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Yorkshire Dales National Park

Explore England’s vast Yorkshire Dales National Park, a stunning blend of limestone landscapes, iconic peaks, rich heritage, and pristine dark skies.

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Yorkshire Dales National Park is a vast and iconic protected area in northern England, covering 2,178 square kilometers of rolling uplands, limestone scenery, and picturesque valleys. Established in 1954 and extended in 2016, it offers spectacular natural beauty, diverse wildlife habitats, and rich cultural heritage. The park features famous landmarks such as the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Malham Cove, and numerous waterfalls, making it a premier destination for outdoor recreation and stargazing under its renowned dark skies.

A brief summary to Yorkshire Dales National Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring sturdy walking shoes to explore the diverse terrain, from gentle valley paths to challenging peak ascents.
  • Visit one of the park’s five visitor centres for maps, local advice, and information on seasonal events.
  • Plan a night visit to experience the park’s renowned dark skies and exceptional stargazing opportunities.
  • Use public transport like the DalesBus or Settle-Carlisle railway to reduce environmental impact and enjoy scenic journeys.
  • Respect private land and farming activities by sticking to marked trails and following countryside codes.
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Getting There

  • Train

    Take the iconic Settle-Carlisle railway line, which stops at stations such as Settle, Horton in Ribblesdale, Ribblehead, and Garsdale. Travel times from Leeds to Settle range from 1.5 to 2 hours. From the stations, local bus services or taxis provide access to key park areas. Train tickets typically cost £15–£30 one way.

  • Bus

    Use the DalesBus network, which connects towns like Leyburn, Hawes, and Reeth with the park’s walking routes and villages. Bus journeys vary from 30 minutes to over an hour depending on the route. Single fares range from £3 to £10. Services operate mainly from spring to autumn with limited winter schedules.

  • Car

    Driving is convenient with good road links from nearby cities such as Leeds, Bradford, and Manchester. The M6 motorway skirts the park to the west. Parking is available at visitor centres and trailheads but can be limited during peak seasons. Fuel and parking costs vary by location.

  • Cycling

    Cyclists can explore the park via an extensive network of bridleways and green lanes, including routes used in the Tour de France and Tour de Yorkshire. Terrain ranges from gentle valley roads to challenging upland climbs. Cycling is a sustainable way to experience the landscape at your own pace.

Yorkshire Dales National Park location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
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  • Weather icon Clear Skies
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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about Yorkshire Dales National Park

Expansive Landscape of the Yorkshire Dales

Spanning 2,178 square kilometers (841 square miles), the Yorkshire Dales National Park is one of England’s largest and most treasured natural areas. It straddles the central Pennines, primarily within North Yorkshire and Cumbria, with a small part extending into Lancashire. The park’s landscape is characterized by rolling uplands, dramatic limestone formations, and a patchwork of green valleys known as dales. This varied terrain includes the Howgill Fells and the Orton Fells, which add to the region’s rugged charm and outdoor appeal.

Natural Wonders and Iconic Features

The park is renowned for its spectacular natural features such as Malham Cove—a massive limestone amphitheater—Gordale Scar, Janet’s Foss waterfall, and the world-famous Aysgarth Falls. The Yorkshire Three Peaks—Ingleborough, Pen-y-ghent, and Whernside—are among the highest and most celebrated peaks in the region, attracting walkers and climbers seeking challenging and scenic hikes. The Dales also boast over a quarter of England’s flower-rich upland hay meadows, supporting important bird populations including curlew, lapwing, and black grouse.

Living Landscape and Cultural Heritage

Unlike many national parks, the Yorkshire Dales is a living, working environment home to around 24,000 residents. Over 95% of the land is privately owned, with more than 1,000 farms contributing to the traditional rural economy. The area’s cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with its landscape, reflected in its stone-built villages, historic railways like the Settle-Carlisle line, and longstanding farming practices. The park authority works to balance conservation with supporting local communities and sustainable tourism.

Outdoor Recreation and Access

Visitors to the Yorkshire Dales can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, mountain biking, and wildlife watching. The park has an extensive network of footpaths, bridleways, and green lanes, including routes used in the Tour de France and Tour de Yorkshire. Public transport options such as the DalesBus network and the Settle-Carlisle railway line provide accessible alternatives to car travel. Several visitor centres are located throughout the park, offering information and facilities to enhance the visitor experience.

Exceptional Dark Sky Reserve

In 2020, the Yorkshire Dales was designated an International Dark Sky Reserve, recognized for its outstanding night skies free from light pollution. This status highlights the park as a premier destination for stargazing and nocturnal nature experiences. The vast open vistas and remote locations within the park provide breathtaking views of the Milky Way and celestial events, making it a unique attraction for astronomy enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Conservation and Stewardship

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority plays a vital role in protecting the park’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultural assets. Working alongside local landowners, farmers, and communities, the authority promotes sustainable land management and visitor engagement. This stewardship ensures the park remains a cherished national treasure, balancing environmental preservation with the needs of those who live and work there and the millions who visit annually.

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