Whilst creating our new Shop Local/ Discover Masham brochure, we asked some of our local business owners to share their favourite places to visit and things to do around the town. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, these recommendations will help you uncover a little more about some of Masham’s best hidden gems.

Colin Blair of Johnny Baghdad’s Café: Hackfall Woods

Located just 2.5 miles from Masham, Hackfall isn’t your typical woodland. It’s a carefully crafted landscape, designed by John Aislabie, the creator of Studley Royal.

Hackfall is a 200-acre site managed by the Woodland Trust, full of ancient trees, follies and incredible vistas that were framed to create stunning views of both natural beauty and architectural features.

The walk into the gorge can be a little steep, but it’s well worth it for the breathtaking views of the River Ure and surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the follies and hidden viewpoints along the trail, or extend their walk into Grewelthorpe.

Alternatively, start your walk from Masham and follow the footpath along the River Ure, leading directly to the woods.

Rob Elsworth of The Yorkshire Pet Company: Marfield Wetlands

For a peaceful, nature-filled spot, Marfield Wetlands is a hidden gem just a short walk from Masham’s town centre. Rob loves this tranquil reserve for its variety of habitats and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Once a sand and gravel pit, Marfield Wetlands has been transformed into a haven for wildlife, featuring lakes, ponds and wet grasslands. It’s especially popular with birdwatchers in winter when wildfowl arrive.

There are several walking paths, including a short trail through the wetlands or a longer riverside walk around the perimeter. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead to protect the wildlife.

Jane Sutcliffe-Jones of Joneva: The Annual Masham Sheep Fair

The 40th Annual Masham Sheep Fair takes place on 27th-28th September this year, and is a must-see event in Masham’s vibrant calendar.

Held in Masham Market Square, the fair celebrates the town’s rich sheep market history with a weekend full of fun and entertainment. Expect sheep showing, sheep racing and sheepdog demonstrations, plus Morris dancers, a craft market, children’s fair and a flower display at St. Mary’s Church.

The event is free to attend, with donations helping to raise vital funds for local charities, including the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Masham’s quirky charm and community spirit!

Mandy Abbott of No 12 Greengrocer: Swinton Park

Located just a mile from Masham, Swinton Park sits on a stunning 20,000-acre private estate offering a wealth of outdoor activities.

Owned by the Cunliffe-Lister family since the 1880s, this working rural estate blends natural beauty with historical charm. The parkland, designed by Capability Brown, features tranquil lakes, woodland walks and a deer park. Wild swimming, glamping and more are also available.

For something truly unique, book a session at the Swinton Birds of Prey Experience, where you can handle and fly owls, hawks, and falcons alongside expert falconers.

Catherine & Lucy Scott-Paul of Bordar House Teas: Theakston Brewery

Masham is home to one of the UK’s most iconic breweries, Theakston Brewery, famed for its legendary Old Peculier beer. The team from Border House Teas highly recommend a visit to the brewery – particularly to witness Euan the Cooper handcrafting an oak barrel!

Theakston Brewery has been producing beer since 1827, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the brewing process. One of the highlights is the rare opportunity to see cooperage in action, a craft few breweries still preserve today.

After the tour, head to the Black Bull in Paradise visitor centre to sample a pint of Theakston’s finest beers and explore the brewery’s collection of memorabilia. This is a must-do for beer lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Alison James of The Curious Merchant: Masham Market Place

No visit to Masham is complete without spending some time in Masham Market Place. Stroll through the square, which has been the town’s heart for centuries and admire the surrounding Georgian buildings. Close by, you’ll find Masham Church, which houses fascinating relics and monuments, including part of an 8th-century cross at the entrance.

Nearby, the Kings Head (formerly an excise office) and The Lord Nelson Hotel (a coaching inn) both carry their own rich heritage. Bordar House Teas is also one of the few buildings in Masham with a preserved thatched roof, a nod to the town’s historic use of heather.

Graham & Emily Swift of Through the Looking Glass: River Walks

Several local shopkeepers recommend taking a peaceful riverside walk during your visit to Masham. One popular route starts at Masham Market Place and follows the River Ure north for about two miles, leading you to the Fisherman’s Hut.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside, with opportunities to spot wildlife like sand martins swooping over the water.

Although the main route doesn’t pass directly through Marfield Wetlands, it’s easy to take a short detour to explore. The walk is simple to follow, providing a lovely escape into nature, just a short distance from Masham’s town centre.

Want to learn more about Masham’s attractions?

For more hidden gems and insider tips, pick up a copy of the Shop Like a Local in Masham brochure from the Community Office or explore the Discover Masham section on our website. Whether you’re a lover of the great outdoors, enjoy learning about local history or fancy attending one of the town’s unique events, there’s something new to discover around every corner.

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