Northallerton

Northallerton is the County Town of North Yorkshire, lying in the Vale of Mowbray and at the northern end of the Vale of York.  Since Roman times Northallerton has been a settlement, but its stature grew in the 11th century when King William II gave land to the then Bishop of Durham.  Subsequently, the Town became an important centre for religious affairs and was also the site of much conflict between the English and the Scots, most notably the Battle of the Standard in 1138.

Northallerton became more dependent on trade and transport; and being on the main line from London to Edinburgh it became an important coaching stopover until the the growth of the railways.  Today, Northallerton is still a station on the East Coast Mainline making it easily accessible from both London and Scotland.  

Northallerton’s Market Town status has been protected by Royal Charter since 1200 and there is still a market today on both Wednesdays and Saturdays.  Northallerton is a key local shopping centre and has some excellent independent shops such as Barker’s Department Stores and on the food side, Lewis & Cooper, Kitson’s Butchers and Bettys Cafe Tearooms.  

The Town is the administrative centre for the Hambleton District and County Hall houses the main offices of North Yorkshire County Council. Hambleton Leisure Centre also offers visitors facilities such as a Swimming Pool, Sports Hall, Gym, etc.