day trip yorkshire dales

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in the Yorkshire Dales Itinerary

Published on June 29, 2023

by Olivia Ellis

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Visiting the English countryside is one of the most enjoyable parts of any trip to England , and planning a Yorkshire Dales itinerary is a must. From dramatic terrains and historic castles to idyllic villages, spending 2 to 3 days in the Yorkshire Dales will take you on a journey throughout one of England’s most beautiful national parks.

As one of England’s largest National Parks, the Yorkshire Dales is the epitome of classic English Countryside; quaint, historic, picturesque, timeless and waiting to be explored.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the Yorkshire Dales?

The first step to planning a Yorkshire Dales itinerary is deciding how many days to spend in the Yorkshire Dales. With that being said, you could easily spend a full week in the Yorkshire Dales exploring the extent of the park. However, if you’re short on time, 2-3 days is best.

With 2 days in the Yorkshire Dales, you’ll be able to enjoy more than just one area or town in the park, giving a broader experience in the national park and the chance to stay the night in one of the park’s quaint towns or villages.

If you decide to spend 3 days in the Yorkshire Dales, your extended time and extra day in the park will allow you to explore even further, enjoying other areas, famous landmarks, and enjoying a hike or two.

Getting To & Around the Yorkshire Dales

When it comes to getting to and around the Yorkshire Dales, it’s fair to say that driving to/around the park as part of a Yorkshire Dales road trip is the ideal mode of transportation.

By renting a car and driving throughout your time in the park, you’ll have the most flexibility as to where to go, how long to spend in each location, and the option of visiting locations not included on the bus routes throughout the park. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices across major companies.

From larger nearby North Yorkshire cities of Leeds and York , you can reach the Yorkshire Dales in around an hour and from Manchester , around an hour and a half. You can also easily reach the lovely Yorkshire coast from the Dales.

A great option to explore the national parks of northern England is to combine a Yorkshire Dales itinerary with time in the Lake District National Park , England’s largest national park, just 30 minutes away from the Yorkshire Dales.

With that being said, there is a bus service throughout the Yorkshire Dales National Park, connecting the park itself, along with a few cities and towns outside of the park.

Throughout the year, there’s a generous number of active routes, and in the high season between April and October, other routes are added as supplements.

When it comes to accommodation, basing yourself in the town of Skipton or Harrogate are both good options with easy access.

If you don’t want to drive, it is possible to take organised tours from York such as this full-day tour or this private tour.

2 to 3 Days in the Yorkshire Dales Itinerary

From serene, awe-inspiring waterfalls to idyllic villages and delicious food, there’s something for everyone during these 3 days spent in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Day 1 – Skipton & Malham

A convenient and ideal start to any trip to the Yorkshire Dales is in the town of Skipton, otherwise known as “the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales”.

Dating back over 1,000 years, Skipton is a town steeped in history and heritage. As an important market town since medieval times, a visit to Skipton has many things to offer, including Skipton Castle and Skipton Market.

Skipton Castle was first built in the 11th century and has since been passed through various notable families, as well as held a major role in many events, including the English Civil War. A visit to Skipton Castle is a great way to learn more about the history of the area, as well as what life was like in Skipton centuries ago.

For an even more comprehensive visit, take part in one of the guided tours that the castle offers. Otherwise, enjoy exploring the castle independently at your own pace. The castle is open every day of the week with various ticket costs depending on the age and size of your group.

After visiting Skipton Castle, make sure to stop by the famed Skipton Market, which is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, every week. Skipton Market has been in operation for over 800 years, and to this day still offers a wide assortment of various local goods, from produce to clothing and antiques.

Bolton Abbey Estate

After spending time in the town of Skipton, take a short 10-minute drive to your next stop, Bolton Abbey Estate.

While known as Bolton Abbey due to its location, what you’ll actually be visiting are the remnants of Bolton Priory, an Augustinian monastery established in the 12th century as well as the surrounding areas of the estate.

During your visit, make sure to spend time visiting the centerpiece of the estate, the ruins of Bolton Priory as well as enjoying the pleasant riverside walks in the area running along the River Wharf.

Weather depending, this is also your perfect opportunity to enjoy a scenic picnic surrounded by nature and history!

Malham Cove

From Bolton Abbey, travel around 25 km northwest further into the Yorkshire Dales to one of the park’s most famous land formations, Malham Cove. Malham Cove is a natural limestone cavern formation that’s enticed visitors for centuries due to its impressive geological features and stunning appearance.

Malham Cove was formed around 12,000 years ago during the last ice age and has its current appearance due to the melting of glacier ice, leaving a large hollowed-out, half-domed shaped cliff behind.

Malham Cove is open 24 hours a day and is free for visitors to visit and explore its magnificence.

Near Malham, you can also visit the beautiful Gordale Scar, another beautiful geological formation in a river gorge close to the village.

Dinner at Lister Arms

There’s no better fitting way to end a day exploring the countryside of the Yorkshire Dales, than by heading to a cosy, local pub to enjoy a comforting, traditional meal and a pint of something local.

A great option is Lister Arms, a top-rated pub and inn in the town of Malham. As this is the last stop of day 1, Malham is also a great area to stay for the night, for its beautiful surroundings and close proximity to where you’ll begin day 2.

Day 2 – Wensleydale & Hawes

Ribblehead viaduct.

Begin your second day in the Yorkshire Dales at one of Yorkshire’s most iconic sights, the Ribblehead Viaduct. Spanning an impressive length of 400 meters and consisting of 24 stone arches, the Ribblehead Viaduct is truly an impressive structure.

The viaduct is located near the village of Ribblehead, between the towns of Settle and Carlisle, and is accessible by both road and railway (Ribblehead Station), depending on your means of transportation.

With such a stunning backdrop and the Ribblehead Viaduct being surrounded by stunning countryside, the surrounding area offers fantastic walking and hiking opportunities. If you’re keen to get out on the trails and enjoy the Yorkshire Dales countryside, this is an ideal opportunity.

If you want to take in some more natural sites, then consider heading over to nearby Ingleton and visit the gorgeous Ingleton Waterfalls, which aren’t far from the viaduct. En route, you can also pass by the Yorkshire Three Peaks of Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent.

Wensleydale Creamery

While the majority of famous English cheeses hail from the south of the country, Yorkshire is the home to one of England’s most well-known and delicious cheeses, Wensleydale. The history of the cheese dates back to a style of cheese originating from a monastery of French Cistercian monks who had settled in northern England in the 13th century.

While the cheese is now made throughout the UK, the Wensleydale Creamery is still the main producer of Wensleydale cheese, as well as the perfect stop on any Yorkshire Dales itinerary.

The Wensleydale Creamery consists of a cheese museum, interactive exhibits, guided tours, and a cheese shop. Visiting the creamery is a must for not just cheese enthusiasts, but also those interested in this key cultural side of the Yorkshire Dales, providing insights into Wensleydale cheese’s history, production, and the chance to sample and purchase a variety of delicious cheeses.

Opening hours of The Wensleydale Creamery are daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM with closure on specific days, so make sure to check the hours in advance before visiting. Ticket costs depend on which exhibits and parts of the creamery you wish to visit.

After spending time learning about Wensleydale Cheese at the Wensleydale Creamery, head to the local village of Hawes to experience traditional Yorkshire charm.

Hawes is a small market town located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and traditional stone-built buildings and homes.

Hawes offers a delightful variety of experiences and things to do; from inviting tea rooms, to cozy cafes, and charming traditional pubs, perfect for indulging in a satisfying meal or savoring a cup of tea amidst the rolling green surroundings.

Furthermore, the town boasts a variety of shops that showcase local crafts, souvenirs, and products, providing an ideal opportunity to find unique Yorkshire gifts and treasures. You can also visit the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes if you want a bit of historic context to your visit.

For an incredible pub meal to round out your day, I highly suggest heading to The White Hart Inn, located on the village’s main street.

The atmosphere is everything that you’d want in a pub in the Yorkshire Dales; cosy, inviting, charming, and connected to the feeling of the countryside. From fish and chips to a hearty steak pie, the recipes are homemade, homecooked, and absolutely delicious.

Day 3 – Aysgarth & Castle Bolton

Start your 3rd and final day in the Yorkshire Dales in the quaint countryside hamlet village of Aysgarth, tucked within the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Nestled amidst the idyllic landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales, Aysgarth is a haven of natural beauty and rural Yorkshire charm.

The pinnacle of visiting Aysgarth is undoubtedly the majestic Aysgarth Falls, a spectacular series of waterfalls located within the village of Aysgarth. Prepare to be amazed as you witness the cascading waters tumbling down the limestone steps, creating a stunning appearance.

Aysgarth Falls has three sections: Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls. The Upper Falls are often considered the most popular. With their dramatic display of water tumbling over rocky ledges, but all three falls are worth visiting for their own unique characteristics.

The falls are open 24/7 with free admission, and to learn more about the area, make sure to visit the visitors center (note you have to pay for the car park) for interesting insights into Aysgarth Falls, its geology, and preservation. The area itself also has a wide number of trails worth visiting, with peaceful and serene surroundings.

After spending time at the falls, make sure to spend time in the village of Aysgarth itself. The village feels like it’s stuck in time, from the small stone bridges passing over the River Ure, to the classic pubs and tea rooms waiting to make your acquaintance.

The village also has various shops, from classic souvenir and craft shops to more modern art galleries featuring local artists.

Castle Bolton

After discovering the charming village of Aysgarth and its wondrous waterfalls, head about a 10 minute drive away into the countryside to historic Bolton Castle.

Castle Bolton is a medieval fortress nestled in the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales National Park that holds historical and cultural significance as a medieval fortress, giving a deeper insight into the county’s heritage and offering insights into the lives of nobles throughout history.

With a strong association with Mary Queen of Scots and other historic figures, the castle is an off-the-beaten-path spot yet with rich history and outstanding surroundings.

While visiting the castle, you’ll wander through well-preserved chambers and various rooms throughout the castle, explore its enchanting gardens, and immerse yourself in the historic atmosphere in the middle of the green hills of the Yorkshire Dales.

Where to Stay in the Yorkshire Dales

Herriots Hotel – Located in the town of Skipton at the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, this hotel is an excellent place to base yourself when exploring this natural area. They have a number of lovely rooms available along with plenty of great amenities for guests to enjoy.

The Gamekeeper’s Inn – This quaint inn situated in Skipton makes for the perfect base when exploring the Yorkshire Dales. They have an array of cosy rooms to choose from along with amenities such as a swimming pool and a spa/wellness centre.

Howgills Apartments – If you’re looking for a self-catering option, these apartments are a great choice. They have a number of flats on offer located in the town of Sedbergh within easy reach of both the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District.

YHA Malham – This hostel in Skipton is a great choice for those looking for budget accommodation during their trip to the Yorkshire Dales. They have both dorms and private rooms available along with good self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Yorkshire Dales hotels!

As one of the most stunning countryside getaways, yet one of the least visited spots in England by international visitors, the Yorkshire Dales is a truly special spot in Northern England offering the ideal blend of serenity, history, and enjoyment of life.

Are you planning to visit the Yorkshire Dales? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Great article with good information about visiting the Yorkshire Dales. Thank you!

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• BOOK DIRECT and enjoy FREE ENTRY to the World of James Herriot Museum
• Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off - just 6 people per group!

The Yorkshire Dales of All Creatures Great & Small

Spend the day discovering "James Herriot country" on this exclusive, intimate and unforgettable small-group tour.

Tour Highlights

• Clock Duration: 8.5 hours

Highlights of the tour include:

• World of James Herriot Museum (ticket included)
• Ripon Cathedral
• Grassington – “Darrowby” in All Creatures Great & Small
• Opportunity to have lunch at the “Drover’s Arms” (not included)
• The Alderson’s Farm – Yockenthwaite
• Wensleydale Creamery
• Aysgarth Falls
• Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off (included)

York Day Trip to Yorkshire Dales

This fantastic  day trip from York has a real ‘private tour’ feel as you are picked up from your hotel in York. With a maximum of 6 people per group, you’ll enjoy a uniquely personal experience.  The size of the vehicle chosen for this tour allows us to take you right into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales on the tiny rural lanes and hidden backroads. We take you where the 16-seater minibuses and bigger coaches simply can’t go. You’ll spend the day in the company of a Yorkshire guide, allowing you to ask questions along the way and to make extra photo stops on demand at truly unforgettable locations in the incredible Yorkshire Dales.

Full itinerary:

On this exclusive small-group tour from York, you explore some of Yorkshire’s most iconic scenery as you travel on the rural lanes in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. You’ll see sights that have been featured in ‘All Creatures Great & Small’, including Darrowby, and you’ll have chance to enjoy lunch (payable locally) at “The Drover’s Arms”. You’ll also spend time at the fabulous “World of James Herriot Museum” in Thirsk (entrance included).

With a maximum of six passengers per group, this tour takes you away from the main roads and busy tourist trails to discover the timeless scenery of the Yorkshire Dales. Your driver-guide, a native Yorkshireman with a real connection to the region, takes you on the rural roads and country lanes that can’t be accessed by big tour groups.

Your day begins with collection from your accommodation in York city centre, before heading out of York and into the North Yorkshire countryside. The first stop of the itinerary is in the town of Thirsk, where you’ll visit the World of James Herriot Museum (entrance ticket included). Located in the very building where James Herriot lived and worked, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of veterinary science in James Herriot’s time, as well as a wonderful look at the creation of the two different adaptations of ‘ All Creatures Great & Small ‘.

After approximately 75-90 minutes in Thirsk, we travel towards the scenery of the amazing Yorkshire Dales National Park. Our route takes us through the small city of Ripon, where we’ll enjoy a brief stop at Ripon Cathedral. We continue the journey into Nidderdale, a region designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, passing through the town of Pateley Bridge before we reach Wharfedale and the charming town of Grassington. The small market town of Grassington is famous as the filming location for “Darrowby” in the latest series of ‘ All Creatures Great & Small’ . Walking through the front door of the “Drover’s Arms” (the Devonshire Arms in real life), you’ll have chance to enjoy lunch (pre-ordered earlier in the day to save time). After lunch, you’ll have time in Grassington to wander through the town and take photos in front of “Skeldale House”, before our tour continues into the picturesque scenery of Wharfedale.

There are countless incredible photo opportunities on this drive as your guide shows off some of England’s finest countryside, rolling hills, babbling streams and valley views. We’ll stop at the beautiful 12th century Church of St Michael & All Angels in Hubberholme (where James & Helen are married) and pause for photos overlooking Yockenthwaite (the Alderson’s farm), before climbing into the mountainous scenery between Wharfedale and Wensleydale.

We drop into Wensleydale make a brief stop at the Wensleydale Creamery, where you’ll have chance to sample some of the famous local cheese, before making a final brief stop at Aysgarth Falls, where you’ll have chance to see the thundering stepped limestone waterfall.

Finally, we head out of the Yorkshire Dales and make our way back to York, concluding a fantastic day out in Yorkshire with drop off at your accommodation in the city.

• Chevron down How it works:

The tour begins with collection from your accommodation in York. Pick-ups usually start at 8:40am-8:45am. Leaving York, it is not long before we are surrounded by the countryside and farmland of Yorkshire as we head north towards Thirsk.

We reach the market town of Thirsk for an included visit to the wonderful “World of James Herriot Museum”. The museum is located in the very building where the creator of James Herriot, real life vet Alf White, lived and worked.

After approximately 90 minutes to explore the museum, we jump back on board the touring vehicle and head out towards the Yorkshire Dales.

Our route to the Dales takes us through the small city of Ripon, where we pause for 15 minutes to see Ripon cathedral and its original church crypt (built in AD 672).

The next step of the journey takes us through Nidderdale (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and then on and into the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Our first stop is Grassington, the town featured as “Darrowby” in the latest series of All Creatures Great & Small”.

Our time in Grassington begins with an included lunch at the Devonshire Arms – the pub that, from the outside at least, featured as ‘The Drover’s Arms’ in All Creatures Great & Small. After lunch and tea or coffee, you’ll have a few minutes to explore Grassington and see the building used as ‘Skeldale House’.

We then head out across the scenery of Wharfedale and Wensleydale as we begin our driving tour of the Yorkshire Dales. We make regular photos stops along the way as we explore the landscape made famous by James Herriot in All Creatures Great & Small. We’ll stop at the Church of St Michael & All Angels in Hubberholme and again overlooking Yockenthwaite (familiar as the Alderson’s Farm). We make a brief stop at the Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes, where you’ll have chance to sample Yorkshire’s famous cheese, and make a final stop at Aysgarth Falls where you’ll have chance to photograph the dramatic stepped waterfall.

We then return to York, arriving back in the city centre at approximately  5:30pm . The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel in the city.

• Chevron down What’s included:
• Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off in York
• Entry ticket for the World of James Herriot Museum
• Driving tour of the Yorkshire Dales with limitless photo opportunities and stops at sights including Hubberholme, Yockenthwaite, the Wensleydale Creamery and  Aysgarth Falls
• The services of a local guide throughout the day
• Chevron down Not included:
• Meals & Drinks

Got a question?

View our Frequently Asked Questions.

Related Tours

• Most Popular!
• Hotel Pick Up & Drop Off - 7 People Per Group - Steam Train Ticket Included
• Clock 8.5 hours
• Tags Day Trip

Steam Trains, Whitby & the Moors

Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off is INCLUDED on this tour of the Yorkshire countryside which includes an unforgettable steam train ride, the Yorkshire coast at Whitby and the amazing North York Moors. Steam train tickets are included and you’ll enjoy a truly small-group experience – with ONLY 7 PEOPLE PER GROUP .

Yorkshire Dales National Park

• The Yorkshire Dales by train
• Tours and excursions
• National Park Visitor Centres
• Tips for motorcyclists
• Where to stay
• Essential information

Plan your visit

Welcome to the Yorkshire Dales, an outstanding place to explore!

The Yorkshire Dales has many moods; it can be wild and windswept or quietly tranquil with valleys full of hay meadows, drystone walls and barns. There’s always something to do in the Dales. Whether you’re coming for the day or staying longer. We’ve put this information together to help you get started in planning your visit. We hope you enjoy your time here in the Yorkshire Dales.

You can download a detailed map showing all of the Yorkshire Dales National Park here.

Public Transport

Sustainable tourism will only become a reality if we all do our part, and we’re encouraging everyone to travel more sustainably, so why not leave the car behind and explore the Yorkshire Dales by train , bus, bike or foot.

Taking public transport also means you can relax and enjoy the scenery – and see over the top of drystone walls! Many of our recommended walks begin and end at public transport stops, including connections to the Settle-Carlisle railway . Find out more about rail travel into the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Visit our travel information pages here .

The £2 bus fare cap

You should also consider arriving by bus, especially right now. The £2 single fare cap is in place until 31 December 2024, and covers all scheduled bus services in the Yorkshire Dales area every day of the week.

For example, the Craven Connection bus 580  runs every hour all day Monday to Saturdays between Skipton and Settle, with alternate buses continuing on to Clapham, Ingleton and Kirkby Lonsdale, offering the chance to enjoy walks and sightseeing in the Ingleborough area. 

Also, the Wensleydale Flyer service 856 has three return journeys every Sunday linking Northallerton, Bedale, Leyburn, Aysgarth and Hawes, providing a relaxing car free and parking visit to Hawes, home of the Wensleydale Creamery and Dales Countryside Museum.

Both services are operated by DalesBus .

Read more about these services and other services where the £2 single fare cap is applicable here .

You can find out more about public transport options here .

Our National Park Authority car parks are located here.

• Aysgarth Falls  –  ///acquaint.fairly.qualify
• Buckden  –  ///inhabited.gullible.trend      
• Clapham  –  ///outnumber.swim.bravest         
• Grassington  –  ///extend.paving.protected     
• Hawes (Dales Countryside Museum)  –  ///bespoke.handrail.gripes
• Horton-in-Ribblesdale  –  ///chestnuts.jugs.grounded
• Kettlewell  –  ///control.handed.encodes
• Linton Falls  –  ///stooping.communal.wide   
• Malham  –  ///strumming.offers.selects           
• Stainforth  –  ///tribes.hardly.pounces

As a rule, our Malham, Horton-in-Ribblesdale and Aysgarth Falls carparks tend to be the busiest. Have a back up plan in case you get there and it’s too busy and you can’t park. Our other car parks are less busy.

EV charging points

All of our car parks now have electric car charge points. Each site has a pod point dual, 7kw rapid charger. We have app-enabled chargers – https://pod-point.com/guides/driver/how-to-access-public-ev-charging . Please note that if using the charge points you must purchase an appropriate parking ticket to cover the time whilst charging. You can find out everything you need to know about EV charging points here.

There are other carparks run by local authorities, see more about other amenities here.

Things to do

We have beautiful valleys, towns and villages. Find attractions, events, places to eat and drink and where to stay along with things to do with the kids in the great outdoors.

Walking in the Yorkshire Dales

Many people come to the Yorkshire Dales to walk. A walk in the Yorkshire Dales National Park is good for both your physical and mental wellbeing. There are walks for all abilities;

• Great walk ideas – There are around 60 short walk suggestions for people of all ages and ability on our short walks page . Each walk comes with a detailed map and some walks have an audio guide
• Walks from our car parks – Here are some short walk suggestions leaving and returning to our National Park car parks.
• Miles without stiles – If you find walking a challenge or your group includes someone who’s using a wheelchair or pushing a push chair then take a look at our ‘ Miles Without Stiles Walks ‘ here and find out more in our Access for all  area.
• Apps – Download our Yorkshire Dales Walking App which has 35 GPS-enabled walks for you to try, all curated by our Ranger team.

Walking Films

Need some inspiration? You don’t always have to come for a hike, there are many different types of walk to do in the Dales, including landscape walks, waterfall walks, mindfulness walks and even an amble with an alpaca along Semerwater in Wensleydale. Take a look.

Aysgarth Falls walk

Alpaca walk

Mindfulness walk

Three Peaks walks

Walking with dogs

Water Safety

Waterfalls, rivers and lakes in the Yorkshire Dales National Park are popular places for people to picnic beside, to paddle in and to swim. They’re popular venues for a variety of watersports including kayaking, canoeing, sailing and windsurfing.

If you’re planning to spend time by water or in the water it’s important to understand how quickly water conditions can change, how cold our water can be and the dangers of unseen hazards and fast flowing currents.

Read the guidance on our water safety and swimming page here.

Accessibility

Everyone has the right to access to the countryside in the Yorkshire National Park and improving access on appropriate public rights of way and permissive routes in the National Park is one of the objectives agreed by the Authority and a wide range of local partner organisations in the  National Park Management Plan 2019-24.

Choose from our  Miles without Stiles  downloadable routes perfect for wheelchairs, pushchairs and a post-pub-lunch amble. You can also buy route cards at  National Park Visitor Centres . To see where the routes can be found in the National Park have a look at the interactive map and check out our access for all page here .

The Countryside Code

The National Park is a place where farmers and landowners work and people live; if you can follow these tips below you’ll stay safe during your visit and the communities of the Dales will stay safe. The Countryside Code has also been translated into various languages:

Spring time is a time of renewal and a magical season to visit the Yorkshire Dales. Fields full of lambs, bluebells in woodlands, and lush green pastures. Find out more about spring in the Dales here . And to make the most of your spring time visit, here are some tips for you keeping you, livestock and wildlife safe.

Summer is the time when birds and animals are hard at work feeding their young. Even night-hunting creatures like owls sometimes have to keep going into the daylight hours to catch enough food. The flowers in the road verges and hay meadows reach their peak and butterflies make the most of the ample supply of nectar. Find out more about summer in the Dales here . And to make the most of your summer visit, here are some tips for you keeping you, livestock and wildlife safe.

Autumn is a time for leaping salmon, spotting squirrels and incredible coloured landscapes. Even a wet and windy day can be enjoyed if you are dressed for the weather, especially if there’s the promise of a wood fire and a pint of local beer at the end of it. Find out more about autumn in the Dales here . And to make the most of your autumn visit, here are some tips for you keeping you, livestock and wildlife safe.

Winter time is an amazing time to visit the Dales, not least to experience the wonder of our dark skies. The Yorkshire Dales is home to some of the darkest skies in the country. We’re proud to have large areas of unpolluted night sky where it’s possible to see the Milky Way, planets, meteors, and even the Northern Lights. Find out more about winter in the Dales here . And to make the most of your winter visit, here are some tips for you keeping you, livestock and wildlife safe.

While you’re out and about in the countryside it’s important to respect the Countryside Code . You can download a version of the Countryside Code to take with you.

And wherever you walk or picnic, please take all your litter home with you and no BBQs. Please, leave no trace.

Finally, if you’re planning to fly a drone for recreation purposes in the Yorkshire Dales National Park you’ll need to be compliant with a number of CAA regulations and secure landowner permission. All the information you need is here about drones is here.

Why don’t you have bins in your car parks?

It’s a question we get asked a lot. So why don’t we have bins in our car parks?

It is our view that bins attract more litter. Think about it, how many times have you visited a high footfall location and seen the bins overflowing? Read more about our bin policy here .

The Three Peaks

Finally, if you’re considering doing the Three Peaks challenge, we have lots of information to help you here . The Three Peaks challenge is a popular activity, and it’s important that social distancing is maintained on the hills. Download our Three Peaks walking app which has a number of GPS-enabled walks for you to try around the Three Peaks area, including the Three Peaks walk itself.

The Ultimate Yorkshire Dales Scenic Tour

Full Day 139.00 per person

Tour Rating:

You can join this tour:.

Step just outside of the Lake District and discover some of the most outstandingly beautiful scenery anywhere in Britain on this popular Yorkshire Dales tour.

You will see absolutely breathtaking scenery, spectacular waterfalls, vast, open moors and narrow roads which wind up to incredible views stretching down the Dales for miles and miles.

You can walk the cobbled streets of a tiny village packed with tales, legends and history; stroll through a bustling traditional Dales market town and even see the romantic ruined castle where a Queen was imprisoned.Dry stone walls, the traditional Dales cow byres and whitewashed farms dot the landscape where the native breed sheep and cattle wander.

Away from the crowds and the bustle you will fall in love with this remarkable, timeless place and the friendly people you will meet. Spectacular views everywhere you look and just a short drive from the Lake District.

What is included in this tour:

• Full Day Tour
• Experienced driver for your safety on the steep, narrow and twisty Lakeland roads and a knowledgeable guide to provide expert commentary throughout the tour
• Small group of up to 7 people for a more flexible and personalised experience
• Use of personal radio communication technology to keep you in-touch with your guide when you are off the minibus (where applicable)
• Barbon - A drive over the moor and down the long, remote Barbondale valley full of spectacular scenery
• Dent - A tiny traditional Dales village full of history & charm and a drive through Dentdale for a stop to take in the amazing view
• Garsdale - Drive past the highest railway station in England as we head out across the moorland towards Garsdale Head
• Buttertubs Pass - Drive down this famous, steep, high pass stopping to see for miles down both beautiful Wensleydale and Swaledale. Stop to see the famous limestone rock formations
• Muker - Surrounded by characteristically picturesque cow byres, traditional dry-stone walls and spectacular hay meadows full of flowers in early summer and on through the gorgeous Swaledale
• Gunnerside - A mine-workers traditional village and then on, over the spectacular high moors for incredible views
• Arkengarthdale - Drive through part of the Dales that sounds like it comes from "Lord of the Rings"!
• Reeth - This is your lunch stop in this sleepy Dales village with time to explore before heading over the wide open landscape of Grinton Moor for another stop and incredible views
• Bolton Castle - We stop at Bolton Castle to learn about its history and see the amazing views across Wensleydale
• Aysgarth Falls - See the stunning waterfalls that were used in a scene from "Robin Hodd, Prince of Thieves"
• Hawes - A stop of in the village of Hawes is essential if visiting the Yorkshire Dales
• Ribblehead Viaduct - Take a look at this amazing construction carrying the railway across the moorland

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Yorkshire Dales National Park: The Complete Guide

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Things to Do

• Best Hikes & Trails

Water Sports

Scenic drives, where to camp, where to stay nearby, how to get there, accessibility, tips for your visit, yorkshire dales national park.

Yorkshire Dales National Park, located in the north of England, encompasses thousands of square miles of picturesque countryside and scenic villages. While it's not particularly mountainous, the national park is known for its sweeping moors, rolling hills and walking trails. It is home to the Three Peaks, and has a vast caves system, which can be visited by travelers.

The region is dotted with historic towns, like Ripon and Settle, and there are numerous attractions popular with tourists, including castles, museums and manor estates. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds travel to Yorkshire Dales National Park for a variety of reasons, from enjoying the walking and biking trails to immersing themselves in countryside life for a few days.

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Yorkshire Dales National Park is a vast area, comprised of moors, valleys, hills and villages. There is a lot to see and do throughout the park for visitors of all ages and interests, with an emphasis on exploring the natural beauty of the region. The Yorkshire Dales are especially popular for walking and cycling, although there are also plenty of activities for visitors less inclined to outdoor activities, from historic castles to the famed Settle to Carlisle railway.

Explore natural attractions like Malham Cove and Aysgarth Falls, or walk the trails through the Three Peaks. Ingleborough Cave, which has been open to visitors since 1837, reveals awe-inspiring cave formations, while White Scar Caves is the the longest show cave in England.

The Yorkshire Dales is home to several castles and historic homes, including Richmond Castle , Bolton Abbey Estate , Skipton Castle and Ripley Castle . There are also plenty of scenic villages to visit, from Settle to Ripon to Skipton. The Dales themselves are composed of small villages and farmsteads, with small trails connecting much of the area. Head to Swaledale, Wharfedale and Wensleydale for the classic British countryside experience. Local museums include Hawes Ropemakers , Dales Countryside Museum , and Grassington Folk Museum .

The national park is well-known for its cycling trails, with cyclists of all abilities coming to the Yorkshire Dales. The 12-mile Swale Trail is the most famous, and there are also over 600 miles of mountain biking trails or off-road areas. Horseback riding is available at various places around the Dales, and the park is also a designated Dark Sky Reserve, perfect for spotting the Big Dipper.

Best Hikes & Trails

Because the Yorkshire Dales is relatively flat, with hills rather than massive mountains, visitors tend to go on country walks rather than big hikes. There are numerous short walks, as well as some popular long-distance walks, throughout the park. The most famous ascent is the Three Peaks —Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough—which offer a more traditional hiking experience.

Although the Yorkshire Dales are not particularly mountainous, the hill walks can prove challenging, especially in cold or rainy weather. Be sure to come prepared in comfortable, waterproof clothing and solid walking boots with a strong grip. Many of the walking routes in the Dales include stretches of limestone, which gets extremely slippery, and visitors should not enter any of the cave formations without a guide. Take advantage of of the Yorkshire Dales National Park's downloadable Miles Without Stiles routes for those with wheelchairs and strollers.

• Ilkley Moor and the 12 Apostles : From West View Park, head through White Wells to the 12 Apostles, a standing circle of 12 stones. The walk takes about two hours and brings climbers to the highest point on the moor (although it is a relatively easy trek).
• The Herriot Way: Named for author James Herriot, a veterinary surgeon who lived and worked in the Dales, this circular walk is 52 miles long and takes four or five days to traverse. Opt to do part of the route, or go all in for the full circuit.
• Aysgarth Falls : Follow a two and a half-mile loop around the famed Aysgarth Falls. The trek includes scenic woodlands and a pub called the Wheatsheaf, which marks the halfway point.
• Three Peaks Challenge: Embark on a hike across the Dales' Three Peaks, a route that covers 24 miles and takes about 12 hours. Take the challenge yourself, or do it in an organized group.

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Road cycling and mountain biking are great ways to explore Yorkshire Dales National Park, which is known for its many cycling trails. The park boasts numerous routes for all ability levels, with an emphasis on off-road mountain biking. Look for various bike rental shops in the area, if you need to rent a bike and gear.

• The Swale Trail: Running 12 miles long, the Swale Trail is an easy mountain bike route running the length of Swaledale, from Reeth to Keld.  The route is targeted to visitors with older children and those with some cycling experience, and offers several stops along the way. Embark on the Viking Challenge for some extra fun along the route.
• Gargrave Short Circuit: Travel from the small town of Gargrave up into the southern Yorkshire Dales along several quiet roads via the Gargrave Short Circuit. Don't miss the well-known cyclists’ café the Dalesman in Gargrave.
• Ilkley to Bolton Abbey: One of the most popular routes is a back road that goes from Ilkley to Bolton Abbey, taking cyclists on a relatively easy ride for about six miles. Some opt to extend the route to Wharfedale or to Embsay and Skipton.
• Malham Tarn: Try your hand at mountain biking at Malham Tarn, which traverses stone tracks and quiet tarmac roads. The circular route, which is good for beginners, runs a little over four miles.

The waterfalls, rivers and lakes in the Yorkshire Dales National Park are popular for swimming, as well as kayaking, canoeing, sailing and windsurfing. Sailing can be found at Semer Water, a post-glacial lake, and at the reservoirs of Embsay and Grimwith, although Grimwith Reservoir is considered the best place to sail in the Dales. The Yorkshire Dales Sailing Club and Craven Sailing Club both offer opportunities to learn to sail or windsurf.

There are over 2,500 known caves in the Yorkshire Dales, including the longest system in Britain, The Three Counties. Caving is a popular pursuit when visiting the region, and can be safely done in several ways. There are three primary show caves, White Scar Cave, Ingleborough Cave and Stump Cross Caverns, which can be visited with ticketed entry. All are appropriate for kids of all ages. For more adventurous travelers, look for a course with a qualified guide, like Yorkshire Adventure Company , to explore the caverns and rock formations. Experienced explorers can rent caving equipment from  Inglesports .

Yorkshire Dales National Park is a vast area with lots to explore, including numerous small villages that are best seen on a scenic drive. The roads can be winding and difficult to navigate at certain points, so pick a stretch of road that connects two villages or attractions you most want to see. Some of the most popular are Wensleydale to Swaledale, which traverses Buttertubs Pass, and Stainforth Ribblesdale to Halton Gill via Goat Lane and Silverdale Road.

Most of the back country roads are usually quiet, but pay attention, as you may be sharing them with cyclists, pedestrians, and, occasionally, farm animals. Opt for a GPS addition in your rental car in case cell phone service is limited.

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There are several private campgrounds through the Yorkshire Dales, which should be booked in advance, especially during the summer. Wild camping is not permitted anywhere in the Yorkshire Dales without permission from the landowner, so be sure to plan your visit in advance.

• Kirkby Malham Camping: Located between the villages of Malham and Kirkby Malham, this pop-up campsite is available during the summer months only. It has portable toilets, a supply of water and trash cans for campers.  
• Rukin’s Park Lodge Campsite: Open from Easter through September, Rukin's Park offers campers an opportunity to pitch a tent alongside the River Swale.
• Hoggarths Campsite: For a quiet campsite, reserve a spot at Hoggarths, found in Upper Swaledale. It is open from March through October, with portable toilets available until the end of September.
• Camp Kátur Glamping: A less rustic experience is on offer at Camp Kátur Glamping, which has yurts, safari tents, pods and clear unidomes for rent.

The Yorkshire Dales are filled with charming hotels, small B&Bs and holiday cottages. Whether you prefer to stay in one of the villages or in a countryside accommodation, there are plenty of options for travelers. For unique housing options, check out  Canopy & Stars , a travel site with interesting properties for rent around the U.K., or Sykes Holiday Cottages ,

• The Traddock Hotel: This Georgian manor house has elegant rooms, its own restaurant and afternoon tea in the garden. The family-run hotel is a great place to stay while exploring the Dales.
• Yorebridge House: Located in Wensleydale, this five-star property has a historic feel but contemporary rooms. There is a restaurant and bar, as well as private outdoor hot tubs in select guest rooms.
• The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa: Reserve at room at the Devonshire Arms, located on the Bolton Abbey Estate, not far from Skipton. The hotel has a restaurant, spa, gym and an indoor pool, as well as a popular afternoon tea service.
• The Craven Arms: The Craven Arms, in Giggleswick, is a historic free house with eight rooms. Be sure to grab a table for dinner at the pub, which serves British classics.

Yorkshire Dales National Park is located in the north of England, and is accessible by car, train or bus. It's near several bigger towns and cities, including York, Harrogate, Leeds, Lancaster, Preston, Darlington and Middlesbrough. There are two National Rail train services covering the Yorkshire Dales area: the Leeds-Morecambe line and the Leeds-Settle-Carlisle line. Other nearby stations include Darlington, Northallerton, Ilkley, Skipton, Penrith and Oxenholme, most of which connect to London.

Buses are also available to most of the nearby cities and towns, and bus services within the National Park run throughout the year. Look for routes on National Express  or  Megabus  when planning a trip to the Yorkshire Dales area. For information on local buses, visit the Dales Bus  website.

The nearest airports are Leeds Bradford International Airport, Manchester Airport, Durham Tees Valley Airport and Newcastle International Airport, and travelers can rent cars at all of the airports to then drive to the Dales. The national park is bordered by several major roads, including the M6 on the west, the A66 on the north, the A1 on the east and the A65 and A59 on the south.

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Yorkshire Dales National Park operates under the premise that everyone has the right to access the countryside. Their  Miles Without Stiles  downloadable routes offer options for wheelchair users, and the national park regularly hosts walks and talks for disabled visitors. The Dales Experience program works with people who often don’t visit the Yorkshire Dales, including people who have a disability, mental or physical health condition. The parking lots also feature disabled toilets, which are open 24 hours a day.

• Visit one of several  visitors centers  in Yorkshire Dales National Park before heading out on a walk or bike ride. The experts in the centers will help you plan your trip, or just offer some ideas on what to see. The centers also sell local souvenirs.
• There are numerous parking lots available to visitors in the Yorkshire Dales. All the parking lots have 24-hour public toilets. Some toilets require a charge of 20p, so it can be helpful to have coins at the ready.
• Dogs are welcome in Yorkshire Dales National Park, but it's important to follow some guidelines. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash on public rights of way and in fields where there is livestock, being particularly mindful of sheep.
• Take advantage of the Mountain Weather Information Service , which details the current ground conditions, visibility, wind speed, wind direction, and temperature in the park. 

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17 Amazing Yorkshire Day Trips (+ Map & Insider Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 27, 2023

Yorkshire county in northern England is a perfect destination that has something to offer for everyone. Beautiful towns, charming villages, and two national parks offer plenty of sightseeing options. There is something to see and do to suit all ages, interests, and abilities.

If you are looking for ideas on what to see and do in Yorkshire , this article will give you plenty of inspiration on where to go and what to do. In this selection, we feature 17 amazing Yorkshire day trip ideas – the very best things to do in Yorkshire. From the most famous tourist destinations to local’s favorites, quirky attractions, and hidden gems of Yorkshire.

Good to know: This article features insider tips and recommendations by Yorkshire-native Sinead from York with Kids . She lives in York and knows the region really well. For our blog, she selected the very best day trips and places to see in Yorkshire and also included practical tips and suggestions to help you plan your visit.

We also included a map featuring all the best places to visit in Yorkshire mentioned in this article. At the bottom of this post, you can also find tips for getting around Yorkshire and the best base for your day trips and excursions in this beautiful part of England. Find out!

Yorkshire is very diverse and there is so much to see and do! The cosmopolitan cities of York, Leeds, Sheffield, and Hull offer world-class museums and lively city centers. You’ll find countless historical attractions in Yorkshire’s market towns and villages.

The hills and valleys of the Yorkshire Dales NP have stunning landscapes of woodlands and waterfalls. Whereas the contrasting, windswept Moors provide fantastic hiking opportunities…

If you don’t have a car and are looking for the best day tours in Yorkshire, here’s an overview of the very best organized day trips that you can do from York:

• The Yorkshire Dales Tour from York
• Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip
• North York Moors & Whitby from York

Further below, you can find the very best day trip destinations in Yorkshire. And here is a map indicating all the main locations mentioned in this article.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Good to know: If you are looking for Yorkshire Dales National Park on this list, you should know that it’s a huge National Park with towns, villages, endless hiking possibilities, etc. So it’s not just one place to go visit. Several places mentioned in this article are inside Yorkshire Dales NP. If you want to see the very best of this area in a nutshell, then you should consider visiting with an organized day tour that covers several locations in one day .

These are the best things to do in Yorkshire as a day trip:

No trip to Yorkshire would be complete without visiting York , one of the nicest cities in the UK . It’s a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and a range of attractions dating from the Roman, Viking, Georgian, and Victorian eras. The city center has parks and pedestrianized streets making York a very pleasant city trip destination; it’s also easy to visit with kids. 

There are so many unmissable  things to do in York  that you will want to spend more than one day in the city!

Don’t miss the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe, York Minster . If you are up for it, climb the 275 steps of the central tower for a fabulous view of the city. Every Saturday, York Minster runs engaging tours of the cathedral.

Walk the city’s medieval stone walls . At two miles long, they are the longest city walls in England. Make sure to check out the quirky old street The Shambles , voted ‘Best Street in Britain’. It’s said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. 

If you want to learn about the history of York, visit the Jorvik Viking Centre , the Yorkshire Museum , or the excellent York Castle Museum . 

Walk the windy ramparts of Clifford’s Tower or take a break from the city center with a relaxing cruise down the River Ouse.  

TIP:  Anyone visiting  York with kids , should take the tasty tour at York Chocolate Story . It ends with the opportunity to make your own chocolate lollipop. 

How to visit:   Leave your car at one of the city’s Park & Ride locations to avoid city center driving and parking fees. Alternatively, travel to York by train. York’s central rail station is a short, ten-minute walk to the city center. If you want to see all the highlights in a short time, consider joining this popular walking tour with a local guide . If you want to ‘see it all’ in a day, hop-on hop-off bus might be a good option for getting around York.

2. Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey or Bolton Priory is part of a private estate owned by the Duke of Devonshire and an amazing place to visit as a day trip from York. It’s located on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is often included in Yorkshire Dales day tours . This is not the same place as Bolton Castle, mentioned under the Wensleydale day trip above.

There is so much to see and explore at this historic site! The main highlight is the ruins of the Augustinian abbey and church which was founded here in the 12th century. 

The rest of the extensive estate lies across a narrow river accessed by a wooden bridge or over Bolton Abbey’s iconic 6o stepping stones. Kids and adults alike love hopping from stone to stone in order to cross the river. There are also a number of scenic walking trails along the riverbank or through the shaded Strid Wood. Don’t miss Strid Wood’s famous ‘money tree.’

Bolton Abbey is free to visit; you only pay for car parking. You can find more practical information on their website .

TIP: Pack a towel if visiting Bolton Abbey in summer as you won’t be able to resist paddling in the river on a hot Yorkshire day! You can easily spend 4-5 hours exploring the estate. Count even more time if you enjoy a paddle and a picnic.

How to visit:   Bolton Abbey is about 1-hour drive from York and is best visited by car. You can also catch a steam train from nearby Embsay. The train ride takes 20 minutes to reach tiny Bolton Abbey station from where it is a 1,5-mile walk to Bolton Abbey estate. Alternatively, you can also visit with this organized tour from York .

3. Wensleydale

Wensleydale is a valley in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. A day trip here encompasses the best that the Dales has to offer – waterfalls, history, food, and farming. This is the place that most Yorkshire Dales National Park tours visit.

First stop is Bolton Castle . This privately-owned castle is the best-preserved medieval castle in England and offers something for visitors of all ages.

From February to November, visitors can tour rooms in the castle and observe an archery display in the impressive castle courtyard. In the manicured grounds of the castle, you’ll find a maze and delightful herb garden. There is a Bird of Prey and Falconry display daily and visitors can brave the wild boar feeding session.

Two miles away from Bolton Castle is Aysgarth Falls . This attraction is free to enter, but there is a small fee for parking. The falls are actually three separate waterfalls – Upper Force, Middle Force, and Lower Force. These waterfalls tumble over three limestone steps over a scenic, one mile stretch of the River Ure. The falls can be viewed from a woodland path that runs alongside the river. 

Aysgarth Falls is a beautiful location to visit at any time of year. The changing colors of spring and autumn provide perfect photo opportunities. The waterfalls are particularly spectacular after heavy rainfall. 

A 12-minute drive away (unless you get stuck behind a tractor!) is the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes . This small museum is housed in a lovely Victorian rail station and depicts the changes in life and farming for people living in the Yorkshire Dales. There is a rolling program of activities and exhibitions with the opportunity to try out traditional crafts and farming skills. 

Whilst in Hawes, pop into the Wensleydale creamery to see the famous Yorkshire cheese being made. 

Wensleydale is the favorite cheese of the character Wallace, from Wallace and Gromit movies. You will not be able to leave the creamery without making a purchase. 

TIP: At Aysgarth Falls, visitors can access the water’s edge at Upper Force and at Lower Force. Lower Force is accessed by an uneven path descending from the main path. Both riverbanks are unfenced and the rocks can be slippery when wet. Aysgarth Falls is the best location during this day trip for a picnic. 

How to visit : The start of your day trip, Bolton Castle, is a one-hour drive from York. You should count the whole day for this area.

Whitby is a popular seaside resort on the North Yorkshire coast but one that retains a traditional feel. it’s a working harbor town that is thankfully not overrun with arcades or funfairs. 

You can stroll Whitby’s long, clean, sandy beach, wander the town’s cobbled lanes, or visit the museum dedicated to Whitby’s famous son, the explorer Captain James Cook.  

Strong legs can climb Whitby’s famous 199 stone steps which lead to an iconic clifftop Yorkshire landmark, Whitby Abbey . The 13th century gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey are well worth a visit. You also get a fantastic view of Whitby and the North Yorkshire coastline. 

Whitby is an atmospheric, windswept location. This is why Bram Stoker was inspired to cast Whitby as Dracula’s landing place in his famous vampire novel.

TIP: People drive from all over Yorkshire just to buy fish and chips in Whitby! Don’t leave the town until you have tried a Whitby chippy dinner.

How to visit: Whitby can be reached by public bus or by car from York or Leeds. The regular ‘Coastliner’ service crosses the Yorkshire Moors to reach Whitby and the route was recently voted ‘Britain’s Most Scenic Bus Route’. Whitby is also part of organized day tours that include several other great attractions in this area .

5. Robin Hood’s Bay

Robins Hood’s Bay is an old fishing village whose steep, cobbled lanes are too narrow for cars to access. You can explore the winding lanes lined with tiny, Victorian-era cottages, or visit the free Old Coastguard Station on the seafront. This is a good place to learn about the geology of the area and its seafaring history. 

The village also has a long, sandy beach offering plenty of space to play, relax or explore the rock pools. Robin Hoods Bay is part of Yorkshire’s Jurassic coastline. Fossils such as ammonites, belemnites, and Devils Toenail are regularly found on the beach.

TIP: Extend your trip with a hike to visit the seal colony at nearby Ravenscar. 

Insider tip: Robin Hood’s Bay can be visited on foot from Whitby by hiking along the North Yorkshire Coastal Path, part of the long-distance Cleveland Way National Trail. It’s a scenic, 7-mile walk (one way) with dramatic views of the coastline, sheltered coves, secluded bays, and Whitby’s isolated lighthouse. The challenging, undulating walk is not technically difficult but is high up and unfenced! You can return along the same path or catch a public bus from Robin Hoods Bay back to Whitby.

How to visit: Visitors to Robin Hoods Bay must park in one of the fee-paying car parks on the top of the hill outside the village. It is a steep descent down into the village and your legs will feel the strain on the way back up! Robin Hood’s Bay can also be visited with a tour from York .

6. Ingleton

Ingleton is a charming Dales town lying on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales NP. It is well worth spending a long day trip here as there are several excellent attractions within this area. 

One of the most popular attractions in Ingleton is the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail . This 4,5-mile hike over privately owned land offers scenic views of 6 pretty waterfalls. This is a beautiful hiking trail offering a mix of woodland, waterside paths, and wooden bridges. There is a fee to access the trail, but it’s well worth it! Depending on your walking speed, the trail will take between 2 – 3 hours.

A trip to nearby White Scar Cave – the longest showcave in England – will take around 2 hours. Kids will love donning a hard hat to descend the 97 steps into the depths of the cave. Once underground, metal walkways and earthen paths lead you around the cave. You can see an underground waterfall and formations such as the spookily named ‘The Witches Fingers’. 

Most of White Scar Cave is head height, but there are a couple of sections where you have to bend a bit. There is also one very narrow section that will require a squeeze! 

Alternatively, bring your hiking boots and attempt to hike to the top of Yorkshire’s second-highest peak, Ingleborough , at 723 meters high. There are several routes of differing lengths to reach the top of Ingleborough. The most interesting route starts in the village of Clapham. You will pass several cave entrances along the way, including Gaping Gill which contains the largest cave cavern in England. 

When you reach the plateau summit of Ingleborough, you will be rewarded with fantastic views across the Dale. On a clear day, you can see the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct . 

You can descend via the same route or on a circular route on which you will cross over ethereal limestone outcrops similar to those at the top of Malham Cove. Ingleborough is not a technically challenging hike though there are some steep climbs in places. 

TIP: Expect the hike to the top of Ingleborough to take around 4-5 hours round trip. There are no facilities once you leave Clapham, so bring plenty of snacks and water. The weather in the Yorkshire Dales can change quickly so always be prepared for any weather. 

How to visit : From the city of York, Ingleton is a 2-hour drive. There are several day-tour possibilities as well.

7. North Yorkshire Moors Railway

The North York Moors Railway is an old-fashioned steam train running from Pickering, across the Yorkshire Moors, to the pretty village of Goathland. This is a very nice day trip in Yorkshire, popular with locals and tourists alike.

The ‘hop on hop off’ tickets are valid the whole day, so this is a great way to explore the villages and sights of the North Yorkshire Moors. For example, take a break at lovely Levisham and hike over Levisham Moor. Keep an eye for evidence of Bronze Age habitation and burial sites along the way. 

Your final destination is Goathland, featured in the hit tv series’ Heartbeat’. It will be more recognizable to children as the setting for Hogsmeade Rail Station in the Harry Potter movies. 

A direct, non-stop trip from Pickering to Goathland takes approximately 45 minutes. Stopping off at the different stations will require a full day, so arrive early to catch one of the first trains departing Pickering.

TIP: It is also possible to travel to Whitby using the North York Moors Railway. The line operates from April to October with festive trips available on December weekends.

How to visit : Catch the train from Pickering station, a 30-minute drive from York. The railway ticket is also included in the multi-day York explorer pass . There is also a tour that covers Whitby, Moors, and Yorkshire Railway as a day trip from York.

8. Malham Cove

Malham Cove is an unmissable location in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The imposing stone cove is a natural amphitheater. It’s 230 feet high and was once home to a plunging waterfall higher than Niagara Falls. 

At the base of Malham Cove, a set of uneven stone steps wind to the top of the cove and a fantastic view over the Yorkshire Dales. The edge of the cove is unfenced and the limestone ‘pavement’ at the top is riddled with holes and crevices, so take care where you walk! 

The pavement top of Malham Cove is a must-visit for Harry Potter fans! This is the site where Hermione and Harry camped in the Deathly Hallows movie . 

There are a number of excellent hiking opportunities in this area. One of the best hikes is a long, full day circular hike that encompasses all of the major sights in this area. Starting from Malham Village, a signposted trail leads through woodland to pretty Janet’s Foss Waterfall . From here, it is a further 0,5 mile to dramatic Gordale Scar , a huge gorge with towering rock faces. 

There are a couple of route options to reach the top of the gorge where the path eventually arrives at Malham Tarn , one of only two natural lakes in the Yorkshire Dales. From Malham Tarn, it is a short walk to the top of Malham Cove to where you can descend back to your starting point in Malham village. 

The hike is not technically difficult but is a full day 13-kilometer hike. It will take around 5 hours with stops. There are no facilities on the hiking trails.

TIP: There are two family-friendly pubs and an excellent tea room in Malham Village.

How to visit : You’ll need a car to get here. Park in the permitted parking areas in Malham Village. This is a free to access rural area, but please be respectful to local residents and only park in approved car parks. There are also some guided day tours that visit this area from York, Liverpool, or Manchester.

9. National Railway Museum in York

The National Railway Museum is one of the best  free things to do in York. You will need a full day to see everything at the museum, so this is a great day trip in itself! But since it’s free, you can always take a look even if you don’t have that much time.

The museum is packed with gleaming train engines and carriages of every shape and color. See inside the luxurious Royal Train or rest weary feet in a Shinkansen carriage, the only Bullet Train carriage displayed outside Japan. 

Marvel at the size of a Eurostar nose cone under a cross-section of the Channel Tunnel and view historic trains such as the fastest steam train in the world, the Mallard. 

Families will love the entertaining and educational science shows that run daily. Kids will particularly enjoy seeing Barbie shot out of a cannon!

View the talented restorers at work from an elevated walkway above the museum workshop or wave at trains entering and departing York rail station from the Museum’s popular outdoor balcony. 

TIP: There is an excellent restaurant and cafe on site, but visitors are permitted to bring their own picnic. 

How to visit : The Museum is a 10-minute walk from the center of York or you can catch the museum’s ‘road train’ from outside York Minster. It is located just behind York railway station making it an ideal attraction to visit if arriving in  York by train . There is also a car park on-site (paid). For more practical information, please check the official website of the museum .

10. Castle Howard and Yorkshire Arboretum

Castle Howard is an impressive, privately owned country home located in the rolling Howardian Hills, just outside the city of York.

The historic house is beautifully restored and you can tour the elaborately furnished rooms. The highlights include the decorated dome of the main hall and the ornate chapel. The extensive grounds at Castle Howard provide scenic walks with lovely countryside views. 

In addition, there is a recently renovated outdoor adventure playground in an idyllic woodland/ lakeside setting. Visitors to Castle Howard will recognize it as the setting for the TV series ‘Brideshead Revisited.’

Castle Howard will take most of your day but if you have any time to spare, visit the Yorkshire Arboretum which is directly opposite the entrance drive to Castle Howard. The arboretum covers a huge 120-acre site and contains 6,000 trees from around the world. You can freely wander the tree collection or follow self-guided trails between 1 -2 hours long. 

TIP: Castle Howard is a great place to visit at any time of year but Yorkshire residents like to come here at Christmas time. For many, it has become a family tradition. Every Christmas, the rooms of the house are colorfully and artistically decorated to a new theme. 

How to visit : Castle Howard is only accessible by car. It is a short 20-minute drive from York city center. You can find more information and book your tickets here . Admission is also included in the multi-day York explorer pass .

11. Yorkshire Sculpture Park

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an outdoor art gallery in a stunning landscape in Bretton, just south of Leeds and less than an hour from York. It’s a wonderful day trip in Yorkshire, especially for those who are looking to get a bit off the beaten path. It’s also a great value for money as you only pay for parking. 

The 500-acre park is packed with sculptures ranging from unusual, abstract pieces to more traditional metal or wood carvings. Most of the sculptures are engaging, large works of art. Some pieces are over 10 meters tall. Even if you spend here the whole day, you are unlikely to cover all the sculptures within this beautiful park. There is so much to see!

Families can get creative at one of the family-friendly activities on offer in the indoor galleries. 

TIP: Pack waterproofs as the park is completely open to the elements. But don’t let bad weather put you off visiting; the sculpture park can be an atmospheric location on a rainy day. 

How to visit : The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is easiest to reach by car; it’s a 45minute drive from York via the major M1 motorway. Getting here by public transport is also possible. For more practical info, please check their website .

12. Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden is a beautiful historic property in Ripon, North Yorkshire. It is owned by England’s National Trust and one entry ticket covers both sections of the estate. 

Fountains Abbey contains the largest monastic ruins in England. The extensive 12th-century Benedictine ruins are full of hidden alcoves and secret staircases. The open, angular ruins create fantastic photo opportunities. 

Discover the history of the abbey at the Porters Lodge exhibition or have a go at traditional crafts such as weaving at Swanley Grange near the entrance to the abbey ruins. Don’t miss the Grange’s excellent, medieval-inspired vegetable garden. 

Fountains Abbey is linked by a grass walkway to Studley Royal Water Garden . These stunning gardens were landscaped in the 18th century and contain summerhouses, ornamental lakes, moon ponds, and countless sculptures. There are also several hidden folly’s for children to find and extensive walking trails around the deer park and Studley’s ancient woodland. 

Studley Royal Water Garden is a beautiful, tranquil location. It is not your average garden attraction. This is why it was granted World Heritage status in 1986. Well-worth visiting!

TIP:  Comfortable walking shoes are essential – you can spend all day walking here! If you are visiting with children, don’t miss Fountains Abbey’s large adventure playground. This is one of the best outdoor playgrounds in Yorkshire.

How to visit : The estate is a 45-minute drive from York. You can also visit with an organized small-group day tour from York .

13. Harrogate, Knaresborough, and Harlow Carr

Harrogate town in North Yorkshire was famous in the Victorian era as a wellbeing destination and rejuvenating spa town. The town retains many grand Victorian buildings. 

You can learn about the history of Harrogate at the town’s Royal Pump Room Museum and join one of their daily tours to see the wells. Be warned – the sulfur wells are reputed to be the strongest in Europe! Allow 1 – 2 hours for your visit. 

After the museum, indulge in a traditional Turkish bath in the beautifully restored, 19th-century Turkish Baths . Rejuvenated, take a stroll around pretty Valley Gardens , a landscaped park in the center of Harrogate. From the center of Harrogate, it is a 40-minute signposted walk or a short 10-minute drive to Harlow Carr. 

The nearby Knaresborough Castle and Knaresborough town is also well worth a visit.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr is a beautiful garden that is open to the public year-round. Every season offers a different experience for visitors. Within the 58-acre garden, there is a woodland and wildflower area as well as more traditional areas such as a kitchen garden, alpine garden, and colorful borders.

Harlow Carr offers activities centered around the plants and animals found within the gardens. There is also a huge woodland treehouse on site. To fully explore Harlow Carr, allow 2 – 3 hours for your visit. Many visitors stay here all day. 

TIP: After a full day exploring, treat yourself to an afternoon tea at the iconic Bettys Café Tea Rooms . This 100-year-old tea room can be found in the Harrogate town center. The tea room is famous for its art deco appearance and luxurious, elegant style. Make sure to try one of Betty’s signature cakes, the delicious Fat Rascal!

How to visit:  Harrogate can be accessed by train from York or Leeds in just 20 minutes. Avoid driving into the town center if you can as parking is limited. 

14. Sutton Bank NP, Kilburn White Horse & Rievaulx Abbey

Sutton Bank is a steep hill in North Yorkshire whose escarpment and plateau were formed as a result of the movement of ice age glaciers. This area forms the western edge of the North York Moors National Park . 

Visitors to the Sutton Bank National Park Centre will be rewarded with sweeping views of the Vale of York. You can get hiking maps at the visitors’ center, but most people come to Sutton Bank for its thrilling cycling trails and for the White Horse. Sutton Bank offers cycle trails to suit all ages and abilities and you can hire bikes and spend half a day here.

Don’t miss the Kilburn White Horse . The White Horse ‘sculpture’ is an iconic Yorkshire landmark that can be seen for miles around. Yorkshire people assess the weather based on whether they can see the white horse or not! 

The horse was constructed in 1857 to compete with giant chalk sculptures in the south of England. Unlike its competitors, the Kilburn White Horse was not cut into the chalk, but limestone. This means the horse requires regular ‘whitening’ with chalk chippings to stay white. This is no easy task as the horse measures 314 ft long and 228 ft high! 

You can complete a circular walk to the White Horse returning to Sutton Bank via a pretty woodland trail. Allow 2 hours for this walk. 

If you rather do some more sightseeing in Yorkshire instead of biking or hiking, you may want to check out the nearby Rievaulx Abbey . Here, you can visit the ruins of an impressive 11th-century abbey and a nice museum that captures the lives of monks. There is also a nice cafe on-site cafe serving amazing hot chocolates and scones.

TIP: Sutton Bank is a designated Dark Skies area. After dark, car parking is free for keen stargazers to gather to look at the night sky. Sutton Bank National Park runs year-round stargazing activities. The North York Moors National Park hosts an annual Dark Skies festival every February. 

How to visit : The White Horse can only be reached by car along some of Yorkshire’s windiest roads! Leave the A19 to head towards the small village of Kilburn from where you can pick up the brown road signs to reach the elevated car park under the White Horse. If you drive directly to Sutton Bank Visitor Centre, it can be found just off the A170 between Thirsk and Helmsley. Rievaulx Abbey is just a short ride from Helmsley as well.

The port city of Hull is an underrated visitor attraction in Yorkshire. It’s a great Yorkshire day trip destination for young and old! The city boasts a charming old town section lined with grand Georgian and Victorian-era houses, maritime warehouses, and cobbled streets. The old town is packed with lively restaurants and cafes and is a great place to get lost in! 

Within this old town is Hull’s excellent Museum Quarter . All of the museums here are worth a visit and are in close proximity to each other.

The free Streetlife Museum charts 200 years of transport developments. You can climb aboard trams, buses, and walk a recreated 1940’s street. It is a ‘must visit’ for social history fans as well as vehicle lovers.

Next door is the Hull & East Riding Museum and a little further on, Wilberforce House . Wilberforce House was the home of William Wilberforce, who is credited with bringing an end to slavery in England. Both of these excellent museums are free to enter and well worth your time.

In addition, check out Hull Minster church or head to the bustling Fruit Market at Hull Marina for a fantastic choice of street food. 

TIP: If you have any time left in your day trip to Hull, head to The Deep , a world-class, aquarium on the waterfront. 

How to visit : Hull can easily be accessed by train from York, Sheffield, or Leeds. Hull’s central rail station is just a 15-minute walk to the Museum Quarter. 

16. Newby Hall

Newby Hall is an 18th-century country house with beautiful gardens. It’s a favorite day out for many Yorkshire families, especially those on a multigenerational trip. The privately-owned Newby Hall helpfully offers separate entrance tickets to the stately home and the extensive gardens. So depending on your interests, you can choose which sections of the estate to visit. 

Newby Hall manor was built in the 1690s by Sir Christopher Wren who also built St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. The house is elegantly and elaborately decorated in an 18th-century style. You can visit recreated dining rooms and bedrooms, with highlights including the Billiards Room and the intricate needlework of the Tapestry Room. 

The colorful, landscaped gardens are dotted with winding paths leading to special interest sections such as the Tropical Garden or the White Garden. For reluctant little legs, there is a miniature steam railway that runs a 1.4-kilometer loop around a section of the garden that borders the River Ure.

However, the main attraction for families at Newby Hall is a huge, outdoor adventure playground. Kids will love the aerial slide, climbing frames, sandpit, and rope-operated aerial swing boats. Adults are not left out and are able to use the pedalo boats on the playground’s central lake. 

TIP: If you have any time after your day trip to Newby Hall, check out Ripon Cathedral in the nearby market town of Ripon. This stunning cathedral retains its original 7th-century crypt from the church that was originally built here by St Wilfred. 

The current church that now stands above the crypt was built in the 12th century. It is world-famous for its unusual misericords (supports in the choir stalls) which date from the late 15th century. 

How to visit:  Newby Hall is only accessible by car and is approximately a 40-minute drive from York. For practical information and opening times, please check their website .

17. The Forbidden Corner

The Forbidden Corner near Bedale is a fun, 4-acre park and a very unique Yorkshire attraction. Visitors receive a ‘map’ upon entry which shows you what there is to see inside the park. However, the map does not tell you how to find these attractions.

You have to follow every path and turn every door handle in a quest to discover the park’s secret passageways and underground chambers. It’s one of the best things to do in the  Yorkshire Dales with kids !

You will need to squeeze through narrow walls, crawl through cramped tunnels, and dodge water-spouting statues and follies. In other words, a visit to the Forbidden Corner is about expecting the unexpected! 

The park can be rushed in 2-3 hours but you will need longer if you want to discover all the park’s attractions. Food is not allowed inside The Forbidden Corner but there is a large, shaded picnic area outside the park entrance.

TIP: Spend the rest of your day exploring Tupgill Park in which the Forbidden Corner is situated. 

How to visit: Bedale is a one-hour drive from the city of York and a 1,5 hrs drive from Leeds. After leaving the major A1 (M) road, you will be driving on winding, undulating roads to reach the Forbidden Corner. For more info, please consult their website .

Because this place is so special and quirky, no pictures do it justice. Take a look at the video below if you want to get an idea of what to expect.

How to get to Yorkshire

Yorkshire is a 5-hour drive or just 2 hours by train from London . The region can be reached in 3 hours by train from Edinburgh .

The nearest airport is Leeds Bradford International Airport, located in West Yorkshire. The airport has good bus links to local train stations and to other parts of Yorkshire. 

Alternatively, many visitors arrive by ferry into the East Yorkshire city of Hull. Ferries travel to Hull from Rotterdam in the Netherlands and from Zeebrugge in Belgium.

How to travel around Yorkshire

Yorkshire is England’s biggest county and encompasses a large section of the north of England. It is divided into the smaller counties of North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire and East Riding of Yorkshire.

The major cities of each area – Leeds, Sheffield, York, and Hull can be accessed by motorway, major ‘A’ roads, and by frequent, fast rail links. 

There is a good public bus network to explore Yorkshire’s smaller towns and villages. But to fully explore rural Yorkshire, it’s best to hire a car ( see here for car rental ). Self-driving in Yorkshire is easy; roads are well maintained with good signposting. 

However, if you are visiting rural areas such as the Yorkshire Dales or Yorkshire Moors, you should be prepared for narrow, winding roads with high hedges and dry-stone walls blocking visibility in places. Yorkshire is dotted with one-lane roads, blind bends, and summits. So adjust your speed and familiarize yourself with the rules of countryside driving. 

In addition, country roads can add a significant amount of time onto relatively short journeys. For example, from the city of York to Ingleton in the Yorkshire Dales is only 68 miles / 109 km, but due to the nature of the roads, the journey time averages 2 hours each way.  

Where to stay for exploring Yorkshire

The city of York is a perfect base for exploring the rest of Yorkshire. York lies in the middle of the region and has excellent road, rail and bus links around the county.

Traveling by train, you can reach Leeds in 30 minutes and Hull in 50 minutes. By car, it is a 1-hour drive to the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and a 1 ½ hour drive to the North Yorkshire Coast.

TIP: If you don’t want to rent a car, York is the best base for exploring as well. There are many great organized tours from York that allow you to easily see some of the best places in Yorkshire.

Here are some nice hotels in York for all budgets:

• £££££ The Grand, York – a wonderful 5-star hotel with an excellent location.
• ££££ Hilton York and Novotel York Centre are popular choices among the 4-star hotels in York.
• £££ Park Inn by Radisson York City Centre – a great 3-star hotel, one of the best picks in York.
• ££ Ibis York Center is a good lower-budget option in York.

TIP: Using the map below, you can find the best deals for hotels, B&Bs, and short-term rental accommodations in and around York . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your stay. Check it out!

More inspiration for your trip to England:

• Best Things to Do in Liverpool
• Liverpool Day Trip from London
• Best Things to Do in Manchester
• Manchester in One Day
• Best Places to Visit in Cornwall
• Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Best Things to Do in Blackpool
• Tips for Visiting Blackpool
• Places to Go Near Blackpool
• The Beatles Attractions in Liverpool

London travel guides:

• Tips for Visiting London
• Best Things to Do in London
• 2 Days London Itinerary
• Hidden Gems of London
• Things to Do in Greenwich
• Things to Do in Camden Town
• London with Kids
• Best Views of London
• Best Day Tours from London

Travel inspiration for Scotland:

• Top Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Isle of Skye Itinerary
• Scotland Whisky Tour
• One Day in Edinburgh
• One Day in Glasgow

READ ALSO: Best Traditional British Dishes to Try in the UK

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This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Colleen Bower

Wednesday 18th of January 2023

Thank you so much for this website it has given me plenty of ideas as I was not sure of best place to stay but it looks like York best place to be in and do tours. Again great website thank you

Thursday 19th of January 2023

Glad to hear you found it useful, Colleen. York can be a great base especially if you want to take some tours. But if you are renting a car, you can also plan a mini road trip around the region. It's all about how you prefer to travel. Have a great trip!

Friday 4th of February 2022

Wonderful website! Beautiful photos and helpful info

Thanks, Denise. Happy travels!

Saturday 20th of March 2021

Yorkshire is awesome

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Yorkshire Dales from York

Hotel Pick up available 

Minimum age: Travelers need to be at least 5 years-old

24-hour cancellation policy 

Includes Attractions 

Explore the glorious Yorkshire Dales and take in the beautiful scenery and explore the picturesque villages filled with character and charm. Visiting the historic Bolton Castle, once home to the imprisoned Mary Queen of Scots. Explore the charming villages of Hawes home to Wensleydale Cheese and Grassington used in the current series of All Creatures Great and Small. 

Summer 2024

23rd March 2024 - 29th October 2024

Full day 09.15 - 17.30

Activity Level

• Transport in a 16-Seater mini-bus;
• Knowledgable & friendly driver-guide
• On-board commentary in English

Main Departure point

Duncombe Place, York, YO1 7EF

How to find us

Pickup Service

What 3 Words - ///brass.valid.aware

This tour will start opposite Dean Court Hotel in Duncombe Place next to York Minster, Y01 7EF.

The pick up point is in the heart of city, aproximately 10 minutes walk from York Railway Station.

Tour Itinerary

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through the renowned Yorkshire Dales National Park with Mountain Goat. The Yorkshire Dales National Park is globally recognized for its exceptional landscape, featuring rolling emerald hills intersected by countless miles of dry stone walls, dramatic limestone crags, and a plethora of charming towns and villages.

Our journey commences at 09:15, departing from York and heading through the plains of York where will start to delve into the region's historical significance. It’s not long before the landscape starts to change the we quickly understand why this landscape is so loved.

After heading through the delightful scenery of Nidderdale and Wharfedale our first stop brings us to the captivating village of Grassington. With a history dating back to Roman times, this enchanting settlement boasts a quaint Market Square, delightful shops, and cozy cafes and pubs. Grassington has gained recent fame as the filming location for the picturesque village of Darrowby in the new series of "All Creatures Great and Small."

Continuing onward, we venture off the beaten path and into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. Our route continues its journey through the idyllic Wharfedale valley before ascending to the highest road in the Dales, Beggermans Pass. Along the way, we'll encounter awe-inspiring vistas, tranquil villages, and recognizable filming locations from the new series of "All Creatures Great and Small."

Beggermans Pass ultimately delivers us to the unofficial capital of the Yorkshire Dales, Hawes, situated at a lofty 589 meters above sea level. This historic market town provides a quintessential Dales experience, offering a bustling town centre with inviting pubs and the esteemed Wensleydale Creamery, where you can sample the legendary cheese.

Following a leisurely lunch, we delve deeper into Wensleydale to uncover the illustrious Robin Hood Waterfalls, more formally known as Aysgarth Falls. This cinematic location was featured in "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves." Take your time admiring the cascading waterfalls before we proceed to our final stop at Castle Bolton.

This 14th-century fortress, home to the Le Scrope Family, invites you to enjoy tea and coffee within its ancient walls. Explore the magnificent gardens, observe the majestic Birds of Prey,  wild boar, and relish the panoramic views across Wensleydale. For an additional fee, you may choose to visit Mary Queen of Scots' Bedroom or scale the tower for a breathtaking photo opportunity.

As we bid farewell to Castle Bolton, we are treated to one last view over Wensleydale before descending back into the plains of York and returning to the city.

Street View

At Mountain Goat we want to help customers as much as possible, we hope our FAQ page will help Click here to view .

Cancellation Policy

You may cancel 24 hours prior to departure to receive a full refund. after 24 hours no refund will be issued..

For full terms and conditions please see here .

Stop at the medieval Bolton Castle

Enjoy the village of Hawes home to Wensleydale Cheese

Aysgarth Falls, picture perfect waterfalls, used in the Hollywood blockbuster, Robin Hood Prince of Thieves.

Travel through the Dales on this scenic tour

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Bolton Castle
• Grassington 
• Hawes 
• Aysgarth Falls 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• Activity level: You will have the option to walk up to a few hundred metres to take in a view or point of interest.
• There is space on-board for hand luggage.
• There are plenty of stops for photos, toilet breaks and refreshments. 
• All passengers must have their own seat
• We ask all passengers to arrive on time, as we will leave promptly at the displayed time.
• Attractions included 
• Onboard commentary in English 
• Knowledgeable driver-guides 
• Food and drink 
• No dogs 
• Only specified attractions included 

Recommended Tours

All Creatures Great and Small

Full day from £56.00

Highlights Include Attractions - Beautiful Scenery - Castles - Film & TV Locations - Historic Houses - Local Food & Drink - Museums - National Park - Nature & Wildlife - Short Walks - Viewpoints - Villages

North York Moors & Whitby

Highlights Include Attractions - Beautiful Scenery - Coast - Local Food & Drink - National Park - Viewpoints

Yorkshire Dales from the Lake District

Highlights Include Beautiful Scenery - Castles - Film & TV Locations - Literature Locations - Local Food & Drink - National Park - Nature & Wildlife - Shopping - Viewpoints - Villages - Waterfalls

1-Day Yorkshire Dales National Park Itinerary

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• Yorkshire Dales National Park in 1 day
• 2-Day Yorkshire Dales National Park Itinerary
• 3-Day Yorkshire Dales National Park Itinerary
• 4-Day Yorkshire Dales National Park Itinerary
• 5-Day Yorkshire Dales National Park Itinerary

Table of contents

1-day itinerary, royal armouries museum.

Leeds Art Gallery

National Science and Media Museum

Embsay & bolton abbey steam railway - (bolton abbey station), grassington national park visitor centre, where to eat, grassington house, route 59 cafe.

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Top searches in Yorkshire Dales National Park

Popular road trips from yorkshire dales national park, what's the weather like in yorkshire dales national park.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Yorkshire Dales National Park for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in January
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in February
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in March
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in April
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in May
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in June
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in July
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in August
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in September
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in October
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in November
• Weather in Yorkshire Dales National Park in December

All road trips from Yorkshire Dales National Park

• Yorkshire Dales National Park to London drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Edinburgh drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Paris drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Dublin drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to York drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Amsterdam drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Liverpool drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Blackpool drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Rome drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Barcelona drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Glasgow drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Manchester drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Berlin drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Birmingham drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Prague drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Madrid drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Brussels drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Belfast drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Florence drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Milan drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Bath drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Vienna drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Budapest drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Lisbon drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Venice drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Newcastle upon Tyne drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Bruges drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Peak District National Park drive
• Yorkshire Dales National Park to Scarborough drive

Explore nearby places

• Yorkshire Dales National Park
• Hubberholme
• Horton-in-Ribblesdale
• West Burton
• West Witton
• Giggleswick
• Preston-under-Scar
• Threshfield
• Grassington
• Linton-in-Craven

All related maps of Yorkshire Dales National Park

• Map of Yorkshire Dales National Park
• Map of Hubberholme
• Map of Gayle
• Map of Hawes
• Map of Buckden
• Map of Askrigg
• Map of Horton-in-Ribblesdale
• Map of Kettlewell
• Map of Aysgarth
• Map of West Burton
• Map of Muker
• Map of Gunnerside
• Map of Carlton
• Map of Dent
• Map of Austwick
• Map of Keld
• Map of Redmire
• Map of West Witton
• Map of Clapham
• Map of Low Row
• Map of Giggleswick
• Map of Malham
• Map of Settle
• Map of Preston-under-Scar
• Map of Ingleton
• Map of Outhgill
• Map of Threshfield
• Map of Grassington
• Map of Linton-in-Craven
• Map of Grinton
• Map of Reeth

Yorkshire Dales National Park throughout the year

• Yorkshire Dales National Park in January
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in February
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in March
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in April
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in May
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in June
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in July
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in August
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in September
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in October
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in November
• Yorkshire Dales National Park in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Yorkshire Dales National Park?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 1-Day Settle Itinerary
• 1-Day Hawes Itinerary
• 1-Day Ingleton Itinerary
• 1-Day Aysgarth Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
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• Optimize your route
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• See time and distance between all your places

Some of the best walks in the Yorkshire Dales where your dogs are welcome too

There’s no better feeling than seeing our dogs sprint around a woodland or get zoomies in a field during their favourite time of the day (aside from treats).

But if you think your pet is getting bored on their usual walk, you might be hoping to take them somewhere new to explore.

Not too far from the Bradford district is the Yorkshire Dales, known for some of the most picturesque outdoor scenery and plenty of paths to discover, especially now the weather is getting better.

Here are some of the top-rated walks in the national park according to AllTrails – each route has been tagged as dog-friendly on the website.

All the below recommendations should be appropriate for our fluffy pals to make the most of, as long as you follow any outlined rules such as being aware of grazing farm animals and keeping them on leads where necessary.

Some of the most popular dog-friendly walks in the Yorkshire Dales

Malham landscape trail: janet's foss, gordale scar, and malham cove.

Difficulty: Moderate

Rating: 4.7/5 out of 3,606 reviews

Distance: 8km (average time of 2 hours 29 minutes to complete)

This is a “beautiful, scenic, and very popular” trail taking in riverside paths, waterfalls, and sweeping views as you make your way around.

You can also expect to see the sights of Janet's Foss, Goredale Scar and Malham Cove.

However, it’s important to note this trail includes “very rough, steep, and rocky terrain along cliff edges” so good footing and a head for heights are required.

It's recommended if you want to explore this walk, you should only do so in calm, clear, and dry conditions with good visibility.

See more about the route and all reviews on the AllTrails website here .

Bolton Abbey and the River Wharfe Circular

Rating: 4.7/5 out of 545 reviews

Distance: 13.8km (average time of 3 hours 47 minutes to complete)

This circular route begins from Bolton Bridge towards River Wharfe and continues along the riverside path.

You will then pass the ruins of the priory, where you cross the river via the bridge or the stepping stones and continue on the other side of the river before you cross the Cavendish Bridge and enter the woods.

The path leads you to the Strid, where the river narrows to cascade through limestone rocks.

AllTrails adds: “Continue along the river to the Barden Bridge, which you’ll cross and start heading back along the other side of the river.

"Reaching the Cavendish Bridge once more, cross over and follow the path to the Cavendish Memorial Fountain close to the B6160.

"This is dedicated to Lord Frederick Cavendish, who was assassinated in 1882 by Irish Nationalists while walking in Phoenix Park, Dublin. From here, follow the path back to the priory ruins and retrace your steps back to the car park.”

Depending on how much time you have (and the weather), it is easy to follow a shorter version of this route, just look out for the “well-signed paths and tracks on each side of the River Wharfe and four crossing points”.

Although the landscape is relatively easy, there are some inclines in the second half to be aware of.

Plus, the route follows “compacted stone paths, paths in woodland and grass meadows that can be muddy”.

Settle, Clay Pits, and Victoria Cave Circular

Rating: 4.6/5 out of 462 reviews

Distance: 8km (average time of 2 hours 43 minutes to complete)

Take in the sights of Settle throughout this circular route in the Yorkshire Dales.

Just some of the highlights that make this walk one of the most popular are the “great views” of Pen-y-ghent and Ingleborough, two of the three Yorkshire Peaks.

AllTrails explains: “The caves add intrigue to the walk and being so close to the Warrendale Knotts is awesome.”

It adds: “The terrain is rugged in places, with some steep gradients so care is needed with footing, especially near the caves. You will need to negotiate several gates, some steps plus one stile. Appropriate footwear is required as well as sun protection.

“It is the Dales, so expect sheep along the paths so dogs will need to be kept under close control the entire time and on lead near livestock.

“The car park at the trailhead is pay and display and there are a number of places for refreshments nearby. There are also trains and buses for public transport options.”

Ribble Head Circular

Rating: 4.6/5 out of 253 reviews

Distance: 8.4km (average time of 2 hours 1 minute to complete)

Looking for more stunning views? They can be found along this circular route “over the surrounding area and the historic viaduct”.

Adventurers can expect to stroll across a combination of paved roads and rougher paths.

Best Beaches in the UK

Recommended reading:

• 5 of the best spring walks in the Yorkshire Dales – fancy some fresh air?
• Walks: Explore Aysgarth Falls and 'the best of Wensleydale'
• 7 of the best UK hiking trails to explore this summer - do you have any planned?

The outdoor website adds: “Care is needed on these rougher sections, especially in wetter conditions. Appropriate footwear is required.

“You will also need to be aware of livestock, including sheep, along the paths.”

Walkers can also make their way there by train as the station is nearby or stop off at the pub close to the trailhead car park.

• ARTS & MUSEUMS
• EDUCATIONAL

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Yorkshire Adventure Sightseeing Day Trip From Liverpool

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