Fountains Abbey

Welcome to your adventure through the Yorkshire Dales! This self-guided journey will take you through some of the region’s most iconic sites, blending breathtaking landscapes with rich history and charming local culture. Start with Fountains Abbey, where you’ll wander through the grand ruins of a once-thriving medieval abbey, surrounded by gardens that feel like stepping back in time. The abbey’s towering stone arches and tranquil setting make it one of the region’s most awe-inspiring spots. Next, visit Jervaulx Abbey, a hidden gem among Yorkshire’s monastic ruins. Once a great Cistercian monastery, today it stands as a romantic, ivy-clad ruin where you can explore at your own pace. The peaceful, flower-filled grounds make it a perfect stop for quiet reflection and appreciation of the abbey’s storied past. As you make your way to Bolton Castle, prepare to explore a genuine medieval fortress with interactive exhibits that bring history to life. Here, you can walk ancient hallways, see traditional displays of falconry, and climb to high points for sweeping views of the Dales. Moving on, take in the beauty of Aysgarth Falls, a series of tiered waterfalls ideal for a peaceful, scenic walk. Then, experience local life in Hawes, a market town famous for its Wensleydale cheese stop by for a sample and a peek into the cheese-making process. For a secluded natural wonder, head to Hardraw Force, England’s tallest single-drop waterfall hidden in a lush, wooded area that feels like your own private oasis. Then, at Coldstones Cut, marvel at panoramic views from this sculptural viewpoint overlooking an old quarry a unique place to connect with the landscape. Finally, let your journey end at Brimham Rocks, where surreal rock formations invite you to climb, explore, and take in the vast, open views of the Dales. Each stop on this tour offers a new way to experience Yorkshire’s remarkable beauty and history.

Welcome to Nidderdale, a hidden gem in the Yorkshire Dales, waiting to be discovered from the comfort of your car. This driving tour guides you through an enchanting landscape of history, natural wonders, and local charm, all accessible at your own pace. Begin your journey at Fountains Abbey, where you'll explore the majestic ruins of an ancient monastery and wander through its serene Georgian water gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site blending history with beauty. Continuing on, you’ll encounter the gravity-defying Brimham Rocks, incredible formations that seem as if playful giants have stacked them, creating a natural sculpture park like no other. Your drive takes you next to the charming market town of Pateley Bridge, home to England's oldest sweet shop, where a stop is essential for a nostalgic treat. As you ascend to Coldstones Cut, Yorkshire’s largest public artwork, prepare for breathtaking views from a dramatic viewing platform above a working quarry. For a final stop, the peaceful trails of Fewston Reservoir await, with tranquil lakeside views and woodland paths, perfect for a short stroll and some fresh air. This driving tour through Nidderdale is your window into an inspiring landscape of culture, history, and natural beauty—each stop more memorable than the last.