The Great Yorkshire Day Out

Yorkshire Dales National Park Printable Guide

Yorkshire Dales National Park Guide

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Ultimate Guide to Yorkshire Dales National Park

The Yorkshire Dales National Park, located in the north of England, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, rich history, and abundant wildlife. Covering over 841 square miles, it offers visitors an incredible mix of activities and natural beauty.

Overview

  • Location: Northern England, encompassing parts of North Yorkshire, Cumbria, and Lancashire

  • Established: 1954

  • Size: Approximately 2,179 square kilometers (841 square miles)

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) for milder weather and fewer crowds

Getting There and Around

  • By Train: The Settle-Carlisle Railway is a scenic route with several stations within the park.

  • By Car: The A1(M), M6, and A65 provide access to the park from different parts of the UK.

  • By Bus: There are bus services from nearby towns such as Skipton, Harrogate, and Lancaster.

Top Attractions

  1. Malham Cove: A stunning limestone cliff with a natural amphitheater shape, Malham Cove offers great opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. The area is also known for its famous "limestone pavement."

  2. Aysgarth Falls: A series of cascading waterfalls along the River Ure, perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic. The falls are particularly impressive after heavy rain.

  3. Ribblehead Viaduct: A remarkable 24-arched railway bridge on the Settle-Carlisle Railway, Ribblehead Viaduct is an engineering marvel surrounded by the beauty of the Dales.

  4. Bolton Abbey: A historic and picturesque estate with the ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian monastery, surrounded by woodland and riverside walks.

  5. Hawes and Wensleydale Creamery: Hawes, a charming market town, is home to the Wensleydale Creamery, where visitors can learn about and sample the famous Wensleydale cheese.

  6. Ingleborough Cave and White Scar Cave: Two of the most impressive cave systems in the Dales, offering guided tours of underground formations and chambers.

  7. Grassington: A quintessential Yorkshire village with cobbled streets, stone cottages, independent shops, and cozy tea rooms. It’s a great base for exploring Wharfedale.

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking: The Yorkshire Dales offer some of the best hiking trails in the UK. Popular routes include:

    • The Three Peaks Challenge: A 24-mile route encompassing Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough.

    • Malham Tarn and Cove Circular Walk: A moderately challenging route that offers breathtaking views.

    • Swaledale Meadows: A gentler walk through one of the most scenic valleys.

  • Cycling: Several cycling routes are available for all levels, such as the Swale Trail for families and the challenging Buttertubs Pass.

  • Caving: The park is famous for its extensive cave systems. Gaping Gill and Alum Pot are popular for experienced cavers, while guided tours of White Scar Cave cater to beginners.

  • Wildlife Watching: Spot red squirrels, otters, and various bird species. Grass Wood Nature Reserve and Semerwater are popular for wildlife enthusiasts.

  • Rock Climbing: Malham Cove and Kilnsey Crag offer some of the best rock climbing spots in the UK, suitable for various skill levels.

Wildlife and Nature

The Yorkshire Dales is rich in diverse habitats, including hay meadows, limestone pavements, and ancient woodlands. Notable wildlife includes:

  • Birds: Peregrine falcons, curlews, and red grouse

  • Mammals: Red squirrels, otters, and roe deer

  • Flowers: Wild orchids, bluebells, and primroses

Accommodation Options

  • Hotels and Inns: Traditional country inns, such as The Devonshire Arms in Bolton Abbey and The Wheatsheaf Inn in Carperby, offer comfortable stays.

  • Bed and Breakfasts: There are numerous charming B&Bs in villages like Grassington, Reeth, and Hawes.

  • Holiday Cottages: Ideal for families or groups, cottages provide a home-away-from-home experience.

  • Camping and Glamping: The Dales offer excellent campsites and glamping options for those wanting a closer connection to nature.

Local Food and Drink

The Yorkshire Dales have a rich culinary heritage, with a variety of delicious local products to try:

  • Wensleydale Cheese: Made famous by the Wensleydale Creamery, this crumbly cheese is a must-try.

  • Yorkshire Pudding: A classic side dish, best enjoyed with a Sunday roast.

  • Yorkshire Dales Ale: The region boasts several craft breweries, including Black Sheep Brewery in Masham.

  • Parkin: A traditional Yorkshire ginger cake made with oatmeal, treacle, and ginger.

Events and Festivals

  • Grassington Festival (June): A two-week arts and music festival with performances, workshops, and street entertainment.

  • Hawes Sheep Show (June): A celebration of farming life, featuring sheepdog trials, sheep shows, and craft stalls.

  • Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival (August): A quirky village event with scarecrow displays, treasure hunts, and local crafts.

Tips for Visiting

  • Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared with waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear.

  • Respect the Countryside Code: Close gates, keep dogs on leads, and take litter home to help protect the environment.

  • Plan Ahead: Check the opening times of attractions and book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Useful Contacts

  • Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority: +44 (0)300 456 0030

  • National Park Visitor Centre: Locations at Aysgarth Falls, Grassington, and Hawes

Suggested Itineraries

  • 1-Day Itinerary:

    • Start at Malham Cove, walk to Janet’s Foss and Gordale Scar

    • Visit Aysgarth Falls in the afternoon

    • End your day at Bolton Castle for a touch of history

  • 3-Day Itinerary:

    • Day 1: Explore Grassington, Wharfedale, and visit Burnsall

    • Day 2: Take a walk around Malham Cove and Tarn, and visit Skipton Castle

    • Day 3: Discover Hawes, the Wensleydale Creamery, and Hardraw Force

  • 7-Day Itinerary: Combine the above with caving at White Scar Cave, a walk along the Settle-Carlisle Railway, and visits to more remote villages like Keld and Muker in Swaledale.

Conclusion

The Yorkshire Dales National Park offers something for every visitor, from thrilling outdoor adventures to peaceful walks through meadows. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, the Dales promise a memorable experience in one of the UK's most picturesque regions.