Nowadays, this charming village provides a welcome retreat from the demands of modern life, nestled within the stunning Yorkshire countryside, though the locale is steeped in rich history.

Wandering through the peaceful hamlet of Rosedale Abbey, it's difficult to imagine that it once accommodated as many as 5,000 miners throughout the Industrial Revolution. From the 1850s through to the 1920s, it served as a hub of clamour and commerce, blanketed in a thick coating of soot, but those times are long gone.

These days, the village serves as a peaceful haven for visitors keen to discover the North York Moors National Park. Moulded by generations of hill farmers, the settlement lies at the very centre of the National Park, making it an ideal stopping point for those wishing to venture out.

• Ancient UK village with stunning ruins dubbed 'perfect'


• Overlooked seaside town with 'stunning location' and 'wonderful scenery'

Part of this heritage includes the industrial remnants of the 19th-century ironstone mining enterprise that operated in the village, commonly known as the Chimney Bank Mines. One guest described the location as a specimen of "interesting industrial archaeology".

They posted on TripAdvisor: "I found this site by accident whilst exploring the area and wished my limited mobility had allowed me to see more of this fascinating old mine, workings and buildings." Another visitor said: "What a stunning location with fantastic views high up on the Yorkshire moors and nice walks around the old kilns. Stunning drive and beautiful scenery."

Chimney Bank, known as the steepest public road in the country, was part of Rosedale's iron industry until 1982 when it was closed and labelled hazardous. Yet, thrill-seekers continue to tackle its steep climb. Cyclists have dubbed this challenging route 'The Chain Breaker', and it has even been ranked among the top 10 toughest cycle climbs in Britain.

Another historical gem within the village is the remnants of a former Cistercian priory. Today, only a staircase, a sundial and a single stone pillar remain. Founded between 1150 and 1199, the priory was suppressed in 1535, leaving behind just one prioress and eight nuns.

The priory was completely abandoned, and it's thought that the stones were repurposed to construct buildings within the village, including the church of St Mary and St Lawrence.

One visitor shared their experience: "Wowee- what a peaceful and romantic church here in Rosedale Abbey. The church is well equipped and it is truly remarkable and fabulous. The grounds are well kept, and the headstones are too. Such an idyllic setting!".

Another added: "Some parts of St Mary and St Lawrence need a lot of attention, yet it's a lovely church located in the centre of the village. When going in, it makes you 'go back in time'." They also praised the well-maintained graveyard, deeming it worth a visit.