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Gunnerside Gill

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Moorland, Valley, Riverside

Walking, Cycling, Photography, Wildlife Watching, Fishing, Birdwatching

Spring to Autumn

Andy Waddington / CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Gunnerside Gill is a side valley that runs north off Swaledale into the moors above the village of Gunnerside, holding one of the best-preserved lead-mining landscapes in the Yorkshire Dales. Following the beck upstream, a walker passes from woodland and pasture into an industrial scene of spoil hea...

6

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

2 day, 4 overnight

The King's Head, Gunnerside, The Farmers Arms, Muker​, The Tan Hill Inn, Keld​

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Gunnerside Gill?
North Yorkshire hosts this spectacular valley within the Swaledale area. Walkers usually head north from the nearby village to trace the path of the river.

What type of place is Gunnerside Gill?
Gunnerside Gill is a valley featuring historic lead mining remains in the Yorkshire Dales.

When is the best time to visit Gunnerside Gill?
Spring through to autumn offers the most reliable weather for tackling the rough tracks and open moorland. Crisp morning light during these seasons gives you the finest visibility for photographing the old stone structures.

What can you do at Gunnerside Gill?
Hikers follow the old miners' tracks to explore the dramatic crags and crumbling lead smelting buildings. People also enjoy watching the local wildlife and spotting upland birds along the valley slopes.

How long should I spend at Gunnerside Gill?
Allocating around four hours allows ample time to complete the full walk and investigate the industrial ruins safely. Anyone wanting to combine the trek with a longer route across the higher fells will need a full day.

Where do I park at Gunnerside Gill?
Spaces for six vehicles exist close to the starting point, split between two day and four overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Gunnerside Gill?
The King's Head in Gunnerside, The Farmers Arms in Muker, and The Tan Hill Inn in Keld provide three choices for a meal nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Gunnerside Gill?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Gunnerside Gill, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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