The Thornton Steward Heritage Trail...

...evolved from a Parish Appraisal, undertaken in 2001 as a joint venture between the Parish and the Institute. The findings showed that people valued the heritage of the area and wanted to organise a History Goup to find out more about the local socio-history, focussing on the heritage assets of the area.

Among the outcomes of this project was a beautifully illustrated booklet setting out the history from as far back as 1041, together with detailed descriptions of the lovely buildings and colourful stories of their inhabitants through the ages.

The trail starts at Field Side, number 1 on the map below and on the main approach to the village from the east. It takes in several offshoots from the main thoroughfare, as well as a visit to St. Oswald's Church, a few hundred yards to the west of the village.

30 points of interest are featured in the booklet, as well as 4 walks, each with magnificent panoramic views over lower Wensleydale. There is also a delightful poem, entitled 'An Ode To My Village'. Copies of the booklet can be found in the Institute. (Click here to see a larger version of the map below.)