A brief resume of the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales gained it’s National Park status in 1956 and is one of the largest in the UK. As well as still being a vibrant working environment the wild and untamed landscape is perfect to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Covering 841 square miles it includes 3 counties North Yorkshire, Cumbria and Lancashire.

With a combination of Hills, Dales, Rivers and Waterfalls, Gorges, Potholes and Caves, Moorland, Limestone Pavements, deep green flower Meadows full of iconic Sheep framed by Drystone Walls, pretty Villages and historic Market Towns, it is truly magnificent.

The whole area is also a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest with it’s unique geology and diverse flora and fauna. Also as the countryside is mostly free from light pollution the Dales also boasts a Dark Sky status to enjoy the night skies as well as an annual festival held in February/March.

There’s such a variety of walking in the National Park and passing through it’s heart is the well known Dales Way. An 80 mile long distance walk starting in Ilkley and finishing in Bowness. You’ll walk alongside the River Ribble and Wharfe and pass through Littondale and Dentdale, just to pick out a few highlights.

The Yorkshire 3 Peaks stand proudly, Pen-y-Ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside and seem to follow you round as you circumnavigate the whole area. One of the best views is halfway round the Settle Loop with stunning vistas towards the 3 Peaks and the majectic Malham Tarn, England’s highest freshwater lake. The very popular 24 mile footpath which includes all 3 peaks is a challenge for many people if completed in under 12 hours.

The world famous Settle to Carlisle Railway is another highlight, 73 miles long passing over the Ribblehead Viaduct and your seat on the train will give you an insight into the beating  heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

There’s also a rich heritage with numerous castles and abbeys including Bolton Castle and Jervaulx Abbey. The welcome here is warm and the shops boast wonderful crafts and homemade produce and the cafes, coffee shops and traditional pubs have a wonderful selection of food and drink.

We think you should come and experience all the Dales has to offer and Langcliffe Park is a perfect touring holiday base within easy walking distance of very lively and popular Settle. Call or book online today.