Exploring the Majestic Yorkshire Dales National Park
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Yorkshire Dales National Park, a paradise of rolling hills, wildlife, and rich history in the heart of England.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is a breathtaking expanse of natural beauty, ideal for those seeking adventure, tranquility, and stunning landscapes. With its rolling hills, vibrant valleys, and rich wildlife, this national park offers an escape into nature for outdoor enthusiasts and serene explorers alike. From hiking trails to quaint villages, every corner of this park whispers the charm of the English countryside.
A brief summary to Yorkshire Dales National Park
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or autumn for the most vibrant scenery and fewer crowds.
- Check the local weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the Dales.
- Consider staying in a local village to experience traditional Yorkshire hospitality and cuisine.
- Bring sturdy walking shoes and a refillable water bottle for your adventures in the park.
- Explore lesser-known trails to avoid the crowds and discover hidden gems within the park.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is easily accessible via major roads. From Leeds, take the A65 towards Skipton. Continue on the A65 until you reach the junction with the A682, then turn left onto the A682 towards Gisburn. Follow the A682 until you reach the park entrance. Parking is available at various locations within the park, including the popular spots at Malham Cove and Hawes. Note that some car parks may charge a fee, usually around £5 for a day's parking.
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Train and Bus
To reach the Yorkshire Dales using public transport, take a train from Leeds to Skipton. Trains run frequently, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. From Skipton, you can catch a bus towards Grassington or Malham. The bus service is operated by DalesBus, and you can check their schedule online. The bus fare is approximately £5 for a single journey. Please ensure to check the return times, as services may be limited in the evening.
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Taxi
Another option is to take a taxi from nearby towns such as Skipton or Settle directly to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This might be more expensive, with fares typically ranging from £20 to £40 depending on your starting point and the specific location within the park you wish to visit. Taxis can be booked in advance or found at local taxi ranks.
Discover more about Yorkshire Dales National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ribblehead Viaduct
11.3 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Ribblehead Viaduct, an architectural marvel surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
Culloden Tower
34.6 km
Historic Culloden Tower in Richmond offers a unique self-catering stay blending heritage charm with modern comfort in Yorkshire’s scenic market town.
Nidderdale National Landscape
35.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Nidderdale National Landscape, where nature meets adventure in an unforgettable Yorkshire escape.
National Trust - Sizergh
35.9 km
Discover the enchanting Sizergh Manor, a historical gem in the Lake District with beautiful gardens and rich heritage.
Levens Hall
36.2 km
Explore the enchanting gardens and rich history of Levens Hall, a stunning landmark in Kendal, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Barnard Castle
36.7 km
Discover Barnard Castle, a stunning historical landmark with breathtaking views and rich stories waiting to be explored.
Bolton Priory
37.6 km
Explore the peaceful charm of Bolton Priory, a historic Anglican church set in the stunning Yorkshire Dales, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Leighton Hall Estate
37.8 km
Discover the charm and history of Leighton Hall Estate, a captivating destination in Carnforth featuring stunning gardens and rich heritage.
The Norman Centre
39.1 km
Uncover the historical marvels of The Norman Centre in Appleby-in-Westmorland, where medieval architecture meets rich storytelling.
Sawley Abbey
39.5 km
Medieval Cistercian ruins beside the River Ribble, shaped by poverty, conflict, and defiant faith.
Forest of Bowland National Landscape
40.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, a serene escape filled with rolling hills, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
National Trust - Brimham Rocks
40.9 km
Explore Brimham Rocks, a breathtaking country park in Yorkshire Dales known for its spectacular rock formations and diverse hiking trails.
Halton Castle (Remains)
41.1 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of Halton Castle, a historical landmark in Lancaster offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval heritage.
Blacko Tower
42.8 km
Explore the enchanting Blacko Tower in Pendle, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a serene escape into nature's beauty.
Lune Aqueduct
42.8 km
Explore Britain’s largest all-masonry aqueduct, a Georgian engineering marvel spanning the River Lune with stunning views and rich industrial heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Snaizeholme Red Squirrel Sanctuary
3.7 km
Discover the elusive red squirrels of Yorkshire Dales on a tranquil woodland trail through fragrant spruce forests and scenic wild habitats.
Gayle Mill
4.5 km
Explore the oldest unaltered cotton mill in the UK, a working water-powered sawmill steeped in industrial and wartime history in the heart of Wensleydale.
Dales Countryside Museum
5.2 km
Discover the Yorkshire Dales’ heritage in a historic railway station with interactive exhibits, family activities, and stunning cultural displays.
Hardraw Force Waterfall
6.3 km
Experience the breathtaking power of England’s highest single drop waterfall, set in the scenic Yorkshire Dales and steeped in history and natural beauty.
Semer Water Nature Reserve
6.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich wildlife of Semer Water, a rare natural lake and nature reserve in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Cotter Force
7.0 km
A six-stepped waterfall in peaceful woodland with a fully accessible path and pristine swimming pool.
Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority
8.9 km
England's limestone heartland: where heritage records meet wild moorland and welcoming valleys.
The Moorcock Inn
9.7 km
A welcoming, rustic inn in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, perfect for hearty meals, local ales, and peaceful countryside stays.
Cray Gill Waterfall
10.2 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Cray Gill Waterfall, a hidden cascade nestled in the scenic Yorkshire Dales countryside.
Middle Falls
10.3 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Middle Falls, a hidden waterfall gem nestled in the scenic Yorkshire Dales near Buckden.
Hull Pot
11.0 km
Explore England’s largest natural pothole, Hull Pot, a dramatic collapsed cavern with stunning waterfall displays in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Buttertubs Pass
11.1 km
Experience the breathtaking limestone potholes and thrilling mountain road of Buttertubs Pass, a Yorkshire Dales icon blending natural wonder and historic charm.
Buckden Beck
11.7 km
Discover the serene series of waterfalls hidden in Buckden’s valley, blending natural beauty with family-friendly walks in the Yorkshire Dales.
Gastack Beck Waterfall
13.6 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Gastack Beck Waterfall, a hidden natural retreat in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Aysgarth Edwardian Rock Garden
14.8 km
Discover a tranquil Edwardian-era limestone rock garden with winding paths, arches, and a waterfall nestled in the heart of Aysgarth village.
Essential places to dine
The Crown Hawes
5.0 km
A traditional Yorkshire Dales pub offering hearty meals, local ales, and warm hospitality in the heart of Hawes Market Place.
The White Hart Inn, Hawes
5.0 km
A cozy, traditional Yorkshire pub and inn in Hawes offering hearty local fare, comfortable rooms, and warm Dales hospitality.
Stone House Hotel
6.3 km
Elegant Edwardian country house hotel offering scenic Yorkshire Dales views, refined dining, and warm hospitality near Hawes.
Sycamore Restaurant
9.0 km
Authentic British dining with rustic charm in the scenic village of Bainbridge, celebrating local flavors and warm hospitality.
Yorebridge House
9.5 km
Experience refined luxury and serene beauty at Yorebridge House, a boutique 5-star retreat in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Wensleydale Heifer
20.4 km
Luxury boutique hotel and acclaimed fine dining in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, offering themed rooms and local culinary delights.
The Fox & Hounds Inn
20.5 km
Experience authentic Yorkshire hospitality at The Fox & Hounds Inn in West Witton - where comfort meets tradition.
The Foresters Arms
20.9 km
A welcoming community pub in picturesque Carlton-in-Coverdale, blending traditional charm with quality food and local spirit.
The Secret Garden Bistro
22.4 km
A pioneering plant-based bistro in Malham offering innovative, sustainable dishes in a serene Yorkshire Dales setting.
The Lister Arms
22.6 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Malham offering cozy rooms, hearty local cuisine, and a welcoming pub atmosphere in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Black Swan
23.2 km
Charming 4-star inn in Ravenstonedale offering award-winning dining, cosy rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere near the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District.
The Saddle Room Restaurant
23.7 km
Experience refined English dining and boutique comfort in the tranquil countryside of Leyburn’s historic Tupgill Park Stables.
The Old Hall Inn
25.1 km
Historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality await at The Old Hall Inn in the heart of Grassington village.
The Bolton Arms
25.8 km
Historic Yorkshire pub offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Leyburn.
The Blue Lion Inn, Pub and Restaurant with Accommodation
28.6 km
Quintessential Yorkshire Dales inn blending rustic charm, hearty cuisine, and cozy accommodation in the heart of East Witton village.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mulberry Bush and Yorkshire Sheepskins
5.0 km
A charming Yorkshire gift shop in Hawes offering unique sheepskins, local crafts, and a warm, traditional welcome.
Swaledale Woollens
13.8 km
Discover authentic, handmade woollen knitwear crafted by local artisans in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales at Swaledale Woollens.
Dent Stores B&B
15.3 km
Historic Dent village B&B blending traditional charm with modern comfort and a top-rated breakfast in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Hillside Toys -Farm Models & Toys
20.6 km
Discover a nostalgic world of farm models and classic toys at Hillside Toys in Ingleton, where agricultural heritage comes to life.
C&K
21.6 km
A charming independent lifestyle store and café in Settle’s Market Place, blending boutique shopping with local flavors and welcoming ambiance.
Church Gallery
25.2 km
A multi-level gem in Kirkby Stephen: browse quirky gifts and cards, sip coffee, and shop ladies’ clothes in a dog-friendly, relaxed café-shop hybrid.
The Book Lounge
25.4 km
Discover a cozy haven of books, puzzles, and community spirit in the heart of Kirkby Lonsdale’s historic Main Street.
The Walking Shop
25.9 km
Your trusted outdoor gear specialist in Leyburn, offering expert advice and quality equipment for Yorkshire Dales adventures.
The Old Curiosity Shop
34.9 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques at The Old Curiosity Shop in Kendal, where every item tells a story.
Sainsbury's
34.9 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
Iluvmemost Boutique
35.0 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in Kendal’s charming Iluvmemost Boutique, where quality meets personalized service in a cozy setting.
Westmorland Shopping Centre
35.0 km
Explore the diverse shopping and dining experiences at Westmorland Shopping Centre, a must-visit destination in Kendal for tourists.
Clarks Outlet
35.0 km
Discover quality footwear and great savings at Clarks Outlet, Kendal’s trusted shoe destination in the Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Kendal Indoor market
35.0 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Ryman Stationery
35.0 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hawes Club
5.0 km
A friendly, affordable bar on Main Street offering casual drinks, sports, and a pool table in the heart of Hawes.
The Green Dragon Inn
6.3 km
Historic Yorkshire coaching inn with cozy fires, hearty pub fare, and scenic Dales setting near Hardraw Force waterfall.
The George Inn
9.7 km
Traditional Yorkshire Dales pub with award-winning pies, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality nestled in the scenic village of Hubberholme.
Yorkshire Dales Brewery
10.3 km
Experience authentic Yorkshire craft beers and seasonal taproom charm in the heart of the stunning Yorkshire Dales.
The King's Arms Hotel
10.9 km
Historic Yorkshire Dales pub and hotel famed for warm hospitality, hearty local fare, and charming traditional rooms in Askrigg village.
The Crown Inn
11.0 km
A friendly, family-run pub in Askrigg offering hearty local food, fine ales, and a warm Yorkshire welcome in the heart of the Dales.
The Queens Arms
12.0 km
Historic 17th-century Yorkshire pub in Litton offering award-winning local cuisine, cozy ambiance, and handcrafted ales in the heart of the Dales.
Farmers Arms
13.8 km
A beloved traditional pub in Muker offering hearty food, cozy charm, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Street head inn
14.0 km
A cozy Yorkshire Dales pub with hearty meals, local ales, and stunning countryside views in Newbiggin near Leyburn.
Aysgarth Falls Hotel & Restaurant
15.6 km
Charming hotel with stunning Yorkshire Dales views, fine dining, and cozy rooms near the iconic Aysgarth Falls.
G & P Events and Mobile Bars
16.8 km
Experience bespoke mobile bar services and event hospitality in the scenic heart of Kettlewell, blending professional expertise with rural charm.
The Blue Bell Inn
16.8 km
Historic 17th-century inn offering cozy rooms, hearty local fare, and a welcoming atmosphere in scenic Kettlewell, Yorkshire Dales.
Settle Working Mens Club
21.8 km
Authentic local bar in Settle offering affordable drinks, vibrant community spirit, and a welcoming atmosphere in a historic market town setting.
The Buck Inn Malham
22.6 km
A rustic, welcoming pub and inn in Malham offering hearty fare and cozy rooms amid the stunning Yorkshire Dales landscape.
The Gamekeeper's Inn
23.6 km
A charming countryside inn blending rustic hospitality, comfortable stays, and delicious local cuisine in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Queen's Head, Finghall
32.6 km
A quintessential English country pub and inn in Finghall offering hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality in scenic North Yorkshire.
Louis Bar
35.0 km
A vibrant nightclub and bar in Catterick Garrison offering live music, quality food, and a lively atmosphere for all-night entertainment.
sherdy sherd primary school
36.3 km
Experience Richmond’s vibrant nightlife at Sherdy Sherd Primary School, a uniquely named nightclub with extensive hours and lively atmosphere.
Windermere Social Club
46.4 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
47.3 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
secret bridge
50.4 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
50.4 km
Vibrant nightclub and restaurant in Whalley offering lively weekend events, diverse music, and friendly service in Ribble Valley’s heart.
The Redroom Burnley
52.5 km
Experience Burnley’s vibrant nightlife with The Redroom’s lively music, diverse drinks, and late-night party atmosphere in the town centre.
Penrith Conservative Club
56.3 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit and affordable fun at Penrith Conservative Club, a welcoming hub in the heart of Penrith.
The Warehouse
56.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Warehouse in Penrith, offering themed parties, great music, and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
The loose moose
56.6 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
56.9 km
Discover the charm of Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom, a delightful pub and restaurant offering local culinary delights in the heart of Ullswater.
New Inn
63.8 km
Traditional Headingley pub with roaring fires, cask ales, and community spirit on lively Otley Road—a cozy cornerstone of Leeds life.
Blitz Venue & Nightclub
63.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Preston at Blitz Venue & Nightclub, where live music and affordable drinks create unforgettable evenings.
Switch Nightclub
63.9 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.