The Yorkshire Dales, in northern England, combines river valleys, hills and historic settlements. Still largely rural, with farming being a way of life for generations, many are drawn to visit its beautiful landscape. Yet, its archaeology reveals more turbulent times and a history that encompasses battles, castles and even Roman marching camps. More recently, village shows are a real focal point of the calendar, including the quirky cuckoo festival in Austwick and the celebration of the 1940s just up the road in Ingleton. Then the hustle and bustle of livestock auctions bring noise and life to all across the Park. Dalesbred and other sheep varieties are revered across the world and notable businesses and industries include wool production, knitting, cheesemaking and black-marble production. Pubs characterise the Dales, some in remote high locations. Quoits is played locally and traditional music flourishes. Celebrating the Yorkshire Dales chronicles the proud heritage of the Dales, their important moments and what draws so many to this beautiful area today. Illustrated throughout, this fascinating book offers a marvellous and refreshingly positive insight into the Yorkshire Dales’ rich heritage, their special places, people and events, past and present.

Celebrating the Yorkshire Dales is a valuable contribution to the history of this area and provides a source of many memories to those who have known it well over the years.

Mike Appleton has been a journalist, editor, author and media professional since 1998. He has received critical acclaim for his publications. Born in St Helens, but now living in Lancashire, he made regular trips to the Yorkshire Dales with his father and those early days bore an obsession with area and its people, resulting in his book Yorkshire's Three Peaks. He’s an active caver and walker, spending as much time as he can in the Yorkshire Dales, writing and photographing its unique landscape.