Swaledale

Raby Castle, 4mi/6km northeast of Barnard Castle, is an extremely well-preserved castle, dating from the 14th century. Most of the rooms are now furnished in the style of the 18th and 19th century; however, the church has remained almost completely unaltered for the past 600 years. Old coaches and fire engines are displayed in a nearby building.

At Reeth a hilly moorland road goes off on the right to Arkengarthdale, passing through a number of tiny hamlets.

Egglestone Abbey in Swaledale is the ruins of a 12th C abbey. The abbey was founded in about 1195 and is a good example of a small monastic establishment, exhibiting several styles of architecture and all the principal components of a medieval monastery. At the dissolution in 1536, the east range of the cloister was converted into a mansion.

Following the River Swale westwards from Richmond through ever-changing scenery, Reeth is reached after 11mi/18km. Reeth was a lead-mining center from Roman times until the end of the 19th century; the Old Gang Smelting Mill (4mi/6km northwest of the town) is typical of that era.

Each year in May and June, Reeth hosts the Swaledale Festival, a two-week event highlighting music and guided walks.

This annual festival takes place in late May.