Any visit to the area must include Yorkshire Dales National Park. The 1,762 square kilometer park provides visitors with a superb place to relax in a peaceful setting, as well as the ideal location for outdoor recreational activities such as horse-back riding, cycling, and walking. The park is also a haven for the numerous species of wildlife that inhabit the Yorkshire Dales area.
One of the park’s attractions is the Dales Countryside Museum, which is located in the renovated Hawes railway station in the northern part of the park. The museum features displays that track the region’s development from prehistoric time to the present. Exhibits emphasize all aspects of life in the Yorkshire Dales region.
Those with an interest in spelunking must be certain to visit White Scar Cave, Britain’s longest show cave. Also located in Yorkshire Dales National Park, the cave’s stunning subterranean scenery includes waterfalls, streams, and stalactites. Numerous and varied formations can be viewed during the 80-minute, approximately one mile guided tour, which follows well-lit paths for ease of access.
History and architecture buffs alike will fall in love with the numerous castles, abbeys, gardens, and stunning homes in Yorkshire Dales. Among the area’s most popular attractions are the numerous English Heritage properties located throughout Yorkshire Dales. The English Heritage properties in the area include Rievaulx Abbey; Whitby Abbey; Mount Grace Priory; Richmond Castle; Brodsworth Hall and Gardens; Scarborough Castle; and Middleham, the childhood home of King Richard III.
While the youngsters in your group may not fully appreciate the historical buildings and architectural attractions, they will very likely fall in love with The Forbidden Corner. Voted the best children’s attraction in Yorkshire, this four acre garden conceals a unique labyrinth of tunnels and chambers for visitors to navigate for their enjoyment. Featuring a variety of paths and passages to nowhere, there are plenty of surprises to delight visitors as they find their way through the gardens.
No visit to the Yorkshire Dales area is complete without a visit to one of the local working breweries, where award-winning ales are crafted by member’s of Britain’s legendary Theakston family of brewers. Guided tours are offered at both breweries. Visitors are able to observe the traditional brewing process in action, and of course have an opportunity to sample an ale or two at the end of the tour.
These are but a few of the interesting and exciting sightseeing opportunities that await visitors to Yorkshire Dales. The region also features a variety of accommodations sure to please every personality and pocketbook. The area offers an excellent selection of accommodations, including cottages, hotels, guest houses, bed & breakfast facilities, and caravan and camping parks. Whether you are looking for a family outing, an opportunity to commune with nature, or a romantic getaway for two, Yorkshire Dales is an ideal destination for your next holiday.