Bedale Hall stands in parkland
at the North End of town, close to where a medieval castle is
believed to have stood. Palladianised in 1703 by Henry Peirse,
it was then much improved and extended in 1777, possibly by John
Carr of York.
There is a guide to Bedale Hall available at the
Tourist Information Centre which is next to the Hall.
The Tourist Information Centre opens between Easter and the end of October, and can be contacted on 01677 424604.
Bedale Museum is situated inside Bedale Hall.
A fascinating little museum depicting the life of ordinary people. Exhibits inlude the 1748 Bedale
hand-drawn fire engine. The museum is open from April-September, Tuesday and Friday from 10am-12.30 & 2pm to 4pm,
Wednesday 2pm-4pm, Thursday 10am-12noon and Saturdays 10am to 12noon. Admission is free. The Museum can be found
inside Bedale Hall opposite the Library.
Leech House is the only one of its kind and listed Grade II
by English Heritage. Leech House was used by the local Apothecary for the storing
of leeches and as such is a rare survival of what was a primitive
medical practice. The Bedale Heritage Trust raised funds to restore
this 18th century historical building. The Leech House
itself is only open to the public on heritage days, although visitors
are welcome to use the garden most days.
The Market Cross is 14th century. The Charter being granted
by Henry III in 1251. The cross is at the top of one of the oldest
streets in Bedale, Emgate which
was once a busy manufacturing area.
Robert Hind (1768-1841) the
author of "The Annals of Bedale" lived and worked in this street.
