Yorkshire Dales Travel Guide

Plan your Yorkshire Dales adventure with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore stunning natural attractions and culturally important landmarks, try delicious local dishes and beverages, and learn about the local culture and customs.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Yorkshire Dales

Yorkshire Dales is a 2,179 square kilometre National Park in North Yorkshire, England. It’s a land of rolling hills, scenic valleys, cascading waterfalls, and deep caves that attracts thousands of visitors every year. Plan your Yorkshire Dales adventure with this comprehensive travel guide.

Introduction to Yorkshire Dales

Yorkshire Dales is a vast expanse of natural beauty that spans across North Yorkshire, in Yorkshire, in England, in United Kingdom, in Britain and Ireland, in Europe. Visitors flock here to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, breathe in fresh air and enjoy walking, cycling, and exploring the countless attractions this region has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Yorkshire Dales

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Bolton Castle: A historic castle built in the 14th century and visited by Mary Queen of Scots during her imprisonment.
  2. Fountains Abbey: A magnificent 12th-century abbey that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  3. The Mart Theatre: A small-but-intimate theatre that hosts regular productions complemented by a friendly bar and restaurant.

Natural Attractions of Yorkshire Dales: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Malham Cove: A stunning limestone formation that is awe-inspiring to see. Look out for the Gordale Scar nearby.
  2. Aysgarth Falls: A scenic waterfall where visitors can enjoy a relaxing riverside walk.
  3. The Yorkshire Three Peaks: A scenic route that includes climbs (and descents) to the top of three of Yorkshire’s highest peaks - Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yorkshire Dales

If you’re looking for the best hiking and biking routes in Yorkshire Dales, check out some of the following options:

  1. The Pennine Way: A challenging but rewarding hike that’s 268 miles long. It takes you through seven national parks, including Yorkshire Dales.
  2. The Nidderdale Way: A leisurely hike that takes around seven days, with the option to include biking too.
  3. The Settle-Carlisle Railway: Not a traditional hiking route, but you can walk the 73 miles of the railway’s path for an unforgettable journey of stunning views.

Best Things to Do in Yorkshire Dales: Activities and Tours

  1. Caving and Climbing: Explore the deep, twisting caves and enticingly difficult climbs that Yorkshire Dales has to offer.
  2. Horse Riding: Book a guided tour that takes you on a leisurely ride through the scenic countryside.
  3. Heritage Trail: Discover the history and stories of Yorkshire Dales with the help of heritage walks and trails.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yorkshire Dales

If you’re planning to spend a week in Yorkshire Dales, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Visit Bolton Castle
2 Hiking in Malham Cove and Gordale Scar
3 Day trip to Hawes for some cheese tasting
4 Enjoy a heritage trail and visit Fountains Abbey
5 Bike through Nidderdale Way
6 Discover the Settle-Carlisle Railway
7 Take an adrenaline-filled caving or climbing excursion

Food and Drink Scene of Yorkshire Dales

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Yorkshire Pudding: A well-known and loved dish all over the UK, Yorkshire Pudding is a must-try if you’re in Yorkshire Dales.
  2. Roast Beef: Yorkshire Dales is famous for its delicious and tender beef, roasted to perfection.
  3. Parkin: An oat-based ginger cake that has a long history in the region.

Local Beverages

  1. Yorkshire Tea: A classic tea loved by people all over the UK, you can’t visit Yorkshire Dales without having a cup of Yorkshire Tea.
  2. Real Ale: Yorkshire Dales is home to some of the best breweries in the UK; try some local brews like Theakston Old Peculier, Timothy Taylor’s Landlord, or Black Sheep Ale.

Where to Stay in Yorkshire Dales: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The Buck Inn: A charming hotel in the heart of Malham that’s perfect if you’re looking to explore the surrounding hills and valleys.
  2. YHA Hawes: A budget-friendly hostel that’s great for hikers and those looking for an affordable place to stay and relax.
  3. The Blue Lion: A luxury guesthouse that offers excellent food and cosy lodging in an idyllic location.

What to Buy in Yorkshire Dales: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Cheese from the Wensleydale Creamery: Wensleydale Cheese is a staple in Yorkshire, and the Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes is a must-visit for cheese lovers.
  2. Local Honey: Yorkshire Dales is home to a thriving beekeeping community, and you can buy locally-produced honey from many shops and cafes.
  3. Handmade Crafts: The region is known for its talented artisans, and you can find beautifully crafted items like pottery, glassware, and knitwear in many shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Yorkshire Dales

The people of Yorkshire Dales are proud of their heritage and traditions. Visitors should respect the local culture by being polite, courteous, and attentive to the customs.

Best Time to Visit Yorkshire Dales

The weather is generally mild in Yorkshire Dales, but the best time to visit is between April and September when the days are longer and warmer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yorkshire Dales

Do:

  1. Respect the natural environment and maintain it for future generations.
  2. Be friendly and courteous to locals and other visitors.
  3. Take part in local events and activities.

Don’t:

  1. Leave your litter behind. Take it with you and dispose of it in the appropriate places.
  2. Wander off the designated paths and trails.
  3. Interfere with the wildlife or livestock.

Safety and Health

Safety in Yorkshire Dales

  1. Check the weather forecast before heading out and dress appropriately.
  2. Take enough food and water with you on your hiking or biking tours.
  3. Don’t go alone, especially if you’re heading to remote areas.

Health in Yorkshire Dales

  1. Be aware of the risks of Lyme disease, especially if you’re planning to hike in the countryside.
  2. Don’t drink unpurified water from rivers or streams. Use filters or purifiers.

Getting to Yorkshire Dales: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Yorkshire Dales

  1. Leeds Bradford International Airport (LBA)
  2. Manchester Airport (MAN)
  3. Newcastle Airport (NCL)

Bus Stations Near Yorkshire Dales

  1. Skipton Bus Station
  2. Richmond Bus Station
  3. Hawes Bus Station

Other Options

  1. Train: The Settle-Carlisle Railway is a scenic route that takes you through the heart of the countryside.
  2. Car: Driving to Yorkshire Dales is easy, and there are plenty of car rental options available.

How to Get Around in Yorkshire Dales

The best way to get around Yorkshire Dales is on foot or bike, but if you need to travel further, car rental or public transport is available.

Where to Go Next from Yorkshire Dales: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Lake District: A scenic region of England that’s famous for its beautiful lakes, mountains, and walking routes.
  2. Durham: A historic city that’s home to Durham Cathedral and Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  3. Haworth: A pretty village that’s famous for being the home of the Bronte sisters.

Conclusion

Yorkshire Dales is a beautiful region with endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and culinary delights. Use the information in this guide to plan your visit and make the most of your time in this stunning part of England.

Yorkshire Dales National Park Marker Yorkshire Dales National Park Marker Malham Cove, Yorkshire Dales Malham Cove, Yorkshire Dales Archway in Askrigg Archway in Askrigg View into Swaledale (to the south-east) from the Pennine Way along Kisdon Hill View into Swaledale (to the south-east) from the Pennine Way along Kisdon Hill