Masham
Masham
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Mashamshire’s early history is shrouded in mystery, yet several intriguing clues offer glimpses into its past. At Ilton and on Gregory Hill, which is aptly named “Saxon for watchtower,” there are remnants of ancient earthworks. Fearby boasts a field named “Standing Stones,” and Roomer Common holds evidence of a Roman marching camp. Additionally, the landscape is marked by lynchets, early terraced formations designed to aid cultivation, scattered across the area’s hills.
The tapestry of Masham’s history is woven with threads from the Romans, Angles, and Vikings. Remarkably, the Vikings not only invaded but also introduced sheep farming to the region, a legacy that remains a defining aspect of the town’s identity.
Masham was a prominent presence in the North Riding of Yorkshire, encompassing several townships within its parish. Over time, these townships evolved into separate civil parishes, and in the 20th century, Masham Moor was divided among various parishes.
One of Masham’s most notable landmarks is St. Mary’s Church, whose origins trace back to possibly the seventh century. The church primarily reflects Norman architecture, augmented by fifteenth-century additions. It’s worth noting that the parish was designated a “peculiar,” as the archbishop’s oversight was limited due to the considerable distance.
During the Middle Ages, Masham flourished as a small town with a diverse range of industries, including milling, mining, cloth production, and tanning. Its proximity to Jervaulx and Fountains Abbeys, renowned for their extensive sheep flocks, solidified Masham’s role as a significant sheep market. This historical importance is evident in the town’s spacious market square and the presence of charming Georgian houses.
In terms of transportation, the Masham branch of the North Eastern Railway served the town from 1875. Passenger services, however, ceased in 1930, while goods traffic continued until 1963. The station was located on the other side of the River Ure at Low Burton.
Masham’s rich historical tapestry, architectural heritage, and enduring traditional industries collectively contribute to its unique and noteworthy character.
Shopping in Masham
Bentleys Of Masham is your premier destination for quality outdoor clothing, equipment, and unique shooting-inspired gifts. As an independent retailer, we take pride in offering an ever-expanding range of top-quality UK-made products. Our carefully curated selection includes renowned brands such as Rab, Paramo, Mountain Equipment, Fjäll Raven, Meindl, Aigle, Joules, and Tilley.
Visit us at 1-3 Silver Street, Masham, HG4 4DX, or contact us at 01765 688043. We’re open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:15 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. Explore our collection, and chances are we can source exactly what you’re looking for at the right price.
Discover The Curious Merchant at 22 Market Place, Masham, HG4 4EG, for carefully curated homewares, eclectic decorative antiques, and haberdashery. Our selection features small makers and European collections. Connect with us at 01765 689811 or visit www.thecuriousmerchant.com.
At Nearly New Cashmere Co, we offer immaculate, reconditioned 100% cashmere for both ladies and gents at reasonable prices. Find us in the Co-op car park (Moving to The Old Estate Yard, Masham – Apr ’23) or contact us at 01765 688991. Explore our collection at www.nearlynewcashmere.co.uk,
Indulge your sweet tooth at Bah Humbugs, a real retro sweet shop in Masham. From old-time classics to modern delights, we offer liquorice, fudge, hampers, pick’n’mix boxes, and children’s party bags. Visit us at 2 Market Place, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4EB, or explore our offerings at www.bahhumbugs.com.
Discover the artistry of Albion – Craft Silver Smith & Lapiderist at 17A Silver Street, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4DX. We specialize in manufacturing, commissions, and repairs of gemstone cutting & polishing, rocks, and dinosaur fossils. Reach us at 01765 688245 or visit albioncraftsilversmiths.webador.co.uk.
Joneva is your go-to spot in Masham for gourmet sweets, treats, luxury chocolates, and local cheeses. Explore our delicious flavors of award-winning ice cream and browse our fabulous range of gifts and greeting cards. Visit us at 7 Market Place, Masham, or explore more at www.jonevaofmasham.co.uk
Support a meaningful cause at Herriot Hospice Homecare, providing care and support for people with terminal illness and bereavement across Hambleton and Richmondshire. Connect with us at 01609 777413 or visit www.herriothh.org.uk.
Masham Gallery is your destination for high-quality contemporary art & craft, along with a diverse range of unusual gifts. Take advantage of our framing service. Explore our offerings at 24 Market Place, Masham, or visit www.mashamgallery.co.uk.
Discover decorative handmade art glass at Uredale Glass, featuring small gifts, architectural glass, lighting, and available for commissions. Visit us at King’s Head Yard, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4EF, or explore our collection at www.uredale.co.uk.
Visit W S Rogers & Son, your local family butcher offering all-local produce. We’re open Monday to Wednesday and Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm, and Saturday morning. Find us at 14 Church St, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4DR.
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Accommodation in Masham
Morton House And The Stable Block Accommodating 2 – 15 guests, Morton House and its attached Stable Block are privately situated within a short walking distance of Masham market square, making it an ideal choice for multi-generational family and group stays. This Grade 2 listed farmhouse offers 7 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and comfortable amenities for a maximum of 15 guests. Features include spacious bedrooms, cozy beds, an open fire/wood burner, Smart TV, doorstep parking, a private walled courtyard garden with a BBQ, and provided linen/towels. The property is available for special events, weddings, and anniversary celebrations upon request. Pets are considered, and the accommodation is open all year.
Contact: Park Street, Masham Phone: 01765 688321 Website: www.mortonhouseuk.com
Garden Cottage Experience luxury in the newly built Garden Cottage, featuring a modern open-plan lounge and kitchen, a bedroom with a double bed, and sofa beds in the living area that can accommodate up to 2 children. The bathroom boasts a copper bath and a separate shower cubicle. The cottage includes a courtyard, and up to 2 dogs are welcome.
Contact: Rear of 1 Park Street, Masham, Ripon HG4 4HN Phone: 01765 689082 Mobile: 07703 441730
The King’s Head Hotel Situated in the historic North Yorkshire market town of Masham, The King’s Head is a Georgian pub restaurant overlooking the market square. With twenty-seven recently redecorated bedrooms, including twelve dog-friendly rooms, it offers a warm welcome to guests. Enjoy locally brewed cask ale and traditional pub meals in this traditional country pub on the edge of the Dales National Park.
Contact: The Kings Head Market Place, Masham, Ripon HG4 4EF Phone: 01765 689295 Website: www.greenekinginns.co.uk Email: 6208@greeneking.co.uk
The Bay Horse Welcoming guests for over two centuries, The Bay Horse in Lower Wensleydale, Masham, offers locally sourced food, fine cask ales, and four well-appointed en-suite letting rooms. The pub is located just yards from the famous Masham Market Place, with a pleasant garden and dog-friendly atmosphere.
Contact: 5 Silver Street, Masham, HG4 4DX Phone: 01765 688158 Website: www.bayhorseatmasham.co.uk Email: bayhorseinnmasham@gmail.com
The Bruce Arms Experience great food, drinks, and accommodation at The Bruce Arms. The pub features an amazing beer garden, welcomes dogs, and has a children’s play area.
Contact: 3 Little Market Place, Masham HG4 4DY Phone: 01765 689372 Website: www.brucearmsmasham.com
Old Station Touring Caravan Park Discover the secluded Old Station Touring Caravan Park, a well-equipped country park with Glamping options and new Holiday Cottages for 2023. Located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, within walking distance of Masham, the park includes facilities for disabled guests, a cafe, and a shop. Pets are welcome, and the park is open from March to November.
Contact: Station Yard, Low Burton, Masham Ripon, HG4 4DF Phone: 01765 689569 Website: www.oldstation-masham.co.uk Email: info@oldstation-masham.co.uk
Car Charging In Masham For Electric Vehicle owners, Market Place in Masham is equipped with electric vehicle charging points. Installed by North Yorkshire Council in 2023, these points on the Connected Kerb network are rated at 22Kw, offering faster charging than home chargers or standard sockets. To use, download the Connected Kerb app and follow the provided instructions.
White Bear Hotel, The 5***** Indulge in the luxury of White Bear Hotel, a high-quality 14-bedroom 5***** hotel in Wellgarth, Masham. Offering double, twin & family rooms, all ensuite, the hotel welcomes children and well-behaved pets. Amenities include TV/radio, tea/coffee, parking, and wheelchair-friendly facilities. The hotel is strictly non-smoking.
Contact: Wellgarth, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4EN Phone: 01765 689319 Website: www.whitebearmasham.co.uk Email: sue@whitebearmasham.co.uk
Masham Hideaway, VB 3*** Experience a delightful stay at Masham Hideaway, a cozy 1-bedroom holiday apartment with all the comforts of home. The apartment, located at 2A Bridge Apartments in Wellgarth, Masham, is TV/radio equipped, with bed linen and tea towels provided. Children are welcome, but the apartment is not suitable for smokers or dogs. Parking is available, and bookings for any length of stay, including weekend breaks and mid-week stays, are accepted. Visit England 3***
Contact: 2A Bridge Apartments, Wellgarth, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4EN Phone: 01526 343868 Website: www.escapetomasham.net Email: jwal470@aol.com
Stable Block, The VB 4**** The Masham Stable Block, a carefully converted 19th-century building, offers luxury holiday accommodation with 3 bedrooms. One bedroom is located downstairs with an en-suite, and two bedrooms are upstairs with an additional shower room, accommodating 5/6 persons. The open-plan living area includes a fully equipped kitchen, and amenities such as Sat & Wi-Fi, TV, DVD, and Xbox are provided. Children are welcome, and pets are considered. The accommodation offers off-street parking, is non-smoking, and is conveniently located near the Market Square, shops, restaurants, and pubs. Open all year with a Visit England 4**** rating.
Contact: 24 Park Street (rear), Masham Ripon, HG4 4HN Phone: 01765 688321 Website: www.mortonhouseuk.com Email: michelle@mortonhouseuk.com
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Places to Eat and Drink
The Bay Horse Situated in the charming Lower Wensleydale market town of Masham, on the outskirts of the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales National Park, The Bay Horse stands as a hospitable inn with a rich history spanning over two centuries.
Nestled just steps away from the renowned Masham Market Place, we proudly offer delectable locally sourced cuisine, exceptional cask ales, and four finely appointed en-suite rooms. Our establishment boasts a delightful garden, and we extend a warm welcome to our canine friends.
Address: 5 Silver Street, Masham, HG4 4DX Phone: 01765 688158Email: bayhorseinnmasham@gmail.com
The White Bear A celebrated pub renowned for its award-winning cask ales and culinary delights, The White Bear stands as a culinary gem in Masham. Offering quality home-cooked meals during lunch and evenings, we also host an annual Beer Festival in the summer. Sundays feature a special focus on delectable lunch from 12-3pm and evening service from 5-8pm. We gladly cater to parties and functions, and our bar area is dog-friendly.
Address: Wellgarth, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4EN Phone: 01765 689319 Email: sue@whitebearmasham.co.uk
T & R Theakston – The Black Bull In Paradise Visitor Centre For a unique party experience in a brewery setting, consider Theakston Black Bull in Paradise Visitor Centre. Available for private hire throughout the year, this venue, located next to the Brewery, offers an exclusive setting with legendary beers. Private tours of the Brewery are available, providing insights into the brewing process. The on-site shop offers a range of iconic Old Peculier beers, branded merchandise, souvenirs, and other Yorkshire delights.
Address: Masham, Ripon, HG4 4YD Phone: 01765 684333 Email: info@theakstons.co.uk
Where There’s Smoke An intimate independent restaurant, Where There’s Smoke, offers a dynamic weekly menu based on the finest local produce. Expertly cooked over coals and embers, the culinary experience is unparalleled.
Phone: 01765 689000 Address: 7 Silver Street, Masham, HG4 4DX Email: info@wts.restaurant
The Bruce Arms Experience the trifecta of eating, drinking, and sleeping at The Bruce Arms. With an amazing beer garden and a welcoming atmosphere, we invite dogs to our establishment. A dedicated children’s play area ensures a family-friendly experience.
Address: 3 Little Market Place, Masham, HG4 4DY Phone: 01765 689372
The Milbank Arms A small, friendly, privately owned village pub, The Milbank Arms offers quality lunch and evening meals. Open Wednesday lunch to Sunday lunch, with disabled access to the restaurant, and the capacity to accommodate parties of up to 35 people. Locally sourced products feature prominently in our menu.
Address: The Milbank Arms, Well, Bedale, North Yorkshire, DL8 2PX Phone: 01677 470411
Black Swan, The A traditional country inn just 2 miles from Masham, The Black Swan offers a full menu prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The Chef’s specials board showcases ever-changing delights, and Sunday lunches highlight locally reared meats. The bar features local real ales and gins, with options to dine in the bar, dining room, or a private dining room for celebrations and meetings.
Address: Fearby, near Masham, Ripon, HG4 4NF Phone: 01765 689477
The King’s Head Hotel Situated in the historic North Yorkshire market town of Masham, The King’s Head is a fine Georgian pub restaurant overlooking the market square. With twenty-seven recently redecorated bedrooms, including twelve dog-friendly rooms, it offers a warm welcome. Enjoy locally brewed cask ale and traditional pub meals in a charming setting.
Address: The Kings Head, Market Place, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4EF Phone: 01765 689295
Black Sheep Bistro & Baa…R The Black Sheep Baa…r offers an incredible beer selection and exciting takes on hearty pub grub. Operating daily from 10 am, with lunch served from 12 pm, and evening service Tuesday-Saturday, it promises a true taste of Yorkshire using locally sourced ingredients.
Address: Wellgarth, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4EN Phone: 01765 680101
Swinton Park A luxury hotel set in 200 acres of lakes and parkland, Swinton Park offers extensive walking in a beautiful late 18th Century listed landscape. Samuel’s, the fine dining restaurant, utilizes produce from the estate’s four-acre walled garden. Non-residents and dogs are welcome, and the adjacent Cookery School hosts hands-on cookery classes throughout the year.
Address: Swinton, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4JN Phone: 01765 6809
Old Station Café Bistro invites you to experience a warm and friendly atmosphere with an extensive menu. Indulge in a variety of breakfast options, explore our full lunch menu, and discover daily specials. We cater to diverse dietary preferences with vegetarian and gluten-free choices. Don’t miss our Sunday Lunch—advance booking recommended.
Opening hours vary with the seasons—9:00 AM to 4:30 PM from May to September and 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM from October to April (closed on Mondays, except for bank holidays). Private party bookings are also available. Find us at Old Station Yard, Station Road, Masham, HG4 4DF, or contact us at 07531 723950.
Brymor Real Dairy Ice Cream, located at High Jervaulx near Masham, proudly offers authentic Yorkshire ice cream made with local milk and cream. Delight in our award-winning creations, with vegan and dairy-free alternatives. Visit our ice cream parlour for family fun, featuring indoor and outdoor play areas, a gift shop, seasonal events, and even a dedicated doggy exercise field. Open seven days a week, with winter hours from 10 AM to 4 PM and summer hours from 10 AM to 6 PM (check our website for any changes). Reach out to us at High Jervaulx Farm, Near Masham, Ripon, HG4 4PG, or call 01677 460377.
Discover the picturesque setting of Swinton Bivouac in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. Explore cycling paths, walk around Druids Temple, and savor Yorkshire favorites at our Café. Stay in our charming Tree Lodges with a private hot tub, Meadow Yurts with communal amenities, or The Loft in a converted farmhouse. We welcome dogs! Find us at Swinton Bivouac, High Knowle, Ilton, Masham, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 4JZ, or call 01765 535020.
Johnny Baghdad’s Cafe On The Square is your go-to spot for Italian coffee, organic teas, breakfast, lunch, and light bites. Choose from gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. We also offer outside catering and host private parties. Visit us at 52 Market Place, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4ED, or contact us at 01765 688809 / 07714914086.
Bordar House Teas, located on the market square, is your destination for delicious, home-cooked food. Indulge in a Full Yorkshire Breakfast, Hearty Soups, Masham Burgers, Hot Filled Rolls, Jacket Potatoes, Steak Pies, Sandwiches & Toasties, and a delightful selection of homemade cakes, scones & slices. Open every day, with a full menu available for take-away. Visit us at 13 Market Place, Masham, Ripon, or call 01765 689118.
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