Neighbourhood know-how, places and people.

Great British Life: LeyburnLeyburn (Image: Kevin Gibson Photography Ltd)

Location location

Leyburn is a picturesque market town in the heart of Wensleydale, renowned as a 'town for all seasons' because there's something for visitors to see and do all year. And despite the serious flooding earlier this summer it has remained open for business. With stunning views from the limestone 'shawl' to nearby Aysgarth Falls, this gem of a town is best explored on foot with a plethora of footpaths and bridleways to explore. When you're ready to rest and refuel, there are plenty of delightful cafes, pubs and tea rooms to choose from. If shopping is on the agenda, the town boasts quaint, independent shops. The Old English meaning of Leyburn is 'the stream in the woodland clearing.'

If you've got the time, travelling to Leyburn by train is an absolute must! The town has its very own train service run by The Wensleydale Railway. The 16-mile long route runs between Leeming Bar and the beautiful village of Redmire, stopping at Bedale, Finghall and Leyburn. For train fanatics, in the summer the railway runs fabulous steam engines too! By car on the A1 northbound take the Leeming Bar exit and follow signs to Leyburn, through the pretty villages of Crakehall, Patrick Brompton, Constable Burton and Harmby. Or if you're travelling from the North, leave the A1 at Scotch Corner, head through the equally beautiful market town of Richmond, then on to Leyburn. You can also catch the 73 bus from Northallerton Station to Bedale and then the 155 to Leyburn.

Great British Life: LeyburnLeyburn (Image: Kevin Gibson Photography Ltd)

Bag a property

Property in and around Leyburn is highly sought after with many people looking to invest in holiday homes. The average price of properties in the town is £264,000 but you can pick up a two bedroom terrace house in the centre of the town for £165,000 or a one bedroom apartment in a converted school on the outskirts for £115,000.

If your budget is bigger and new builds are more to your taste, you can purchase a five bedroom detached house on the Limes Development for £675,000.

Great British Life: LeyburnLeyburn (Image: Kevin Gibson Photography Ltd)

Explore

The list of things to do in and around Leyburn is endless. Visit the town's quirky train station and go for a ride on the steam train. Discover many of the fabulous walking routes that begin and end in the town. Explore Tennants Auctioneers and Garden Rooms where there's always a bargain to be bought.

A little further out of town, Forbidden Corner should be top of your list for something to do with the children. This unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises guarantees a day out with a difference. This is the heart of Wensleydale - fabulous walking country and picture-perfect views.

Great British Life: LeyburnLeyburn (Image: Kevin Gibson Photography Ltd)

Cafes and cocktails

We could write a supplement on all the fabulous places to eat and drink in Leyburn but here's a snapshot. The Sandpiper Inn is a firm favourite with locals and visitors, offering (in their words) a unique dining experience in a traditional atmosphere.

The Post Horn Tea Room and Café is the perfect place to take a break from your walk, offering delicious lunches and afternoon teas. Chambers Coffee House and Penleys Café and Bistro are also worth a visit. You're spoilt for special dining if you're prepared to head a little way out of the town with the Saddle Room (at Forbidden Corner), the Wendsleydale Heifer and the Blue Lion (at West and East Witton, consecutively).

Great British Life: LeyburnLeyburn (Image: Kevin Gibson Photography Ltd)

Retail therapy

Chocoholics should hot foot it to Inspired Chocolate where you can even make your own to take home. For all things beautiful and unusual, head to Serendipity Interiors which offers fabulous items for the home, as well as great gifts.

The Wobbly Dog needs a mention, if only for the name - offering sweets and quirky gifts. Victoria's Lingerie offers beautiful underwear and amazing service that has people travelling many miles to enjoy. The market is in town every Friday, and the Farmers Market every fourth Saturday of the month.