From medieval castles to picturesque canalside pubs, and bustling high streets lined with quirky independent shops, they boast plenty of attractions.
They’re not just great places to visit but excellent spots in which to live and set down roots, thanks to their thriving communities.
Many of them have their own railway stations, with direct trains connecting them to cities including York, Leeds, Manchester, Sheffield and London.
We’ve put together a list of the best market towns across Yorkshire with good railway links.
They boast stunning country walks, low crime rates, vibrant arts and culture venues, and top-notch food and drinks scenes.
Among them is the nation’s highest market town, another boasting the world’s oldest musical hall, and a third which was home to one of the UK’s best-loved authors, whose tales of country life have enchanted readers and viewers alike.
Some have been named among the UK’s best places to live, some are popular with first-time buyers thanks to their affordable housing, and others are loved by families thanks to their excellent schools.
How many of these places have you visited, and would you consider relocating to any of these lovely market towns?
If you enjoyed this article, you might be interested in this look at the UK’s best commuter towns.
5. Northallerton
Northallerton is a pretty market town in North Yorkshire, surrounded by spectacular countryside. It boasts a bustling town centre, bursting with independent shops, pubs and cafes; excellent schools; and a good community vibe, with plenty to do. Northallerton is well connected, with direct trains running to London, Edinburgh and Manchester. | Google Photo: Google
6. Settle
Settle is nestled high in the Yorkshire Dales, with peaks, caves, waterfalls and more to explore nearby in the stunning countryside. The ancient market town is teeming with history, from its pretty stone cottages to the world's oldest music hall, and it boasts lots of independent shops, pubs and galleries. It is located on the picturesque Settle-Carlisle railway line, with direct trains running to Leeds in as little as 59 minutes. | National World Photo: Bruce Rollinson
7. Penistone
Penistone, in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, is the country's highest market town, with a rich history, lovely independent shops and charming traditional pubs. It's surrounded by beautiful countryside, with the Peak District just a short drive away, and it has a friendly community feel. Sheffield is just 45 minutes away by train. | Google Photo: Google
8. Skipton
Skipton is known as the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales. The bustling market town, straddling the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, has plenty of history, including one of the nation's best-preserved medieval castles. Its independent shops, cafes and pubs, along with its friendly community, have seen it named as one of the best - and happiest - places to live not just in Yorkshire but the UK as a whole. Skipton is just over half an hour from Leeds and Bradford by train. | Google Photo: Google