Explore Commondale through several themes: moorland, a challenging road cycling route and different traces of the village’s history. Moorland surrounds the village, and views of it can be seen throughout. This creates a clear distinction when choosing a destination: the landscape has an immediate presence in Commondale, while the cycling route and historic sites each offer a distinct focus. You can decide whether outdoor activity or exploring history should play a greater part in your stay.
Moorland and the cycling route
Moorland is not limited to a single viewpoint: it surrounds Commondale, and views of it can be seen throughout the village. You can therefore experience the landscape independently of a cycling trip. Those mainly interested in the village’s landscape will find a different focus here than in the route’s sporting challenge. Village views and the cycling route thus offer two different ways to include the character of the moorland in your travel plans.
The “Esk Valley West and Westerdale” road cycling route is 18.7 miles (30 km) long and rated difficult. It crosses the high moor above Commondale. This provides a distinct sporting focus, while views of the moorland shape the village itself. When planning, you can take both the route length and its difficulty into account. As route conditions can change depending on the season, check them before setting out.
Memorials and local history
The Commondale War Memorial commemorates the First World War and was unveiled in 1921. The Commondale Shepherds' Memorial has a different focus: it commemorates Robert Leggott and Alfred Cockerill. The two were childhood friends and worked as shepherds on the Gisborough Estate. The memorials therefore draw attention to different subjects: remembrance of the First World War on the one hand, and the story of two shepherds who were friends on the other.
The founding of the Commondale settlement is also linked to a specific story: a brickworks founded by John Pratt arrived in the mid-19th century; the settlement’s development is linked to its arrival. This industrial perspective adds another view of local history alongside the memorials. It shows that local themes are not limited to memorial sites, but also include the origins of the settlement.
An archaeological detail
A round barrow lies on the eastern slope of Commondale Moor. Its mound of earth and stone is 0.75 metres high. Its shape and construction set it apart from memorials to specific people or a historic event. For travellers interested in history, the barrow adds an archaeological perspective alongside the memorials and industrial development. Commondale is therefore home to several historical themes that sit side by side, without needing to be combined into a single story.
More activities in North Yorkshire
Beyond Boundaries offers inclusive activities, training, sports and courses in the beautiful countryside of North Yorkshire. If you would like to include this offering in your plans, check current availability before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Malham, East Harlsey, Tadcaster, Dalton, Helmsley, Ganton, Danby, Great Edstone.
Return to the main travel overview: North Yorkshire.
