Goathland, North Yorkshire

Deep in the heart of the North Yorkshire Moors lies a small village called Goathland. Perhaps best known as the location for the ITV drama Heartbeat, this charming village, with its picturesque thatched cottages and stunning countryside, has a unique cartographical feature that sets it apart from other rural villages in England.

At the heart of the village, there is a small triangular green known as The Village Green. While this may not seem like an extraordinary feature, what makes it unique is that it is actually the meeting point of three separate parishes. The green, which is about 300 yards in length, is shared by the parishes of Goathland, Beck Hole, and Mallyan Spout.

This unusual cartographical feature dates back to the early medieval period, when land ownership and parish boundaries were established. It is believed that the boundaries were drawn in such a way as to ensure that each parish had access to the valuable resources of the moors, including water, grazing land, and timber.

Despite its small size, The Village Green has played an important role in the history of the area. In the past, it was used as a gathering place for community events, such as fairs and markets, and as a site for public punishment. Today, it is a popular spot for tourists to relax and take in the beautiful scenery.

For me, the unique cartographical feature of The Village Green is a fascinating example of how history, geography, and politics intersect to shape the world around us. It is a reminder that even in small, rural villages, there is often a wealth of fascinating stories and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.