A charming little village nestled in the Yorkshire Dales offers a delightful step back in time, making it an ideal destination for a tranquil weekend escape.
Tucked away in a relatively peaceful corner, this picturesque village is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of Wharfedale in North Yorkshire. Just two miles from Burnsall and five miles north of Bolton Abbey, it’s a must-visit for those yearning for a serene retreat amidst nature’s splendour.
Known as ‘Aptrick’ by the locals, Appletreewick boasts distinctive architecture with its stunning stone houses – many hailing from the 12th, 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. A number of these homes are perched on the hillside above the River Wharfe, overlooking the village’s only through road.
They offer spectacular long-distance views of the dramatic rolling valleys of the Yorkshire Dales, set against the perfect backdrop of the fells.
Though small in size, this picture-perfect village brims with character. It was mentioned in the renowned Domesday Book and served as a significant market town, thriving in the first half of the 14th century, reports Yorkshire Live.
Remarkably, little has changed in this exquisite hamlet, with a mere 207 residents according to the 2021 census.
Walking back through time
A leisurely stroll down the main street of Appletreewick feels like stepping into a bygone era, with historic stone cottages lining the thoroughfare. A traditional red British telephone box, now a rare sight, adds to the village’s nostalgic charm.
Historically, Appletreewick was a melting pot of professions. Early records reveal a diverse mix of inhabitants, including farmers, cobblers, tailors, schoolteachers, weavers, blacksmiths, miners, innkeepers, carters, and corn millers.
The idyllic village becomes a hive of activity during the summer months, attracting hikers, rambling enthusiasts, and cyclists keen to soak up the captivating scenery and panoramic views.
Appletreewick was once renowned for its annual Onion Fair, a nod to the vegetable’s significance in the local trade. In homage to this tradition, a lane in the village was aptly named Onion Lane, a name it retains to this day.
One particular Onion Fair is remembered for an fight between two rival families – the Nortons of Rylstone Manor and the Cliffords of Skipton Castle.
While the feud itself made headlines at the time, its modern-day significance lies in highlighting the importance of the Onion Fair, given that members of these prominent families were present.
Appletreewick also boasts High Hall, a Grade II Listed Tudor-style edifice, restored by Sir William Craven. Craven, who ascended to the roles of Sheriff and Lord Mayor of London in the early 17th century, had a personal connection to the building, having been born in a cottage nearly opposite High Hall.
This cottage was one of two that were eventually transformed into the St John Baptist Church.
Visitors can enjoy a hearty meal and a pint at The New Inn, and partake in activities such as fly fishing on the River Wharfe, renowned for its plentiful grayling and brown trout.
In a 2009 study examining rural driving within England, Appletreewick was bestowed with the title of ‘Britain’s Friendliest Town to Drive Through’. This accolade speaks volumes about the charm of this quaint village and the warmth of its inhabitants.
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