Susan Briggs lives in Masham and is director of the Tourism Network and Yorkshire Treasures, while helping to run Masham Sheep Fair. She has curated a perfect day in the charming market town
Morning
The perfect Masham morning starts with a wander along the River Ure, either following the downstream route from the market place along Millgate, which loops back through the King’s Head (look out for the reindeer on the way!) or upstream towards the Fisherman’s Hut and Marfield Nature Reserve. Lunch at Café on the Square or Bordar House Teas means you can watch the happenings in one of the largest, cobbled market places in Yorkshire as you munch.
Afternoon
Masham prides itself on its independent spirit and creative folk. Cross the square to browse in Masham Gallery, full of artistic delights and The Curious Merchant next door. The Nolon Stacey gallery is tucked away near the church. If it’s a sunny day you might want to pick up picnic ingredients from No 12 Greengrocer or The Lunchbox to enjoy on the recreation ground by the river, or while watching a cricket match.
After picking up some sweet treats at Joneva or Bah Humbugs, look out for some of Masham’s historical features. Notice centuries of wear on the stones by the market cross, find the old mounting block and the sign bearing the story of Masham’s Lost Cemetery and the discovery of 58 skeletons. For a little light relief, see if you can discover John’s weather forecasting stone.
Beer lovers will no doubt enjoy a tour around Black Sheep or Theakston’s Brewery. If you go to the Black Bull in Paradise (part of Theakston’s Brewery and with short opening hours), peek through the small window to see the cooper’s workshop. You can even learn to make your own gin at the Spirit of Masham Distillery.
Evening
Book ahead if you’d like to enjoy an excellent meal at Where There’s Smoke, or you might try one of Masham’s pubs, such as the White Bear. At the weekend there’s often a band or other event in the Town Hall.
Don’t miss in 2026
Masham Steam Engine and Fair Organ Rally
This event, which raises funds for the Masham Town Hall Community Charity, is a celebration of heritage with events, activities, demonstrations and displays to excite visitors of all ages. There will be hundreds of rare heritage vehicles ‒ including steam engines, tractors, cars and motorcycles ‒ plus food stalls, craft stalls, children’s entertainment and more.
July 18-19 mashamsteamrally.com
Masham Sheep Fair
The town is famous for its sheep sales where, in the past, as many as 70,000 sheep were sold each year. The fair commemorates these times, raising money for charity. Events include sheep racing, a craft market, fleece stalls, sheepdog demonstrations, exhibitions, tours and more.
September 26-27, mashamsheepfair.com
Sense of place
Whatever you do, don’t call it Mash’em! It’s pronounced Massam, said to be named after a Saxon chieftain called Massa, and his farmstead, a ham.
Town or village?
Masham is small and village-like. People love to stop and chat, and there’s a wonderful sense of community. Locals are always keen to point out that Masham is a town, with a market charter dating back to 1251.
Masham’s community and info hub
Pop into the Masham Community Office to find out what’s on and pick up some leaflets to help you explore more. There’s a new blue plaque trail featuring some of Masham’s famous former residents, the leaves’ walk and a sculpture trail celebrating the much- loved swifts that are seen swirling above the market place in the summer.
St Mary’s Church
St Mary’s Church was included in Simon Jenkins’ England’s Thousand Best Churches. It’s recorded in the Domesday Survey of 1086. The present church mainly dates from the 12th to the 15th century. The remains of the Saxon cross in the churchyard date back to the 8th or 9th century.
Local attractions
Hackfall is a wonderful woodland, filled with ancient trees and fanciful follies. Druids Temple and the Bivouac Café, near Ilton, on the Swinton Estate, are popular destinations for family walks. Masham is just a short journey from both Fountains Abbey and Jervaulx Abbey.
