Pictures of Gunnerside

About Gunnerside

This is an attractive village lying at the heart of a landscape made famous in the TV series "All Creatures Great and Small". The beauty of the Dales in well documented in the books by James Herriot, these were the inspiration for the series.

In general Gunnerside was originally an old Norse hamlet, which expanded into a mining village during the 18th century. It was noted that for the rich Blakethwaite vein at the head of Gunnerside Ghyll. The village has a pleasant spread of typical Dales cottages and a few buildings of note.

Of interest is the Methodist Chapel, built in 1866. Inside the chapel there are plaques commemorating the dead of the two World Wars of the last century, whilst outside in the pretty churchyard there are a number of old graves and tombstones.

The Old Smithy is well worth seeing, this is in the hands of Stephen Calvert, the 6th generation of the same family to work in the place. It is fully operational and has much memorabilia on show to do with the local mines. Displayed around the walls are pages from ledgers dating back to the 1840's. Visitors can buy pieces made at the Smithy and Stephen is always pleased to accept commissions for special pieces.

The real joy of Gunnerside is the scenery, scenic views lie in every direction with the eye being constantly drawn to something fresh and new. In a lovely peaceful spot the swirling waters of Gunnerside Beck meet with the River Swale, and just a short distance along the river is crossed by a picturesque, multi-arched, old stone bridge. Beside the bridge pretty cottages with foliage clad walls peer at the rushing water.

This is an idyllic place in which to spend a few days away from the bustle of every day life. Gunnerside has friendly people and a pleasant atmosphere. The air is crisp and fresh, and its many surrounding famous beauty spots make it the perfect destination for walking, fishing or for touring the vast expanse of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.