Things to do in Yorkshire Dales
Discover the best attractions and experiences Yorkshire Dales has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient fortresses, abbey ruins and historic sites that dot the Yorkshire Dales scenery.
Bolton Castle
A well-preserved medieval fortress near Castle Bolton with towers and crenellations overlooking the valley.
Fountains Abbey
Impressive Cistercian abbey ruins set within a vast UNESCO World Heritage site near Ripon.
Jervaulx Abbey
Romantic ruin of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey nestled in a tranquil valley.
Museums
Delve into local heritage and cheese-making heritage at the region’s museums.
Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre
Discover how Wensleydale cheese is made and sample the product in Hawes.
The Dales Countryside Museum
Exhibitions on rural life, industry and the landscape of the Dales.
Bowes Museum
A grand collection of paintings, decorative arts and ceramics in Barnard Castle.
Religious Monuments
Search for historic churches and abbey ruins that reveal the spiritual past of the Dales.
Rievaulx Abbey
Stunning ruined Cistercian abbey set along a peaceful river valley.
Jervaulx Abbey
Picturesque abbey ruins with well-preserved remains and serene grounds.
Bolton Abbey Church
Historic church ruins within the Bolton Abbey estate overlooking the Wharfe.
National & Theme Parks
Vast landscapes and family-friendly thrills are within reach in and around the Dales.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Expansive uplands, limestone dales and sweeping river valleys ideal for long walks.
North York Moors National Park
Moors and dramatic coastline offering stunning viewpoints and walks.
Lightwater Valley Theme Park
Family-friendly rides and attractions near Ripon for a day of fun.
Neighborhoods
Base yourself in charming villages and market towns that make the Dales feel homey.
Grassington
A picturesque Wharfedale village with cobbled lanes, independent shops and riverside walks.
Hawes
Historic market town known for Wensleydale Creamery and scenic surrounding trails.
Reeth
A classic Wensleydale village with stone cottages, tea rooms and riverside paths.
Free Things to Do
Many of the Dales’ highlights can be enjoyed without an entry fee.
Malham Cove & Tarn walk
A dramatic limestone cliff formation with a scenic, easy-to-moderate loop.
Aysgarth Falls
Three-tier waterfall with forested banks and accessible trails.
Ribblehead Viaduct viewpoint walk
Iconic railway viaduct with sweeping valley views and photo opportunities.
Gastronomy
Taste the best of the Dales with local cheeses, ales and markets.
Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre
Learn and taste Wensleydale cheese in Hawes.
Black Sheep Brewery
Historic Masham brewery offering tours and tastings of Yorkshire ales.
Skipton Market
Historic market in Skipton offering local produce and regional specialties.
Nightlife
Cozy pubs and warm inns provide a true Dales evening vibe.
The Devonshire Arms, Bolton Abbey
Traditional pub with river views and seasonal events.
The Old Hall Inn, Grassington
Historic pub with real ales and regular live music.
The Golden Lion, Pateley Bridge
Classic village pub offering hearty meals and a friendly atmosphere.
Entertainment
Arts, concerts and events add color to the Dales experience.
Grassington Festival
Annual arts and entertainment festival with music, talks and performances.
Bowes Museum (concerts & events)
Museum hosts regular exhibitions, concerts and special events.
Skipton Town Hall events
Venues around Skipton host theatre, cinema and cultural events.
Sports
Outdoor activity is the heart of the Dales, with plenty of ways to move.
Three Peaks Challenge
A popular challenge to hike the three peaks of the area in one day.
Dales Way
A long-distance path through the Dales for epic day hikes or multi-day treks.
Ingleborough Caving
Adventure caving near Ingleborough for those seeking underground exploration.
Off the Track
Strange and delightful experiences beyond the usual sights.
Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Festival
Seasonal stargazing events highlighting the area’s clear night skies.
Geocaching in Swaledale
Treasure-hunt-style fun across the hills using GPS coordinates.
Ingleborough Cave
Explore a dramatic underground limestone cave system with guided tours.