The Historic Village of West Tanfield.

When we go up to Masham, we have a choice of two routes: the scenic one, which is via Otley, Farnley,  Dacre, Dacre Banks, Summerbridge, Brimham Rocks, Risplith, Grantley, Kirkby Malzeard, Grewelthorpe and Masham, or the most direct one, which is via Otley, Harrogate, Ripon, then taking the A6108 to North Stainley, West Tanfield and Masham.

This time we took the most direct route, because I remembered that we passed through West Tanfield, six miles north of Ripon, which is a lovely little village on the banks of the River Ure.

The village has a monument called the Marmion Tower, a 15th century gatehouse which belonged to the now vanished manor house formerly home to the Marmion family. At first floor level there is a fine example of an oriel window.

The Marmion Tower

The Marmion Tower - note the Oriel Window above the entrance.

The Oriel Window

The Spiral Staircase in the Marmion Tower - looking upwards

A plan of the Marmion Tower, showing the three floor levels. The tower is now in the care of English Heritage.

Next door to the Marmion Tower is the church of St Nicholas.



St Nicholas West Tanfield - the East End

I mentioned in my comments on routes that West Tanfield lies on the banks the River Ure. The pub on the corner of the bridge which crosses the river (The Bull Inn) boasts one of the most picturesque settings for a pub beer garden.

The River Ure by the Marmion Tower, near the beer garden of the Bull Inn

                               

Beer Garden at the rear of the Bull Inn - note the Marmion Tower & St Nicholas Church Tower (top left)