[1][2] The village lies between the River Swale and its tributary, Gunnerside Beck, and is within the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

[3][4] Gunnerside Ghyll (or Gunnerside Gill), a smaller valley running northwards, at right angles to the Swale valley (Swaledale), was the site of a major lead mining industry in Swaledale from the 17th century[5] to the late 19th century.

[8] The bridge carries the B6270 over the River Swale south of the village; it was rebuilt several times during the 19th century due to flooding.

Gunnerside is served by a Methodist Chapel, a part-time post office, a weekly market, a restaurant and some shops selling food items.

[15] A private building to the north of the crossroads in the village was the site of a Medieval corn mill, and in the early 20th century, a bus garage.