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United Kingdom
England
Yorkshire And The Humber
North Yorkshire
Ryedale

Settrington

Attractions and Places To See around Settrington - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Settrington include a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural points of interest. This picturesque village in North Yorkshire, England, is situated near the Yorkshire Wolds, offering rural landscapes and scenic views. Settrington Beck flows through the village, adding to its natural charm. The area provides opportunities to explore historical landmarks and natural features.

Best attractions and places to see around Settrington

  • The most popular attractions is Wharram Percy β€” Deserted Medieval Village, a settlement that was continuously occupied for six centuries before its abandonment around 1500. It is one of Britain's most famous and well-preserved deserted medieval villages.
  • Another must-see spot is Temple of the Four Winds, a historical site designed by Vanbrugh. Visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding hills from this structure, which was originally used as a place for refreshments and reading.
  • Visitors also love New River Bridge, Castle Howard Estate, a bridge that is part of the Castle Howard Estate. This structure features a grassy track running over it, with the Mausoleum and Temple of Four Winds nearby.
  • Settrington is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and architectural landmarks. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to stately homes and scenic bridges.
  • The attractions around Settrington are appreciated by the komoot community, with 93 upvotes and 102 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 6, 2026

Wharram Percy β€” Deserted Medieval Village

Highlight β€’ Settlement

Wharram Percy is the most famous, and one of the best preserved, deserted medieval villages in Britain. Positioned in a remote and picturesque valley in the Yorkshire Wolds, the village was continuously occupied for six centuries before it was abandoned soon after 1500. Historians are not sure why the residents left the village. Today, you can see the outlines of many lost houses above the crumbling remains of St Martin’s Church.

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New River Bridge is part of the Castle Howard Estate. It's quite striking how the grassy track runs over it. The Mausoleum is right next to it, as is The Temple of Four Winds (yes, it can be very windy here!).

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Kirkham Priory Ruins

Highlight β€’ Historical Site

The incredible ruins of Kirkham Priory are located in the village of Kirkham right next to River Derwent. This was an Augustinian priory, founded in 1120 by the Lord of Helmsley (who also founded Rievaulx Abbey).

The site is maintained by English Heritage and you will need to pay to get in, it's definitely worth the entry fee though. An unmissable experience, particularly if you are into history like I am.

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Temple of the Four Winds

Highlight β€’ Historical Site

You can visit the Temple as part of a tour of Castle Howard, but there are also walks in the grounds nearby. There’s a lovely circular walk from Welburn, a lovely village a few kilometres away, which goes passed here and some of the other foleys.

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Castle Howard Obelisk

Highlight β€’ Monument

The Obelisk, raised in 1714-15, carries two sets of inscriptions. The first, in Latin, commemorates the victories of the 1st Duke of Marlborough. The second, on the west side is in English, was composed in 1731 when much of the building and landscaping had been completed. It was written with posterity in mind and is the clearest statement possible of the 3rd Earl's aspirations for his family.

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RichD
May 26, 2025, Kirkham Priory Ruins

The remains of this Augustinian priory include a gatehouse adorned with the De Roos family heraldry. You can also learn about the priory's role in World War II, including Winston Churchill's secret visit and its use in training and testing for D-Day.

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Fascinating diversion during a long trek and I agree with Michael Tilley, walking along the Yorkshire Wolds Way, skirting around Deep Dale and then descending in to Wharram Percy is a cracking walk. Plenty of information boards to read to learn about the site. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wharram-percy-deserted-medieval-village/history/ Re. the above comment: the Yorkshire Wolds Way Partnership does think about the walkers. Hence their accessibility action plan and associated information available on several websites.

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Fascinating diversion during a long trek. Plenty of information boards to read to learn about the site. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wharram-percy-deserted-medieval-village/history/

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If you are following the footpaths to the east of the main Castle Howard grounds, you won't be able to get close to this folly (railings prevent access as it is within the Castle Howard grounds), but you will still have great views of it.

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Unmissable and unfortunately not well served by public footpaths or bridleways, however, the main road has sufficiently wide verges to walk safely along. If you are heading north past the Obelisk Ponds, then there is a fantastic track on the east side of the road which is flanked by lime trees forming a wonderful avenue to walk along (see photos).

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Grassy track over the New River, nice views of the estate and various follies from the bridge. Per historicengland.org: "c1740. By Daniel Garrett for Henry, 4th Earl of Carlisle. Sandstone ashlar. Banded rustication to cutwaters dividing 3 stepped segmental arches each with rusticated voussoirs and a mask keystone to central arch. Niches in tooled architraves with pulvinated friezes and consoles supporting pediments flank the main arch. Brackets support cornice surmounted by low parapet with central balustrade and coping. Ramped approaches have balustrading, rusticated piers to centre, and square-section end piers."

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A nice 4.6 mile stroll with a gentle incline

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The Temple of the Four Winds was designed by Vanbrugh, although he didn't get to finish it before he died (1726). It was first used as a place to get refreshments and to read. There are gorgeous views of the hills from here as well!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I visit near Settrington?

Settrington and its surroundings are rich in history. You can explore Wharram Percy β€” Deserted Medieval Village, one of Britain's most famous and well-preserved deserted medieval villages, offering a glimpse into six centuries of continuous occupation. Another significant site is Kirkham Priory Ruins, an Augustinian priory beautifully set in the Derwent valley. Additionally, the village itself features the historic Settrington House and the Church of All Saints, dating back to the late 12th century.

Are there any family-friendly attractions around Settrington?

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Castle Howard, an ornate 18th-century stately home with landscaped grounds, fountains, and trails, is a great option. The estate also includes the Temple of the Four Winds and the New River Bridge, offering plenty to see and explore. Kirkham Priory Ruins is also listed as family-friendly, providing an engaging historical experience.

What natural features can I explore in the Settrington area?

Settrington is surrounded by natural beauty. The village itself is home to Settrington Beck, a stream that flows through the village and features a mill-pond. The area lies to the north of the Yorkshire Wolds, offering rural landscapes and agricultural surroundings. You can also find South Wold Plantation for shaded walks and enjoy scenic views from areas like Fallow Field and Town Wold.

What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near Settrington?

The area around Settrington offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can find easy trails such as the 'Long Plantation and Broughton Lane loop from Malton' or the 'Sylvan Dale – View from Settrington Beacon loop from Thorpe Bassett'. Cyclists can enjoy routes like the 'Castle Howard & Nunnington loop from Malton' or the 'National Byway (Malton Loop)'. Mountain biking trails are also available, including the 'Coneysthorpe Chapel – Malton War Memorial loop from Malton'. You can find more details on these routes in the easy hikes, cycling, and MTB trails guides.

Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots around Settrington?

Yes, the region offers several scenic viewpoints. The western scarp of the Yorkshire Wolds provides fine views towards the Vale of York. From the Temple of the Four Winds at Castle Howard, you can enjoy gorgeous views of the surrounding hills. Additionally, areas like Fallow Field and Town Wold offer picturesque landscapes, especially when poppies are in bloom.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Settrington?

Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth and natural beauty of the area. Many find Wharram Percy β€” Deserted Medieval Village to be a fascinating diversion with useful information boards. The stunning architecture and expansive grounds of Castle Howard are also highly praised, as are the tranquil settings of places like Kirkham Priory Ruins.

Can I find cafes or pubs near the attractions in Settrington?

Yes, there are options for refreshments. At Castle Howard, you'll find a nice cafe for coffee and cake, and a small take-away coffee shop. Kirkham Priory Ruins also has drinks and snacks available at a small shop within the entrance. The village of Settrington and nearby areas also have traditional pubs, offering a chance to experience local hospitality.

What is the significance of Settrington House and the Church of All Saints?

Settrington House is a historic building dating back to the late 18th century, commissioned by Mark and Henrietta Masterman Sykes. Despite alterations and a fire, it remains a significant landmark, along with its 1793 Riding School. The Church of All Saints, located at the south end of the village, is a Grade II* listed structure from the late 12th or early 13th century, showcasing centuries of architectural history through its various alterations and restorations.

Is there a Roman history connection in Settrington?

Yes, Settrington has a connection to Roman history. Near the present water tower on Settrington High Street, a spectacular Roman beacon or signal station once stood. Although demolished in 1831, it was a crucial communication point, receiving signals from Scarborough Castle and transmitting them towards York, with its light visible over an estimated 400 square miles.

Are there any long-distance walking paths that pass through Settrington?

Yes, The Centenary Way, a notable long-distance path, passes directly through Settrington. This offers excellent opportunities for walkers to explore the surrounding countryside and connect with other scenic routes in the North Yorkshire area.

What is the New River Bridge at Castle Howard Estate?

The New River Bridge is an interesting structure within the expansive Castle Howard Estate. It features a distinctive grassy track running over it and is located near other significant landmarks like the Mausoleum and the Temple of the Four Winds, making it a point of interest during walks on the estate.

What is the best time of year to visit Settrington for outdoor activities?

While specific seasonal advice for Settrington isn't detailed, the Yorkshire Wolds area generally offers pleasant conditions for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically milder, making it ideal for exploring historical sites, walking trails, and enjoying the natural landscapes. Summer also allows for picnics and enjoying the village green.

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