East of Ellingstring....

The stunning views to the east stretch across the arable Vales' of York and Mobry and to the hills of the Moors National Park; for the purpose of this website I will contain myself far more locally

Taking the narrow lanes from Ellingstring to the east will eventually bring you to Masham, some six miles away; on route you will negotiate fords across rocky beck's {small rivers} and pass many other interesting features, some of which I will cover

Set in the forest above Leighton Reservoir {as previously illustrated} is the Druids Temple, a miniature 'Stonehenge' set in a woodland glade

Amongst the trees are also further collections of strange stone structures As with all other attractions within the area, the Druids Temple forms a natural part of the surroundings and is not fenced

Further on towards Masham is Swinton Castle, set in two hundred acres of walled deer park and lakes

This was once the 'seat' of Lord Masham, the Earl of Swinton, before being sold on; however six years ago it was bought back into the family as a wedding present and then converted into an exclusive hotel and restaurant

The old Earl of Swinton died in April 2006 and the title Lord Masham was passed to a relative who is the current owner of the castle

For those of our friends who may find our home slightly more humble than Swinton, I have included a link to their website on the final page

Masham is classed as a market town but in reality it is but a village

Historically it gained its wealth many hundreds of years ago as a centre for sheep trading. Its enormous market square is surrounded by lovely Georgian houses and cottages, with an old church in the corner

There is also an antique shop, art gallery, glassware that is blown on the premises, craft and other traditional shops, including one that sells handmade chocolates. The unique appealing feature of Masham is its simple atmosphere and way of life; again like going back far in time. Throughout the year there are many special events including the annual Sheep Fair in the market square, the Steam Engine and Organ Rally, Victorian Markets {where residents dress in Victorian dress}, plus much more. There is strong rumour that this little place was the basis of the words in a song "It's in the middle of nowhere but it's the centre of the universe", following a once famous band staying in Masham

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