Local Information
General Kirk Smeaton information
Welcome to Kirk Smeaton
Kirk Smeaton is the most southerly village in North Yorkshire. It is also a civil parish falling under the Unitary Council of North Yorkshire. Historically the village previously resided in the West Riding of Yorkshire.
The Brockadale Nature Reserve is home to magnesian limestone rocky crags, beautiful flora (like the early purple orchid and the rare marbled white butterfly.) A great location for walkers and photographers.
Kirk Smeaton and the village of Little Smeaton face each other across the River Went, the most southerly boundary of the original Celtic Kingdom of Elmet, which is probably where the use of Kirk (Church) comes from. Hodge Lane foot bridge links the villages.
The North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire borders lie close to the village.
A railway used to run close to the south of the village with a railway station that opened in 1885 and was part of the Hull and Barnsley Railway Company. The station was closed completely in 1959.
A history of St Peter’s Church, written by resident Harry Robinson (now deceased), is available in print. 1840 saw the Earl Fitzwilliam bestow land for the foundation of Kirk Smeaton Church of England Primary School. The school buildings are currently a combination of new and old, with a sports hall and community room (both being available for hire).
A Post Office serves the local community from Main Street just over the road from the popular village pub, The Shoulder of Mutton.