Wensleydale

Wensleydale is a dale, or valley, of the east side of the Pennines in North Yorkshire, England. The River Ure flows down Wensleydale, hence its more ancient name of Yoredale.

Wensleydale lies in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Its principal settlements include Hawes and Leyburn.

Wensleydale cheese originates from Wensleydale, and is now manufactured in Hawes in a factory started by Kit Calvert MBE. The area has been made world famous since the local cheese was featured in the animated adventures of Wallace and Gromit.

The Bolton Castle is a notable local historic site. Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned here. After escaping she made her way towards Leyburn only to lose her 'shawl' on the way thus giving the name 'The Shawl' to the Cliff edge that runs westward out of Leyburn.

One of Yorkshire's most famous clans, the Metcalfes, are descended from the land of Wensleydale. The Metcalfe Society hold records dating back to Metcalfes living in the area during the 14th century. They were one of the most prominent families in Yorkshire for over five centuries. Sir James Metcalfe (1389-1472) who was born and lived in Wensleydale, was a captain in the army which fought with King Henry V in the battle of Agincourt in 1415. Metcalfe is still one of the most common surnames in Yorkshire.

It is a common destination for tourists because of the fantastic opportunities for walking.

A nearby lake called Semer Water is famous for water sports, including boating, water skiing and fishing.The shortest river in England, the River Bain, links Semer Water to the River Ure, where it joins at Bainbridge.Bainbridge is home to an Ancient Roman fort, and part of the Roman road is walkable, up Wether Fell.

Hardraw Force, the highest unbroken waterfall in England, is located at Hardraw, near Hawes. Kevin Costner had a bath here in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves.

Aysgarth Falls are also in Wensleydale. This series of waterfalls are some of the most spectacular in the world.

It is served by the Wensleydale Railway.