Cottage History

Situated in the conservation area of Settle, the cottage has retained it’s charm. Something we have persevered to also do whilst renovating, restoring the wording above the front door. It is a privilege to be guardians of a property so rich in history, through all its reincarnations; butchers, tea and coffee dealer (likely in the 1780’s) and more recently a sweet shop. 

The upper floor was added in the 1800’s (you can see the line if you stand back) a time when all the cottages were interlinked, to allow the ladies to move easily when spinning, weaving and sewing.

See if you can spot the old entrance ways in the dining area and one of the bedrooms.

At the rear of the cottage, the cobbled street was once the main thoroughfare from Settle to Malham. You can see the old drainage channels on the far side of the road. The cottage opposite was once the stables for the inn on Kirkgate. 

At the top of this cobbled street, there is access to Duke Street – which must be able to take a horse carriage through as stated on our neighbours deeds!    

Whilst in the opposite direction, you will find Victoria Hall, the world’s oldest surviving music hall. Simply named Settle Music Hall until 1892, and designed by Edward Graham Paley, who also designed Lancaster Cathedral, it was the only music hall he designed.

Just moments away from the cottage is Settle Market Place, affectionately named ‘the Shambles’. Originally started in 1249 with a market charter approved by Henry III, the market is still going strong today.

Visit Castleberg, the 300feet high limestone crag that overlooks the town for a beautiful view of the town and the surrounding country side.

More local history may be found on the North Craven Heritage Trust websites or the books within the cottage. https://www.northcravenheritage.org/