Yorkshire Dales is a spectacular national park in northern England renowned for its lush green valleys, rolling hills, dry stone walls, and picturesque villages. It’s also popular for hiking, caving, and photography. There are plenty of spectacular places to explore and exciting things to do in Yorkshire Dales. You must add the following top 10 places to visit and things to do in Yorkshire Dales in your bucket list without which your trip will be incomplete. These are the must-see and must-do on any Yorkshire Dales trip:
- Ribblehead Viaduct
- Aysgarth Falls
- Malham Cove
- Buttertub Pass
- Bolton Abbey
- Fountain Abbey
- Brimham Rocks
- Scar House Reservoir
- Bolton Castle
- Thornton le dale village
- Ribblehead Viaduct
Stretching 400 metres across the Ribble Valley in the centre of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Ribblehead Viaduct is a testament to Victorian Engineering. With the three peaks as a background, the viaduct provides breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Standing on 24 massive stone arches that carry the railway line 104 feet above the moor, this iconic structure is immensely popular among tourists for its impressive design.
- Aysgarth Falls
Aysgarth Falls are three stepped waterfalls famous for their spectacular natural beauty cascading down limestone steps. The middle fall is the most impressive among the three distinct sections. You may visit with your loved ones, friends, or your dog and cherish breathtaking surroundings. You could also go for a relaxing walk as it offers several scenic trails. The falls and surrounding woodlands and hills become more striking after heavy rain, which occurs frequently in The Yorkshire Dales.
- Malham Cove
Malham Cove is a spectacular limestone formation, famous for its outstanding natural beauty and geological significance. The cove has a dramatic curved cliff with a stunning gorge, rich wildlife and breathtaking views. The top of Malham Cove is renowned for its limestone pavement, characterised by deep fissures known as “grykes” and flat-topped stones called “clints”. The area is significantly popular for hiking, walking and photography as it has trails with outstanding panoramic views.
- Buttertub Pass
Buttertub Pass is arguably the most scenic mountain pass in the UK. With its steep mountains, lush green valleys, serene atmosphere and breathtaking vistas, the pass will give you an amazing thrilling experience. The best way to experience the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales is a scenic road trip through Buttertub Pass.
One of the best routes to take is from Hawes, charming market town, to Muker, a picturesque village, via Buttertub pass. The winding roads will take you through jaw dropping landscapes. Keep an eye for scenic viewpoints where you may stop and snap pictures.
- Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey is a spectacular estate in North Yorkshire, located in the centre of the exquisite ruins of an Augustinian priory from the 12th century. The location lies on the banks of the River Wharfe and is encircled by picturesque landscapes. One of the major attractions is the priory’s remains. You can explore the striking arches and masonry while admiring the serene ambiance.
The wider estate is perfect for hiking and nature walks as it features lovely woodland, hilly terrain, and meadows. There are picnic areas, beautiful walks, and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and canoeing along the river. The famous stepping stones offer a delightful place to traverse. There are cafes and stores in the nearby charming Bolton Abbey village, making it the ideal place to stop for a bite to eat or indulge in a local speciality.
- Fountain Abbey
Fountain Abbey, located in North Yorkshire, is renowned for its breathtaking architecture and picturesque surroundings. This UNESCO world heritage site, founded in 1132, is one of the best-preserved Cistercian monasteries in England. The historic ruins include the majestic stone church, cloisters, and other monastic structures.
The magnificent Studley Royal Park, which is renowned for its lovely gardens, lakes, and woodlands, is where the abbey is located. The park offers a beautiful contrast to the abbey ruins with its 18th-century formal water gardens, complete with classical temples and tumbling water elements. Here is a complete guide to help you plan your adventure on one of the most scenic drives in the world!
- Brimham Rocks
Brimham rocks, part of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), are well-known for their remarkable and distinctive rock formations that have been shaped over thousands of years by weathering, erosion and geological processes. The most popular rocks at Brimham include “The Dancing Bear,” “The WatchTower,” and “The Camel”. The imaginative shapes that tourists frequently perceive in the rocks are reflected in these names.
Brimham Rocks is also an excellent location for nature walks and birdwatching, with a wide range of plants and animals that flourish there. It provides an excellent opportunity to discover the Yorkshire Dales’ historical significance and scenic splendour.
- Scar House Reservoir
Scar House Reservoir, located in the Harrogate district of North Yorkshire, is a designated conservation area extremely popular among tourists for its outstanding picturesque landscapes, hills, valleys, and moorlands. The reservoir offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and strolling. Built in 1936, it was one of several reservoirs constructed to give Leeds and the surrounding towns a steady supply of water.
- Bolton Castle
Bolton Castle, situated near the village of Aysgarth, is a stunning, well-preserved mediaeval fortress extremely popular among history lovers and nature enthusiasts. It offers a variety of activities, including archery, falconry demonstrations, and wild boar feeding. The Great Hall, mediaeval kitchens, dungeons, and Mary, Queen of Scots’ apartment are among the interior features of the castle that are open to visitors. The castle’s attraction as a vibrant historical landmark is increased by the numerous events it hosts all year long, including as historical festivals, outdoor performances, and mediaeval reenactments.
- Thornton le dale village
Famous for its charming thatched cottages, peaceful beck, and vibrant community life, Thornton le Dale is a beautiful village tucked away on the outskirts of North York Moors National Park. It offers a great fusion of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and family-friendly attractions, and is frequently referred to as one of Yorkshire’s most attractive villages.
no comment