Discovering the Yorkshire Dales

Imagine driving along the idyllic country roads through picturesque villages and arriving at ‘the Top of the World’. The world-famous Tan Hill Inn, Britain’s highest pub, sits 1,732 feet above sea level against the backdrop of the most stunning scenery found in the UK. You can get here from your cottage in the Dales by following the Regional Route 71 from Richmond.

High above the beauty and delights of Arkengarthdale, Swaledale and Teesdale you can join walkers and cyclists exploring the area. Stop and walk the famous Pennine Way and through part of the coast to coast before stopping for a tea and scone at Ravenseat.  Make another stop at the CB Inn for award-winning pub grub before retreating to your Yorkshire Dales cottage.

Sometimes, there is nothing better than a scenic road trip. We have been lucky enough to host Sam from Seen Through The Glass at one of our cottages in the Yorkshire Dales whilst he was taking a tour of North Yorkshire. Click to read more about his road trip.

The route through Buttertubs Pass is a breathtaking experience, perfect for guests staying in a cottage in the Dales. Winding between Hawes and Thwaite, this scenic route offers sweeping views of wild moorland, dramatic limestone cliffs, and deep valleys. The road itself is also thrilling—narrow and undulating—ideal for adventurers seeking a memorable day out.

Start in the charming market town of Hawes, where you can explore the award-winning Wensleydale Creamery or browse local shops. Ascend Buttertubs Pass, stopping at the Buttertubs themselves – deep limestone potholes formed thousands of years ago. It’s a great photo opportunity!

Further along, stop in Muker for a stroll through flower-filled meadows or a bite at the village tearoom. Whether it’s the scenery, heritage sites, or remoteness, this route will stay with you long after your holiday ends.

A quaint little Yorkshire village, Aysgarth is not to be missed. Just outside lies Aysgarth Falls, one of Wensleydale’s most-loved attractions.

Here, the River Ure crashes over three dramatic rocky steps – the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls. In wetter months, the spectacle is especially powerful. The National Park Centre offers a lovely café, renowned for its homemade cakes. Or bring a picnic and relax by the top falls, where benches and open space invite you to linger. The centre also provides guides to local walks.

For keen walkers, paths through woods lead to Carperby, West Burton, and Castle Burton, with riverside routes to Askrigg and Bainbridge. Though small, Aysgarth has plenty to offer: two pubs, bike hire, a tearoom, and a church with a stunning screen rescued from Jervaulx Abbey after Henry VIII’s ransacking.

Break away from the luxury of the roaring fire and visit the pretty village of Reeth. The many tea rooms are busy all year round, and a great stop off perhaps after a stroll along the river. Interesting craft shops produce traditional local products, preserving the heritage of the Yorkshire Dales. There is a spectacular large village green at the heart of the village where a market is held every Friday.

As you head up into the Yorkshire Dales, the scenery changes from kerbstones to drystone walls. Take a stroll over the Swing Bridge towards Grinton and along the River Swale, or day-long routes for the hardier walker to take in all the scenic views before returning to the luxury of your cottage in the Yorkshire Dales.

The Druid’s Temple isn’t a real temple but one of Yorkshire’s quirkiest 19th-century follies. Inspired by Stonehenge, it was built in 1820 by local landowner William Danby to ease unemployment, paying workers a shilling a day.

Despite the myth, it’s a peaceful spot for a picnic and family stroll—including the dog! Public footpaths lead to the main folly and through woodland scattered with standing stones. Various trails offer stunning views of Leighton Reservoir, open moorland, and the Yorkshire Dales.

Just a stone’s throw away is Masham, with its charming market square. Enjoy Brymor Ice Cream, afternoon tea at Swinton Park, or a pub lunch at the White Bear before heading back to your Yorkshire Dales cottage.