Settle is a well-loved and bustling market town home to lots of lovely cafes, restaurants, pubs and shops. There's also a thriving market held in the town every Tuesday – the perfect place to pick up everything from flowers to dinner for later that night. If real ale is your thing, there are three fantastic real ale pubs set around the marketplace, so you can choose which one to try each evening!
Just outside of town, you can hop on the Settle to Carlisle Railway, one of the most scenic routes in the UK which will take you over the well-known Ribblehead Viaduct (12 miles). Beyond Settle, you have the exquisite delights of the Yorkshire Dales. And, as you would expect, the surrounding countryside here is simply magnificent, perfect if you want to strike out from the cottage in your walking boots or on your bicycle.
The historic town of Skipton (16 miles) is also close by and offers a host of other attractions including its very own castle. There are lots of options to eat here as well as independent shops making it a great option for a full day out. Other nearby attractions include the Kilnsey Trout Farm and horse riding at Coniston, Malham.
It's a true walker's paradise here but if you're more of a roamer than a rambler, try a stroll around the grounds of nearby Bolton Abbey (22 miles). These gorgeous ruins provide the backdrop to a particularly beautiful part of the Dales and are well worth a visit. There are a host of other attractions all within easy reach including Malham Cove and Malham Tarn (both 8 miles).