Lealholm

Lealholm gathers around a village green on the banks of the Esk, crossed by an old stone bridge and a set of stepping stones that are irresistible on a summer afternoon. The river is wide and shallow here, and the green is a popular spot for picnics and paddling.

The village has a pub, the Board Inn, tea rooms, a shop and post office, and a village hall. The nursery gardens at Poet's Cottage, with the river running through, are open seasonally. St James's Church stands above the village.

Lealholm is a good base for walking. The Esk Valley Walk passes through, and there are field paths east to Glaisdale and west to Danby, both with stations so you can walk one way and ride back. Lealholm station is a short walk from the green.

In winter, Lealholm's position in the bottom of the valley means it can be one of the coldest spots in the county, and the frozen river is a local talking point.