Cononley combines a rural village character and a long mining history with the nearby natural setting of Dead Eye Pond. The two highlights appeal to different interests: the village is known for its historic buildings and industrial heritage, while the Pond offers wetlands and wildlife.
Local History and Architecture
People have lived in and around Cononley since the Bronze and Iron Ages. The village centre has a distinctly rural character. Its mix of historic architectural styles spans the 17th to the late 19th century. The significance of the Cononley Conservation Area lies in its rural architectural and historic interest, as well as its legibility within the surrounding landscape.
Cononley Hall, a former manor house, is one example of the area’s architectural history. Parts of the house date from the late 16th or early 17th century, while others date from the late 18th century. At the rear is a reused door lintel bearing the date 1628.
Cononley Lead Mine can also be dated precisely: it was established between 1842 and 1847 for the agent of the Duke of Devonshire. The entrance to the inclined plane dates from around 1847. The listed group includes the Engine House and Chimney, Portal to Engine Shaft, Magazine Building, Portal to Incline Plane and the forge. The structures listed here are Grade II listed.
For another perspective on local history, the book “The History of Cononley: an Airedale Village” was published in 2000. The Trevor Hodgson Collection can also be studied nearby at Skipton Library. It includes notes, newspaper cuttings and photographs, offering a different way to explore local history from the historic buildings.
Landscape and Dead Eye Pond
Cononley lies within the “Settled Industrial Valleys” landscape category and on the edge of landscape area 38, “Siltstone and Sandstone Low Moors”. This area overlooks the Aire Valley. Dead Eye Pond has a different landscape character: the pond lies in the washlands, halfway between Cononley and Carleton.
The landscape around Dead Eye Pond includes reed beds, woodland, wetlands, traditional hedgerows and a viewing platform. The site is a refuge for wildlife and migratory birds. Please note the dog policy when planning your visit: dogs are not allowed, with the exception of assistance dogs.
Two volunteer workdays are organised at Dead Eye Pond each year, and anyone interested can take part. If you would like to join in, check the dates before your trip. St John the Evangelist also welcomes visitors to attend Sunday services.
Plan Your Journey
Station information from November 2023 lists direct trains from Cononley. Check the current timetable before travelling. The same station information notes that there is no taxi rank or taxi office at the station, so a taxi must be booked in advance. As this information dates from November 2023, check current taxi details before you travel as well.
Discover more destinations: Austwick, Hambleton, Sandsend, Green Hammerton, Robin Hood's Bay, Castleton, Shipton and Malton.
For the main travel overview: North Yorkshire.
