Discover Masham

There is so much to see and do in Masham, visit today and explore our Experiences, Local Gems, Entertainment & Things to Do For Families

Marmion Tower

Marmion Tower

Fine 15th-century gatehouse, three storeys high and with a beautiful oriel window.

The three-storey gatehouse is itself a mini-castle, with a guardroom on the ground floor and grander chambers on the first and second floors. Yet some elegant features suggest that it was as much about display as defence.

The square tower is three storeys high, with a vaulted gate passage set off-centre. The contrasting colours of the magnesian limestone blocks have been carefully laid in neat ashlar (squared stone) courses. The different appearance of the masonry at second-floor level shows where the tower was heightened by a storey – note the slightly smaller ashlar stone courses of the upper floor.

The most striking feature on the east face is the fine oriel window at first-floor level, looking out towards the village and the church of St Nicholas. This may date from the original 15th-century construction, or could be a slightly later improvement. Together with the building’s elegant stonework, it reveals that the gatehouse was as much about display as it was about defence.

The windows at the now much ruined second-floor level include an interesting mix of ‘medieval’ and ‘Tudor’ styles: the former have an arched head and the latter have a mullion and transom. Presumably the additional floor was added in the late 16th century and the designer decided to use both traditional and up-to-date features.

JMW Turner sketched Marmion Tower as part of his 1816 tour of Yorkshire.

The artist also captured other sites in the area, including Rievaulx Abbey, Whitby Abbey, Richmond Castle and Scarborough Castle. Why not follow in Turner's footsteps? Both Richmond and Rievaulx are around 40 minutes away from the tower.

A little closer to Marmion is Middleham Castle, just 20 minutes away. Explore the extensive ruins that were once home to Richard III, and enjoy a picnic in the grounds.

Black Sheep Brewery & Visitor Centre

Local brews, guided tours, home-cooked Yorkshire dishes and unique merchandise in this charming brewery.

Druids Temple at Swinton Bivouac

Unique woodland folly - intriguing standing stones, scenic trails, bird hides, and stunning moorland views.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

Stunning monastic ruins and a breathtaking Georgian water garden, spectacular views and serene landscapes.

Stunning 200-acre landscape with grottos, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.

Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park

Award-winning garden - contemporary sculptures, stunning rhododendrons, and a dog-friendly tearoom.

Jervaulx Abbey and Tea Room

Enchanting ruins of a historic Cistercian abbey, set in a serene landscape. Charming tea room nearby.

Marfield Wetlands Nature Reserve

Stunning lakes, and diverse wildlife in a tranquil nature reserve, perfect for scenic walks and birdwatching.

Nosterfield Nature Reserve

This 150-acre nature reserve features diverse wetland habitats, unique limestone geology, and accessible hides for birdwatching.

T&R Theakston Brewery

One of the UK's oldest breweries - guided tours, exclusive events, and legendary beers in an historic setting.

Thornborough Henges

A remarkable prehistoric site with three massive Neolithic earthworks, rich in history and perfect for ceremonies.

ArtisOn Creative Workshops

Diverse art and craft workshops led by skilled tutors in a serene countryside setting. Create unique pieces and enjoy a delicious lunch!

Tractor racing, pig herding and more on a picturesque farm, complete with self-catering accommodation and BBQ delights.

Happy House, Masham

Unique creative experiences, therapeutic sessions, and online courses, promoting well-being and happiness through art.

Spirit of Masham Distillery

A unique gin making adventure, distilling your own bottle in a charming distillery setting.

Swinton Cookery School

Hands-on cooking classes year-round, from baking to international cuisines, perfect for all skill levels.

Swinton Estate Activities

20,000-acre estate offering diverse activities like hiking, cookery, fly-fishing, shooting, cycling, wild swimming, and meditation classes.

Big Sheep Little Cow Farm

Family-friendly farm offering unique hands-on animal experiences and a variety of indoor and outdoor play activities.

Brymor Ice Cream

Award-winning Yorkshire dairy ice cream, family-friendly farm, play areas, a café, and seasonal activities.

Lightwater Valley Adventure Park

Family-friendly park - over 40 rides for kids under 12, diverse dining options and seasonal events.

Annual Masham Sheep Fair

Diverse sheep breeds, family-friendly entertainment, and a charming market square.

The Annual Mashamshire Show

Vibrant showcase of horticulture, crafts, and baking, with activities for all ages and delicious refreshments.

Annual Masham Steam Rally

Stunning steam engines, lively fair organs, and family-friendly activities in a picturesque countryside setting.

The Annual White Bear Midsummer Beer Festival

A vibrant celebration of traditional ales, live music, and delicious BBQ, perfectly timed with the summer solstice.

Grewelthorpe Village Hall and Community Centre

A spacious venue with excellent presentation facilities plus a cosy café serving barista coffee and homemade treats.

Masham Town Hall

This historic venue features a grand hall for live performances, community events, and private functions.

Charming pub offering locally sourced food, fine cask ales, and cosy ensuite rooms.

Family-run pub with a cosy atmosphere, home-cooked meals, local ales, and a stunning beer garden.

The White Bear Hotel

This charming 5-star hotel features 14 ensuite rooms, family-friendly amenities, and welcomes pets, making it an ideal stay for all travelers.

Historic Georgian dog-friendly pub features charming rooms and a warm atmosphere, perfect for enjoying local ales and traditional meals.

Charming village pub with local ales, home-cooked meals, a large beer garden, and family-friendly amenities.

Swinton Birds of Prey Experiences

Handling and flying majestic birds of prey in a stunning park setting.

Swinton Estate Parkland and Gardens

200 acres of stunning heritage parkland; deer park, lakes, vibrant seasonal gardens.

The Millbank Arms

An independent pub in nearby village of Well - out past the Thorp Perrow Arboretum & Gardens

Visitor Information Point & Community Office

Welcome to the Mashamshire Visitor Information Point

Limetree Observatory & Planetarium

State of the art telescope, theatre and planetarium for groups of up to 25.

Fine 15th-century gatehouse, three storeys high and with a beautiful oriel window.

Stunning 40-mile views from a cosy village pub, featuring local ales, quality food, and comfortable ensuite accommodations.

Renowned pub offering award-winning ales, delicious home-cooked meals, and a popular summer beer festival.

Thorp Perrow Arboretum

Diverse wildlife, tree trails, lakes, and picnic spots. Enjoy daily bird displays and family-friendly adventure areas.

The Bedale Leech House

Thought to be the last remaining leech house in Britain and can be found just outside Masham near the river in Bedale

Snape Castle & St Mary's Chapel

Beautiful 15th century castle a few minutes drive from Masham.

Wensleydale Railway

A charming heritage railway journey through stunning countryside.

Wild Swimming on the Swinton Estate

Invigorating wild swimming in a serene, lily-fringed lake with a dedicated platform, promoting well-being year-round amidst nature's beauty.

Masham Cider Press

Enjoy orchard tours, craft cider from local apples and attend unique events at this charming cidery known for its annual blends.

The Leeds Pals Memorial

A memorial to the Leeds Pals who trained here in 1914 before departing for their first and for many their final battle at the Somme.

Albion Craft Silversmith + Lapiderist

Discover unique handcrafted silver and gemstone pieces, along with fascinating fossils, perfect for collectors and tourists alike.

Bentleys of Masham

Independent retailer offering outdoor clothing and equipment, specializing in hiking and country wear.

The Curious Merchant

Unique homewares, antiques and haberdashery from small makers and European collections.

Day Lewis Pharmacy

Usual Pharmacy services including over the counter and chemist prescriber

Corks and Cases World Wide Wines

A unique selection of quality wines, our own gin and delightful tea blends and gift hampers.

W E Jameson and Son Ltd – Jameson’s Country Store

Explore a charming country store offering unique pet supplies and local produce, set in a picturesque area perfect for dog walking and scenic river walks.

Selection of fashionable, casual ladies and children's wear

Masham Country Market

Vibrant market with seasonal stalls, offering a unique shopping experience on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Nearly New Cashmere Co

Discover pristine secondhand cashmere knitwear, unique handmade accessories, and vintage silk scarves, perfect for fashion enthusiasts and souvenir seekers.

The Yorkshire Pet Company

From personalised pet products, hand made in Yorkshire, to doggie and other pet treats to take home and try - drop in with your furry friend and let them choose

Through the Looking Glass

Yarn and craft suppliers offering a friendly atmosphere in Masham.

Wensleydale Garage & Shop

An independent garage providing grocery essentials, goodies, MOTs, servicing & repairs, fuel, logs & coal

Church Street Barbers

Purveyors of fine haircuts for gentlemen

Jennifer Holmes Hair & Beauty Collective

Ladies hairdressers & beauty salon

Ladies Fine Hairdressers - Appointments Needed

The Cutting Room

Ladies & Gentlemens traditional hairdressers appointments not always necessary

This tranquil retreat offers a variety of holistic treatments, including massage therapies and energy healing, all customized for individual wellness needs.

Giles Edwards Yorkshire Property Limited

Explore charming local properties and enjoy the scenic beauty, rich history, and vibrant community, perfect for a delightful getaway.

A vibrant showcase of local artistry and unique crafts, perfect for unique souvenirs and gifts.

A vibrant hub showcasing over 120 talented artists and makers.

Nolan Stacey Gallery

Unique handmade glass art, from decorative pieces to lighting.

A Sweet Emporium for retro sweets fanatics

Beavers Butchers

Family-run specialty butcher offering high-quality local meats.

Joneva of Masham

A delightful spot for sweets, luxury chocolates, ice cream, local cheese and preserves, gifts and toys.

Fresh home baked bread & sandwich shop

The Masham Co-op

A small range of groceries with long opening hours.

No 12 Greengrocer

A charming spot for fresh produce, flowers, custom bouquets and more.

W S Rogers and Son

Family butchers, all local produce.