Explore The Stunning Yorkshire Dales, With Breath-Taking Walks, Charming Villages, And Cosy Accommodation

Talk of a quintessential British countryside escape with rolling green hills, stone cottages, and sheep casually ambling across the road definitely means a visit to the Yorkshire dales in England. 

It is the kind of place where time slows down, and you can lose yourself in the beauty of nature, enjoy some fresh air, and finish the day in a cosy pub with a pint of Yorkshire ale. What is so good about the Dales is that they do really have something for everyone and if you’re on a quick visit to the UK you usually wished you spent more time in this particular part of the British countryside.

Where Are the Yorkshire Dales, and How Do You Get There?

First things first – let’s talk about where the Yorkshire Dales actually are within the UK. They are located in the North East of England, roughly halfway between London and Scotland. This is a part of the broader county of Yorkshire, or as the locals call it “God’s Own Country”. Once you see it, you will understand why. The area is known for its dramatic landscapes, made up of rolling hills, lush valleys, limestone cliffs, and winding rivers.

You can get to the dales either by train or by car. Skipton is one of the major gateway towns to the Dales, and it’s well-connected by rail from both Manchester and London. Once you are in Skipton, you can hop on local buses to get to some of the most popular spots in the national park. However, honestly, if you want to fully explore the Dales and visit some of the more off-the-beaten-path gems, a car really comes in handy.

Where to Stay

One of the delights of staying in the Yorkshire Dales is that you can choose anything from a five-star luxury hotel to a quaint B&B that feels like magic. Here are a few Yorkshire accommodations that will suit both your style and budget and offer an authentic experience.

1. The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa, Bolton Abbey

To spoil yourself a little, the Devonshire Arms is a stunning country hotel set within the grounds of the Bolton Abbey Estate. The rooms are elegant yet cosy, and the hotel also has a fabulous restaurant serving local Yorkshire products. After a day of being in a Yorkshire Valley, you can relax in the spa or take a leisurely walk around the estate’s beautiful grounds. It is the perfect blend of comfort and countryside. 

Yorebridge House, Bainbridge

For something a little bit more intimate and romantic, Yorebridge House in Bainbridge offers boutique-style accommodation with beautiful views of the Dales. Each room is individually decorated with a mix of modern luxury and rustic charm. A few of them even have private hot tubs. With that in mind, it is one of the greatest options for luxury hotels in Yorkshire Dales with a hot tub, perfect for couples looking for a relaxing, indulgent stay.

2. Grassington House, Grassington

This one is located in the heart of the pretty village of Grassington. Grassington House is a charming Georgian building offering cosy, individually styled rooms. The village itself is picture-perfect, with cobbled streets and independent shops. The restaurant is excellent, so you do not have to go far to enjoy a tasty meal.

3. Airbnb Cottages and Farm Stays

For a more laid-back, home-away-from-home experience, there are plenty of Yorkshire accommodations and farm stays available to rent through Airbnb. Many of these offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and provide that quintessential British experience. Think complete wood-burning stoves, stone walls, and the occasional curious sheep outside your window.

Best Walks to Take in the Sights

One of the biggest draws of the Yorkshire Dales UK is the endless opportunities for walks. No matter what you’re after – a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s a route for every fitness level. The Dales is full of circular walks, which is great as it means you’ll start and end in the same spot without covering the same sights on the way there and back. Here are some of the best walks in Yorkshire Dales.

1. The Malham Cove Circular Walk

This is one of the most popular walks in the Yorkshire Valley and there is a good reason for it. Start from the village of Malham – the walk will take you through some of the most stunning scenery in the area. This includes the dramatic Malham Cove, a towering limestone cliff that looks like something straight out of a fantasy novel.

2. The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

If you love waterfalls, then this is the walk for you – the breathtaking Ingleton Waterfalls Trail circular route. It takes you past a series of beautiful waterfalls, all set within the stunning limestone landscape of the Dales. The path can be steep in certain parts, but it’s worth the effort. The scenery you can see from the Waterfalls is beyond words, especially if you are visiting in autumn. 

3. The Bolton Abbey Walk

If you prefer more leisurely walks in the Yorkshire Dales, the Bolton Abbey Walk is a gentle circular route. It takes you around the ruins of Bolton Abbey and along the banks of the River Wharfe. The abbey itself is steeped in history and the surrounding estate is beautifully maintained. Also, there are plenty of picnic spots along the way. There are also stepping stones across the river for anyone feeling brave.

4. The Ribblehead Viaduct Walk

This is a shorter walk but one that packs some fantastic views. Starting at Ribblehead, the route takes you to the famous Ribblehead Viaduct, an impressive feat of Victorian engineering that spans 400 metres across the valley. The viaduct is part of the Settle-Carlisle Railway. If you’re lucky, you might spot a steam train crossing the arches.

A day out walking in the Yorkshire Dales offers the perfect combination of stunning natural landscapes, charming villages, and that peaceful countryside atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve truly escaped from the world. 

Pack your walking boots, womens waterproof trench coat, book yourself a cosy stay, and get ready to explore the Yorkshire Dales. You are in for a day out you will never forget.