An extraordinary historic house and museum in Settle, nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales

The Folly is a unique Grade I listed gentry house. Built in 1679 as a gentleman’s residence and lawyer’s office, it has also been a farm, a lodging house, a furniture warehouse, doctor’s surgery, holiday let and even a fish and chip shop.

 

More about the building

The Folly is home to the Museum of North Craven Life

Discover the stories of Settle and its surroundings and check out our changing exhibitions featuring art, history and everything in between!

Bringing children? Explore the museum together with our Fun at the Folly family trail.

The Museum was created by the people of North Craven to reflect life in this area of the Yorkshire Dales. We are museum run by the community for the community, and for our visitors from around the world. To ensure we are here for you and future generations, find out how you can support us.

 

 

More about the museum

What’s on

All what's on

  • Curlew in flight

    Cry of the Curlew

    Sat, 15 February 2025 - Sat, 28 June 2025

    An exhibition highlighting the issues facing the curlew today through the stunning photography of Paco Valera, insightful poetry and prose...

  • Close up of architectural details of The Folly

    Tours of The Folly

    Thu, 5 June 2025 - Fri, 26 September 2025

    Join one of our volunteers for a tour of The Folly, a stunning grade I listed house in the North...

  • A close up of a bronze cauldron, showing a scowling man's face. He has shaggy hair all around, and a thick moustache. Above, two curls are sculpted into the lugs to hold a handle. The colours are deep green and brown

    Pan: The Piper At The Gates of Dawn & The Man Who Went Too Far

    Sun, 15 June 2025

    “A monstrous goat has been seen to skip with hellish glee about the woods, and this perhaps is connected with...

Visit us in Settle

Victoria Street, Settle, North Yorkshire, BD24 9EY

The Museum is normally open:
Tuesday – Saturday and bank holiday Mondays, 11:00am to 4:00pm (last admission 3:30pm)
We close for around 6 weeks in January and February each year

The Folly Coffee House is open:
Monday-Saturday 10:00am to 4:00pm

Plan your visit

THE FOLLY Victoria Street Settle North Yorkshire BD24 9EY