So, have you visited the South Riding of Yorkshire?

Cast of BBC's South Riding.

Yes, we know it's a work of fiction, but fans of the BBC series (showing in May on Masterpiece Classics on PBS in the USA) could be forgiven for feeling there actually was a South Riding in the 1930's. Ridings, however, only come in threes, as the name comes from the Danish word 'thridding' meaning a third, a legacy of Yorkshire's rich and ancient history. 

The series, based on Winifred Holtby's novel, used many locations in the East Riding where her book is recognisably based, showcasing some of Yorkshire's beautiful coastline and countryside, and evoking a strong sense of the period in which it was set.

More background on the book and the series can be found here:

Winifred Holtby's South Riding   Guardian   Feb 18 2011

The tragic story of 'South Riding'   Independent  Feb 18 2011

Why South Riding feels like a 21st century drama  Sunday Mercury  Feb 20 2011