Sustainable Food in the Dales: Where to Eat Local & Zero-Waste in September

From Settle's market to Masham's breweries, here's how to eat well while treading lightly in the Yorkshire Dales this autumn.

Settle, Skipton and the Southern Dales

Skipton's market runs four days a week (Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat) on High Street. The fish stall sells day-boat catch from Whitby, 70 miles east, and will wrap in paper if you ask. For zero-waste coffee, Bean Loved on Otley Street gives 30p off if you bring a cup. The town's Real Bread campaign bakery, Hesper Farm, uses organic flour from Yorkshire mills and sells day-old loaves cheap. If you're basing yourself here, book a hotel in Skipton within walking distance of the canal—you'll cut car trips and can walk to the market. September is ideal: fewer crowds, apples and damsons in the hedgerows, and the Dales still green.

Grassington, Kettlewell and Upper Wharfedale

Upper Wharfedale is remote; drive times matter. From Skipton to Kettlewell takes 30 minutes; from Grassington to Buckden, 15 minutes. The nearest railway station is Skipton (on the Leeds–Carlisle line), then bus 72 to Grassington (45 mins). For zero-waste picnics, buy bread from the Yorkshire Dales Bakery in Grassington (they slice to order, no plastic) and cheese from the Wensleydale Creamery shop in Hawes—but that's 30 miles north. Better: pick up Dale End cheese at the Grassington market. September weather is mixed; pack a waterproof and a cloth bag. If you're self-catering, the Arkwrights' barn conversions in Kettlewell have full kitchens and compost caddies.

Hawes, Wensleydale and the Northern Dales

Masham, 25 miles east, is worth the drive for its two breweries: Black Sheep and Theakston. Both offer tours (book ahead) and sell beer in returnable bottles. The town's market on Saturday has a zero-waste stall selling oils, vinegar and shampoo. For dinner, the White Bear Hotel sources meat from its own farm and vegetables from a walled garden; mains £15–£20. From Hawes to Masham takes 45 minutes by car; there's no direct bus. If you're relying on public transport, base in Hawes and take the 156 bus to Leyburn (30 mins) then the 159 to Masham (40 mins). September is harvest time; look for damson gin and fresh apples at the farm shops.

Where to Book and What to Skip

What to skip: supermarket' plastic-wrapped 'local' produce, which often travels further than you think. Skip the large chain pubs in Skipton and Harrogate; they rarely source within 50 miles. Also skip the temptation to buy bottled water—Dales tap water is excellent and refills are free at most cafés. If you're driving, the A65 and A684 can be slow in harvest season; allow extra time. For zero-waste supplies, the best refill shops are in Settle, Skipton and Hawes. And if you're visiting in late September, check for the Masham Sheep Fair (usually last weekend)—it's a proper local event, not a tourist trap.

Questions, answered

Do I need a car to eat sustainably in the Dales?

Not necessarily. Skipton and Hawes have buses to nearby villages, and markets are walkable. But some farms and pubs are remote; a car gives more choice. If you're car-free, base in Skipton and use the 72 bus to Grassington.

Which month is best for local food in North Yorkshire?

September is excellent: harvest season brings apples, damsons and game. Markets are still busy but less crowded than August. October is also good but some stalls close. Avoid January when fresh local produce is scarce.

Where can I refill containers in the Dales?

Settle's market and wholefood shops, Skipton's Bean Loved café and market, Grassington's village shop, and Hawes' community fridge and market all offer refills. Bring your own bags and containers; most traders appreciate it.

← North Yorkshire's page