Cowling is a village and civil parish in North Yorkshire, England, located near the borders with West Yorkshire and Lancashire. As of the 2011 census, it had a population of around 2,355 people. It is situated within the Craven district and lies close to the edge of the Pennine hills.

The village has Saxon origins and was recorded in the Domesday Book as “Collinge,” meaning “Coll’s people or tribe.” Historically, Cowling consisted of several smaller hamlets, including Ickornshaw, Middleton, Gill, and Cowling Hill. The modern village developed in the late 18th century, with the construction of the Keighley to Colne road (now the A6068) and the growth of the textile industry. Mills were built along the road, and terraced cottages for workers followed. The first mill, Ickornshaw Mill, was completed in 1791. The textile mills were a major source of employment until their closure in the late 20th century, after which many of the former industrial sites were redeveloped.

Cowling is especially known for two prominent landmarks on Earl Crag: Wainman’s Pinnacle and Lund’s Tower. These stone monuments, built in the 19th century, are affectionately known as the “Salt and Pepper Pots” due to their shapes. Wainman’s Pinnacle was likely constructed to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo.

Today, Cowling serves largely as a residential village for people working in nearby towns across West Yorkshire and East Lancashire. It maintains a strong community spirit, hosting local events such as the annual Cowling Gala. The village is also home to Drystone Radio, a local community radio station.

A notable figure from Cowling is Philip Snowden, who served as Chancellor of the Exchequer in the first two Labour governments and later became Viscount Snowden of Ickornshaw. His ashes were scattered on Ickornshaw Moor, where a memorial cairn now stands.

Cowling combines rural charm, historical interest, and access to scenic countryside, making it a distinctive part of North Yorkshire.