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Yorkshire Dales National Park

Yorkshire Dales National Park: Our most recommended tours and activities

The Yorkshire Dales Tour from York

1. The Yorkshire Dales Tour from York

Escape the crowded streets of York for a full-day sightseeing tour of the Yorkshire Dales, and discover one of England’s most dramatic landscapes. Departing York in the morning, trave; to Yorkshire Dales national park, well known for its beautiful rolling hills and lazy rivers which flow down the dales (or valleys). The first stop will be in the market town of Masham in Lower Wensleydale. Famous for its family-run breweries, steam engines, and annual sheep fair, its thriving market (Wednesdays and Saturdays) is still going strong 762 years since its 1st charter. Continue towards Middleham, nestled between 2 rivers. Travel through the gently sloping Dales towards Castle Bolton, where you will see some of the best scenery Yorkshire has to offer. Admire one of Britain’s best-preserved medieval castles at Castle Bolton, built by Sir Richard Le Scrope to rival the most luxurious homes in the land. See the scars of its 600-year history, including its involvement in the Pilgrimage of Grace, Mary Queen of Scot’s imprisonment, and a Civil War siege. Afterward continue the journey through the stunning landscapes of Yorkshire traveling towards Aysgarth Falls on the River Ure. Here you will have the chance to view the famous waterfalls, which drop over three major falls in less than one mile. An amazingly scenic stop, the falls are a showcase of the beauty of nature. For lunch, head to the charming market town of Hawes. Nestled in Upper Wensleydale in North Yorkshire this beautiful place is surrounded on all sides by scenery the Yorkshire Dales is famous for. Travel over the Buttertubs pass which connects Hawes and the hamlet of Thwaite with spectacular views over the surrounding valleys and fells. In recent days, the pass was featured as the second King of the Mountains climb of the 2014 Grand Depart of the Tour de France. Hawes is also home to the Wensleydale Creamery, famous for its array of cheeses which are much loved by fictional, animated characters, Wallace and Gromit. Hawes marketplace was first recorded in 1307 and still has a lively market every Tuesday. Enjoy the delights of Wensleydale Creamery including the visitors center and cheese tasting room. Explore the creamery and have a taste of the real Dales in their sample room. There is plenty of time to shop for your favorite cheeses and marvel at the beautiful surroundings. Finally, follow the Dales scenic route back to the medieval city of York, driving through picturesque villages and classic Dales villages, with stops along the way so you can photograph the memorable landscapes.

From York: Full-Day Yorkshire Dales Tour

2. From York: Full-Day Yorkshire Dales Tour

Discover the wonders of Yorkshire Dales National Park on a guided tour from York. Travel by air-conditioned coach to highlights like Bolton Castle, Kettlewell, Pateley Bridge, and more. Enjoy free time to explore local sights and foods in Hawes. Leave York to explore the memorable landscape of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Stop at the 14th-century Bolton Castle, the former home of Mary Queen of Scots, to enjoy sweeping views over Wensleydale. Next, enjoy free time in Hawes. Sample the cheeses at the world-famous Wensleydale Creamery, visit the Dales Countryside Museum, or explore the quaint shops and cafes (costs not included). Move on to the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Pass through the picturesque villages on the way to Kettlewell, the main filming location for the Calendar Girls movie. Explore the village, learn more about the true story behind the movie, or relax with the locals in one of the pubs and cafes. Before heading back to York, stop in the charming town of Pateley Bridge and see the oldest sweet shop in the world.

From Leeds: Yorkshire Dales Emmerdale Locations Bus Tour

3. From Leeds: Yorkshire Dales Emmerdale Locations Bus Tour

Although the current Emmerdale TV soap is now filmed on a closed set this tour will take you to the original locations dotted around West Yorkshire. You will visit the market town of Otley and the beautiful village of Esholt in West Yorkshire, used as Hotton and Emmerdale Village in the long-running TV show. Here, you can have a drink at the inn that was once used as the fabled Woolpack, site of many of the popular TV series most memorable scenes. You’ll also drive past the farm near Leathley where Emmerdale farm was originally shot. During the tour take the opportunity to get off the bus at several occasions. Stretch your legs, take pictures of the recognizable buildings and landmarks, and see the locations from one of Britain's longest-running TV soaps.

From York: Herriot and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip

4. From York: Herriot and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip

Start your tour from York city center. Stop at the traditional market town of Masham in Lower Wensleydale, which gained its market charter over 700 years ago in 1251. Here you can learn some of the Town’s history from your guide and see the remains of an Anglo-Saxon cross shaft, thought to be around 1300 years old, at the Church of St. Mary the Virgin, explore the quaint shops or just enjoy a leisurely Yorkshire brew and some cake in one of the cafes on the square – the choice is yours! Head out across Masham Moor where the sheep roam freely amongst the Heather and vast open landscape on our way over the tops to Nidderdale. The fantastic views and scenery over Gouthwaite Reservoir and miles of drystone walls make it perfect for some great photo stops. Arrive in the picturesque town of Grassington, famous for its role as the fictional town of ‘Darrowby’ in the new ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ television series, first aired in 2020. Here you will have 1.5 hours free time to explore the shops, Cafes and filming locations or even pop into the Devonshire Arms pub (The Drovers in All Creatures Great and Small) for a drink with the locals! We make our way to the beautiful Linton Falls. It is only a very short drive away so, if you prefer, you have the option to take the short walk from the Visitor Centre car park down the old stone path to the falls at Linton and meet your guide on the bridge over the river Wharfe. We follow the meandering route of the River Wharfe passing through the village of Burnsall and stopping at the historical ruin of Barden Tower, a 12th Century hunting lodge, once the seat of administration for Barden hunting forest and the residence of Henry Clifford, the Shepherd Lord. Arriving at Bolton Abbey home to the 12th Century ruins of Bolton Priory an Augustinian Monastery founded in 1154 and destroyed in 1539 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under the reign of King Henry VIII. Today it looks extremely picturesque situated on the edge of the river Wharfe and for those of you feeling brave enough you can attempt to cross the river on the famous stepping stones… just don’t fall in! We depart Bolton Abbey and make our way back to York and say our goodbyes.

From Liverpool: Full-Day Yorkshire Sightseeing Adventure

5. From Liverpool: Full-Day Yorkshire Sightseeing Adventure

Get a taste of Yorkshire on a full-day minibus tour from Liverpool. Explore the county's history and cuisine, admire feats of Victorian engineering, and see the picturesque Hardraw Force waterfall. After a partially-narrated 2-hour journey, arrive in Haworth to discover the stories of the Bronte Sisters – Anne, Charlotte, and Emily. From there, head to the stunning limestone feature of Malham Cove, formed by melt-water from glaciers over 12,000 years ago. See the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct, a masterpiece of 19th-century engineering, and take a stroll to get a closer look at its 1.5 million bricks. A stop at the must-visit Wensleydale Creamery follows. Sample some of its famous cheeses, made originally by Cistercian Monks. Next, visit the pretty village of Hawes, a honeypot of a town boasting shops, cafes, pubs, and locals sipping John Smith's while munching a Yorkshire Pudding. Once you have explored Hawes, head to Hardraw Force, the UK's highest single-drop waterfall, which is over 100 feet tall. Enjoy the splash pool and the breathtaking natural “amphitheater” before beginning your journey back to Liverpool.

From Manchester: Yorkshire Sightseeing Day Trip

6. From Manchester: Yorkshire Sightseeing Day Trip

Get a taste of Yorkshire on a full-day minibus tour from Manchester. Explore the county's history and cuisine, admire feats of Victorian engineering, and see the picturesque Hardraw Force waterfall. Make your way to the National Express Coach Station near Manchester Airport Railway Station to meet your driver for the day. Then, board your minibus and travel along roads inaccessible to normal buses throughout the day. After a partially-narrated 2-hour journey, arrive in Haworth to discover the stories of the Bronte Sisters — Anne, Charlotte, and Emily. From there, head to the stunning limestone feature of Malham Cove, formed by melt-water from glaciers over 12,000 years ago. See the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct, a masterpiece of 19th-century engineering, and take a stroll to get a closer look at its 1.5 million bricks. A stop at the must-visit Wensleydale Creamery follows. Sample some of its famous cheeses, made originally by Cistercian Monks. Next, visit the pretty village of Hawes, a honeypot boasting shops, cafes, pubs, and locals sipping John Smith's while munching a Yorkshire Pudding. Once you have explored Hawes, head to Hardraw Force, the UK's highest single-drop waterfall (30 meters/100 feet). Enjoy the splash pool and the breathtaking natural “amphitheater” before beginning your journey back to Manchester. Please note that the Hardraw Force entrance fee is not included in the tour price, but is available as an optional add-on for £2.50.

3-day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Tour from Manchester

7. 3-day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Tour from Manchester

Day 1: Travel to the Peak District. In the late morning, you will arrive in Castleton. This quaint old town attracts travelers from all over the world for its quintessential English charm. Nearby, there are caves, a beautiful view up a valley, and an insightful information center. Venture to the beautiful valley at Monsal Head. There’s an old rail line viaduct that emerges from the green hills. It’s a gorgeous structure with an impressive history. If you’re hungry, then you’re in luck, because you’re stopping for lunch in Bakewell. Not only is this town delicious to look at, but it’s also the home of one of England’s most famous desserts, the Bakewell Pudding. After savoring every last crumb, head over to Chatsworth House. This luxurious stately home is incredible; you can admire the architecture, get lost in a massive maze, or praise precious art. Finally, head off in the early evening to your overnight stop in York. Day 2: Full-day Tour of York Spend your morning in York. Visit a chocolate museum, find out about the Vikings, or just stroll around the ancient walls. Around midday, leave York and head to Goathland. This town was used in the Harry Potter movies and is situated in one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the UK. Your next stop is Whitby. This is the type of town everyone dreams of retiring in. There’s a beautifully-located, ruined abbey; old stone steps curving around viewpoints; and a lovely little beach to play about on. After exploring all the nooks and crannies of Whitby, travel to Robin Hood’s Bay. They doubt if the real Robin Hood ever came here, but there are still plenty of smugglers tales dotted around this remarkable harbor village. Finally, arrive back in York in the early evening. Day 3: Touring, Lunch, and Returning to Manchester Take the road to Fountains Abbey. This is one of the largest ruined abbeys in England and part of an important UNESCO Heritage site. Then find yourself surrounded by some of England’s most lovely waterfalls at AysgarthEnjoy a delicious lunch of Wensleydale's famous cheese and crackers. After lunch, travel past the epic Ribblehead railway viaduct before having a short snoop around the old castle-topped town of Clitheroe. In the evening, arrive in Manchester.

Heart of England, North Wales and Yorkshire 5-Day Tour

8. Heart of England, North Wales and Yorkshire 5-Day Tour

Discover the Heart of England on a scenic 5-day tour that also crosses the border into North Wales, where you’ll see the magnificent mountains of Snowdonia. Visit some of England’s oldest cities, including the cathedral city of York, the university city of Cambridge, and the medieval town of Chester. Go to Shakespeare’s birthplace, and vist Anne Hathaway’s tudor cottage. Travel by small minicoach, with accommodations in characterful bed and breakfasts for a more intimate experience. Day 1: Depart London and head north to Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of William Shakespeare and home to the Tudor thatched cottage and gardens of his wife, Anne Hathaway. There will be time to explore the quaint town center, and enjoy lunch at leisure, before driving to the World Heritage Site of Ironbridge close to the Welsh border. Set in a stunning gorge of the River Severn, the historic valley boasts the world’s first bridge made of iron, as well as a host of other attractions. Then, travel to the beautiful town of Shrewsbury to check in to your accommodation for the next 2 nights. Day 2: Today, you will head into the heart of North Wales and visit the picture book castle of Conwy, built by Edward I in the late 13th century. Marvel at the mountain scenery of Snowdonia National Park, including the huge Dinorwic slate quarries and the dramatic Pass of Llanberis in the shadows of the highest mountain peak in Wales. Hear tales of Owain Glyndwr and the Welsh struggles for independence before traveling back through the borderlands into England. Day 3: Leave Shrewsbury and drive to the hills of the Peak District National Park, where you will discover a mix of beautiful villages and rolling moors. Take a scenic route through the park to the village of Castleton. In the afternoon, visit the famous grouds and mansion house of Chatsworth, home to the Duke of Devonshire and often named the UK’s favourite country house. Inside, you’ll find one of the finest collections of furniture and paintings by Old Masters, as well as Neoclassical sculptures. Continue to the historic City of York, your base for the next 2 nights. Day 4: Today you have the option to spend the day at leisure exploring the medieval heart of York. Wander the streets of a city with a rich history that dates back to the time of the Romans, Vikings, and Normans. Visit some of York’s fascinating museums, and the stunning York Minster, or just lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets. Alternatively, join your guide on a half-day excursion into the Yorkshire Dales to visit the pretty market towns of Knaresborough or Ripon. Continue your scenic drive of the remote valleys and rugged scenery of the Eastern Dales, before returning to York for a free afternoon. Day 5: Depart the fair city of York in the morning, stopping in the town of Lincoln, famed for its beautiful historic center and delicious Lincolnshire sausages. Continue to the university City of Cambridge, where you can stroll the medieval streets in the shadow of the dreamy spires of historic colleges, including the famous Kings College Chapel. Walk along the banks of the River Cam, where you might see punters out for the day. Continue to London for an estimated arrival time of approximately 19:30.

From Edinburgh: The Best of Northern England 5-Day Tour

9. From Edinburgh: The Best of Northern England 5-Day Tour

Spend 5 glorious days exploring the very best of northern England on this exciting multi-day tour. Discover the beautiful East Lothian coastline and the amazing Alnwick Castle, spend some time in the city of York, and explore nature in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park and the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Visit the mysterious Castlerigg standing stones, travel to the shores of Ullswater,, said to be England's most beautiful lake and much more along the way. Day 1 Your tour starts with a beautiful drive down the magnificent East Lothian coastline as you travel towards the walled border town of Berwick Upon Tweed. After stopping to admire the fortifications, continue to Alnwick Castle, whose magnificent interior and gardens have appeared in many films and television programs. Leaving Alnwick behind, travel towards the City of York on the Great North Road, and arrive in York in the late afternoon. [Overnight in York.] Day 2 This leisurely day gives you the flexibility to spend time exploring the medieval heart of York, a city whose rich history goes back to the time of the Romans, Vikings, and the Normans before traveling to the North Sea coast of Yorkshire. Your journey begins in the late morning when you head for the magnificent North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Lunch will be in Whitby, a bustling fishing port and the inspiration for the fertile imagination of author Bram Stoker. After lunch and free time in Whitby, travel to the fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay*, a perfectly preserved conservation village of winding lanes and narrow alleys before returning to York. [Overnight in York. * The mini coach cannot access the main village because of local restrictions. The coach will drop you at the top of the village and you must walk down (and back up!) a steep hill to reach the old village center. Day 3 Head west in the morning into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Established in 1954, the Yorkshire Dales National Park has outstanding scenery, a range of wildlife habitats, and rich cultural heritage. Continuing West, your route takes us through the Northern Dales, a beautiful area of natural beauty that is the center of the Dales cattle trade. Throughout the day, you will have the opportunity to taste the flavors of Yorkshire when you visit the town of Masham, home to two of Yorkshire's best-known breweries, and the cheese-making center in historic Hawes. The final leg of the journey takes you high up into the remote hill of the Yorkshire Dales before descending into the lively market town of Keswick, where you will be dropped off at your accommodation and are then free to explore this charming town. [Overnight in Keswick.] [**During July this tour may stay in Windermere instead.] Day 4 After breakfast, head a short distance out of town to the mysterious Castlerigg standing stones, thought by many to have been built over 5,000 years ago. Then travel on to the shores of Ullswater, described as England’s most beautiful lake, for a forest walk to see the mighty Aira Force waterfall. Continuing south over the narrow and winding Kirkstone Pass, stop at Lake Windermere for a leisurely cruise on the lake or simply eat lunch while enjoying views of the mountains and lakes. After lunch, travel around the southern tip of Windermere and on towards Coniston Water, arriving at the picturesque conservation village of Hawkeshead. After exploring the village, take the narrow country lanes north towards Grasmere, and enjoy some free time to visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage or to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy. Return to Keswick In the late afternoon. [Overnight in Keswick.] Day 5 Leaving the Lakes behind, start your climb towards Hartside Pass, at over 1900 feet above sea level, with the hills and mountains of Scotland and the English Lake District easily visible on a clear day. Follow the route of the old sheep drovers road between England and Scotland, stopping at Hadrian's Wall along the way, and crossing the border into Scotland and towards the town of Jedburgh for refreshments by the ruins of Jedburgh Abbey. The final stop of the tour is at the world-famous Scott’s view with stunning views over the River Tweed and the Cheviot hills that form the border between Scotland before continuing North to Edinburgh.

Yorkshire: Tour Gear in a Box

10. Yorkshire: Tour Gear in a Box

The Yorkshire Bargain Box Tour includes everything you need for the perfect adventure. When booking select the level of difficulty for your walk (easy/moderate/advanced) and we'll send you out a surprise self-guided route. Your box tour will include: Detailed Tour Itinerary – The in depth route will tell you where to start (& park) & detail every stop along the way to make sure you never lose your feet. In depth marked map outlining your route. Small laminated maps to wear around your neck on your walk with summarised directions & things to look out for. Top tips to make the most of your adventures, help you prepare & keep you safe. Lots of fun facts about the places & things you’ll see along the way. Kit list to make sure you pack everything you need. Support for your trip and emergency contact details. Lots of suggestions of what else to do in the area – including places to eat, visit & other adventures. Novelty compass & ‘how to’ guide to make sure you always stay on track Exclusive Embark whistle & embark goodies Discount vouchers for some of your favourite outdoor brands.

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What people are saying about Yorkshire Dales National Park

Overall rating

4.8 / 5

based on 692 reviews

T’was a lovely day of sightseeing! Tim and Gillian did a great job of getting us there safe and had great commentary along the way. Would recommend to anyone with a literary background, or who wants to learn more about the Brontë’s and see a traditional Yorkshire village and moor.

We booked this trip last minute not sure what to expect, but it was a lovely few hours well spent . Very Relaxing watching the world go by enjoying the afternoon tea that was provided served by a lovely young lad . Would do it a again.

Fantastic day out with Mark. We loved all the history he shared and we can't stop thinking about all of the amazing places we saw that day. His food recommendations for lunch were spot on. Overall, we had a glorious time!

Gorgeous scenery. Mark was very knowledgeable. Thoroughly recommend it - even with the rain.

Delivered as advertised. Driver very knowledgeable. Beautiful trip.