep Tea Rooms offer welcome refreshment.

Nearby Bolton Castle was completed in 1399 and is one of England's best-preserved medieval castles, with its fascinating 600-year history. Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned here. Today, the castle still belongs to Lord Bolton.

A little over two miles away, the market town of Leyburn is well worth a visit for its pubs, restaurants, independent specialist shops and the Wensleydale Railway.