The Yorkshire Dales are a beautiful way to enjoy a staycation, from the stunning countryside to the elegant fine dining and amorous activities. However, if you are unsure about making the most of your stay, we have created a guide for everything to see and do in this iconic area of the UK.
Although the greatest attraction for visitors to the Yorkshire dales is all the picturesque walking routes, there are many other activities to explore. From trips along the railways to historical expeditions through some of the rich history, there is plenty to keep you busy between your rambling excursions.
The Wensleydale Railway is one of many UK heritage lines, starting at the County town of Northallerton to Redmire on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The route passes through the market town of Bedale and Layburn, with many beautiful scenes to enjoy.
Discover its history and the importance of a once great connection through the valleys. In the past, this line has seen a variety of traffic, from passengers, haulage of limestone and transporting military vehicles. They even offer a Polar Express Experience in the run-up to Christmas, perfect for precious family memories.
Home to the Museum of North Craven Life, this unique grade I listed building is located in Settle, the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. Having many personalities and functions over the years, you can step inside and discover the history of what was once a gentleman's residence in the 17th Century.
It offers fascinating tales of the people and landscape of North Craven alongside a coffee house and the stunning surroundings of the Ribble Valley. Owned by the North Craven Building Preservation Trust, you can learn about the rescue and preservation of the building, which also housed a farmhouse, bakery, warehouse and much more.
Whether you are looking for some beautiful new art, locally made crafts or a spot of afternoon tea, the Farfield Mill can offer this and more. With various workshops and exhibitions throughout the year, from local artwork to seasonal festivals, this is the place to be if you want to experience some of the area's local creativity.
This home of arts, crafts and heritage was once an old victorian mill but is now owned by a local cooperative to provide a space for creative enterprises. It offers a variety of handmade items, perfect for gifts or for treating yourself.
The Yorkshire dales are the ideal place to explore nature and its stunning scenery. Whether it's a stroll through the beautiful countryside, or something a little more adventurous, there are lots to do for all ages and abilities.
As the longest show cave in the UK, you can spend the afternoon exploring some beautiful waterfalls, curious rock formations and the intriguing history the cave offers. There are guided tours daily through the cave, which take around 80 minutes and are a mile long. You will experience narrow passages, low ceilings and the incredible works of nature's finest.
If caves capture your interest, the Yorkshire Dales have plenty to offer, including the Stump Cross Caverns. Discovered in 1860 by lead miners, Stump Cross Caverns has a rich history going back hundreds of millions of years. New passageways have been opened over the years, with remains of prehistoric creatures such as wolverines and reindeer found in the caves. They also turn on the UV lights at 3 pm to offer an even more magical experience.
With so much open space, the Yorkshire Dales have plenty of opportunities to experience the countryside on horseback. There are various trekking centres in the Dales which can cater for all skills and abilities. For those staying at our hot tub cottages in the Yorkshire Dales, you can book an experience with the incredible Stonetrail Riding Centre. They offer trails for capable riders experienced in cantering in open spaces. Alternatively, for inexperienced riders, the Kilnsey Trekking and Riding Centre offer lessons to get you started.
Of course, the main attraction in the Yorkshire Dales is the beautiful and picturesque landscape you can explore with hikes and trails for all ages and abilities.
Whether you are on a mission to raise money for charity or choose to endure a personal achievement, conquering the three highest peaks is a challenge for stamina. The Three Peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside are among the best-known hills in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Every year, thousands reach the top of at least one or conquer all three in one go. They are a great place to spend a few days, staying in the area and soaking up the scenery with your four-legged friends whilst visiting our dog-friendly cottages in the Yorkshire Dales.
Experience the beauty of the open countryside through the woods and alongside the spectacular Aysgarth Falls. This trail runs through Freeholders’ Wood and has excellent views of the Middle Falls. The surface here is compact aggregate, and the width of the footpath is at least 100cm. All gates are fully accessible, with benches along the route.
This walk takes you past the home of Wensleydale cheese, through the tiny streets of Gayle and up to the lovely waterfall of Aysgill Force. It is a distance of 4 miles and is low level, meaning there are no strenuous climbs. You can park up at Hawes National Park Centre, and the walk is a leisurely 1.5 miles, so ideal for little legs.
All of our luxury holiday cottages in the Yorkshire Dales are self-catering, having somewhere to eat for a relaxing evening after exploring the Yorkshire Dales is essential for a perfect stay.
The Angel at Hetton – Offering exquisite food, this Michelin Starred restaurant is widely regarded as the UK's original gastropub. They offer seasonal menus and unique dishes full of flavour, underpinned by a contemporary, less formal approach to fine cuisine. Indulge in beautiful food whilst getting comfy in the cosy 15th-century inn.
Yorebridge House – Located in the village of Bainbridge, this award-winning restaurant dedicates itself to producing inspiring and innovative dishes. The evening menu boasts an abundance of exciting flavours with surprises throughout, including canapés, amuse bouche, pre-dessert, tea or coffee and truffles. Interesting fact, the building used to be home to the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, which used the building as its Head Office for many years.
The Burlington Restaurant – Offering seasonal menus and located in the opulent Devonshire Arms Hotel and spa, you can enjoy the rich and tasteful dishes this restaurant has to offer. By ensuring sustainability with a seed to plate policy, you can be sure that every meal has been cooked with care and attention.
If you are ready to book a retreat in the stunning Yorkshire Dales, get in touch with us today to find a beautiful staycation for you, we even take group bookings for larger parties.
