Carlton

The village sits on the lower reaches of Penhill facing south over the dale though high enough to command views throughout Coverdale and directly across the valley towards West Scrafton and the distant crags of Roova that break the southern skyline.

Carlton is the principal village in this hidden dale and referred to locally as Carlton Town which perhaps reflects it status and ambitions over many generations. There are three ancient mounds near the village, two Bronze Age barrows, or burial mounds and one motte, or castle, dating from the 11th Century confirming its ancient beginnings. The Ancient Order of Foresters still exists as a Friendly Society and takes to the streets in full regalia during June of each year to march through the village and enjoy a day of celebration and thanksgiving mixed with fun and games for young and old.

A long straggling village following the undulating escarpment for over a mile with many bridleways and paths leave the village to link into Walden, Wensleydale and to farms and hamlets spread across Coverdale. Less than a generation ago the village boasted two public houses, three general stores, a petrol station, a cobbler, blacksmith and two joiners workshops but now only the Foresters Arms remains. A village changing to modern ways but still full of character and charming Dale’s folk.