The Wishing Well Apartment is a studio holiday cottage in Settle, offering relaxed self-catering accommodation within easy walking distance of the town centre. Tucked away with its own entrance, garden and private hot tub, this holiday rental suits couples wanting space, privacy and direct access to the Yorkshire Dales. Shops, cafés and pubs are just a few minutes away, while the station connects you to the famous Settle to Carlisle line. Whether you're heading out for a full day on the fells or staying close to town, it’s a comfortable and well-placed base for a Dales escape. On-site resident host available if needed while respecting guest privacy.
In an idyllic position on a quiet lane sandwiched between a river and mill pond, this comfy holiday cottage provides the perfect self-catering base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales and is within easy reach of the Southern Lakes and the Forest of Bowland. Superb walking from the front door including a pleasant mile walk to the market town of Settle with a great choice of eateries and shops. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
A delightful romantic dog-friendly cottage for two oozing character and charm in the pretty rural village of Fearby, just a mile and within walking distance of the popular market town of Masham with its great pubs, shops and two famous breweries. Perfect for exploring the Yorkshire Dales National Park and a good choice for those who like walking. Log burner for cosy nights.
One of two self-catering cottages full of character ideally placed in the very heart of Coverdale in the Yorkshire Dales with extensive views. A great location for walking and cycling, the cottages are cosy all year round with a log burner and biomass heating system. Both cottages offer metered electric vehicle charging sockets (type 2). Together the cottages can sleep groups of eight.
One of two self-catering cottages full of character ideally placed in the very heart of Coverdale in the Yorkshire Dales with extensive views. A great location for walking and cycling, the cottages are cosy all year round with a log burner and biomass heating system. Both cottages offer metered electric vehicle charging sockets (type 2). Together the cottages can sleep groups of eight.
A late 17th Century holiday cottage offering a comfy base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales, as well as the Lake District which is within driving distance. Sitting in Yorkshire's stunning National Park (yet within the boundaries of Cumbria), attractions are plentiful and walking locally is superb. The village has pubs for a meal out and a local pint of ale - all the right ingredients for a great holiday!
Patna Cottage is a traditional cosy Dales holiday cottage with log burner in the pretty tranquil village of Keld within the Yorkshire Dales National Park. With a hotel and pubs within walking distance, this is a great self-catering base for exploring the many attractions of the Dales.There is a small seating area at the front of the cottage with a bench which catches the morning sun [when there is sun]. Across the road is the communal orchard which has picnic benches that are available for guest to use, great in the evening with a glass of wine.
Perfectly positioned at the foot of the unspoilt Howgill Fells, within the Yorkshire Dales National Park and with easy access to the Lake District, The Byre at The Green Cumbria is a sanctuary for those seeking peace, luxury, and connection with nature. This stunning Victorian stone barn conversion is a destination in itself, offering easy access to a multitude of country walks, award winning local pubs, nearby nature reserves, and the rare delight of spotting native red squirrels right in the grounds. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
Luxurious rural barn conversion nestled at the foot of the fells in Cumbria, perfectly positioned at the edge of the Lake District. Impeccable styling, cosy retreat, log-burner, fabulous local walks from the door, dogs welcome, enclosed garden & two great pubs within walking distance. This fantastic holiday home sleeps 6 and is ideal for larger families or friends catching up. An additional single bed can be made up in the first floor super-king room for a child by arrangement. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
Swale View is a very comfortable detached stone cottage in Low Row near Reeth overlooking Swaledale Valley. Suitable for families, couples, friends and above all dogs. Sleeping five people in three bedrooms, king, queen and single, we love to have dogs visit with up to 4 staying. We have 2 log burners, Fibre Broadband, Secure Garden & storage and great views! A great pub with wonderful food & beer is only a few minutes walk away.
Located in the pretty village of Fearby within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Bramblewick Cottage is the perfect rural holiday retreat to explore the Yorkshire Dales. With two comfortable bedrooms, stunning countryside views and a wood burning stove for cosy nights in, this is an ideal self-catering cottage for either romantic couples or families wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. When you have finished admiring the stunning landscape there is plenty to keep you entertained with walking, cycling, pony trekking, rock climbing, golf and fishing all available close by.
Large Cumbrian Holiday Cottage sleeps 16 guests (or 20 using sofa beds), this 1794 grade 2 listed self-catering retreat is just perfect for large groups for milestone events, birthdays or anniversary celebrations & get togethers and is located within the Yorkshire Dales National Park and alongside the Lake District National Park with easy access to the attractions of both . Full of country charm, Fawcett Mill beautifully combines fabulous original features such as a old style range and log burner & open fires, wooden beams, & 4 poster beds with modern comforts including a sauna, seven bedrooms and internet access ensuring the whole party can relax in comfort. In a picturesque setting with water fall and a stream running through the grounds, this welcoming holiday rental for large groups is just perfect for celebrating milestone birthday, anniversaries, family events & for walking , cycling, relaxing and catching up with friends and family.
Fabulous 2 bedroom cottage in the centre of Skipton
For refined elegance and relaxed luxury, Elm Lodge is the cream of the crop of Cumbrian country houses. The Victorian villa is in the traditional English village of Ravenstonedale, less than half a mile from three excellent pubs and a nine-hole golf course. As the perfect holiday home for your group holiday, it comfortably sleeps up to 26 guests in 11 gorgeous bedrooms and boasts 15 acres of private grounds. The rural location is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts as you're close to the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines, and a wide variety of footpaths, bridleways and cycling routes cover the area.
The Reading Rooms was once the most important community building in Oughtershaw. It was built in the 1800s as a place where people could gather to share news, but it is now a gorgeous self-catering holiday cottage in the Yorkshire Dales. Rather than cover its rustic walls and humble origins, the owner has retained features like hand-hewn oak beams and the big stone fireplace, softening them with comfortable furnishings and attributes suited to 21st Century needs. There is a beck that runs along the bottom of the garden so children and pets should be supervised at all time.
Indulge yourself in the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales from the comfort of this 17th-Century manor house. Oughtershaw Hall is in a class of its own. Eight miles from Wensleydale, it sleeps 16 people in eight bedrooms and features four reception rooms, a games room, extensive grounds, and an indoor swimming pool and sauna. For all its pedigree and grandeur, the holiday rental feels like a home and is very well equipped for a group self-catering holiday with family or friends.
1 Teesdale Road is a comfortable and cosy holiday cottage with just a short walk over to the River Tees and into the market town of Barnard Castle and it's shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, and traditional markets. We have been awarded 4 star Visit England Gold awards in 2023, 2024 and 2025 ! The accommodation is suitable for six people in three bedrooms - two on the ground floor - with an open-plan living area and a patio with lovely views. The location is perfect for a walking or cycling holiday, and the self-catering property has a lockable garage so you can store bikes, SUPs, kayaks and other equipment. Bookings are available all year round for families and friends.
Hazel Brow House provides luxury accommodation in the quiet village of Low Row for up to 16 people. With magnificent views overlooking the river Swale and marvelous walks from the doorstep, this historic residence has been carefully renovated to provide up to date, modern faclities. The house is well equipped for fine dining, has a really comfy sitting room and snug with books, games, piano and smart TV (ideal for entertaining the children). The downstairs bootroom has laundry and drying facilities with an adjoining wet room should you need to shower off the outdoors! We have a 'Gastro Pub' in the village and Reeth and Gunnerside villages with their pubs and cafes are a 2.5 mile walk. The house is ideal for getting together with your favourite people for a short break or celebrating a milestone birthday or anniversay. We are a licenced wedding venue so get in touch for a viewing if you're planning that special day. The grounds are secure and we welcome well behaved dogs but do ask guests not to allow them upstairs or on the furniture.
Wake up to spectacular views across the Yorkshire Dales, spend your days walking from the doorstep, and end the evening beneath brilliant dark skies. Just two miles from Grassington, Moorside Farm Holiday Cottage is a spacious Yorkshire stone retreat on our family- managed farm, sleeping up to 8 guests in four comfortable bedrooms. Perfect for families and friends, this dog-friendly holiday cottage combines breathtaking scenery with genuine Yorkshire hospitality. Whether you're looking for memorable walks, peaceful relaxation or quality time together, you'll find it here.
One of an impressive collection of luxury award-winning holiday homes ideally position on the outskirts of Richmond - the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. If you are looking for a little luxury whilst on holiday, with the convenience of amenities and places for a meal out within walking distance, then this stylish lodge is likely to be a perfect choice. Lovely walks and cycle routes from the front door and a wealth of attractions within easy reach.
Popular towns in and around The Yorkshire Dales:
AskriggDentdaleGrassingtonHawesIngletonLeyburnReethRichmondSedberghSettleSkiptonWensleydaleSome local suggestions:
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Where to Stay in The Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales is home to some of the prettiest and unspoilt scenery in the UK. It is hard to narrow down just a few beautiful spots but here are our top few places to stay.
The traditional village of Grassington with its with stone buildings, cafés, shops and cosy pubs is always a popular choice. Surrounded by stunning countryside it is a great spot for walking and enjoying the spectacular views. Linton Falls, located on the River Wharfe is particularly dramatic after heavy rainfall, or just enjoy a gentle meander along the river.
Another great spot is Malham, close to Settle and Skipton, which is famous for its impressive scenery including Malham Cove and Malham Tarn. The picturesque market town of Skipton, known as the ‘gateway to the Yorkshire Dales’, offers some great eateries, alongside a market four days a week and many other little boutiques. A trip to the ancient Skipton Castle is also a great way to learn more about the town's history and heritage.
Hawes is a great place to experience traditional Yorkshire Dales life, with local shops, cafés and walking routes. Visit the Wensleydale Creamery or be wowed by the impressive Aysgarth Falls.
Moving closer to Cumbria is the quaint farming community of Dentdale. It is an area steeped in history, with remnants from the Vikings, who settled there in the 10th Century. The Dent Brewery is well worth a visit for the guided tours and award-winning ales.
When to visit the Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales offers a huge landscape, meaning there is something for everyone here all year round. Summers are usually mild to warm with the occasional hotter day. The days are longer giving you more time to explore the great outdoors at a leisurely pace. Spring offers a mix of sunny days and cooler, wet weather. This is a great time to visit for those who plan on getting active as it is the perfect temperatures for hiking, biking or other outdoor activities.
Many describe the climate in the Yorkshire Dales in winter as ‘moody’ with the changing weather consisting of rain, snow and wild, windy days. With a chance of snow, this is a great time to see places like the beautiful North Yorkshire Moors dusted in white. It is also an excellent time to visit quaint villages such as Settle, Hawes and Leyburn as they host cosy Christmas markets.
What to do in the Yorkshire Dales
If you enjoy the outdoors the Yorkshire Dales is the perfect holiday destination for you! The hundreds of footpaths and trails passing through beautiful countryside makes it a walkers paradise. Take a leisurely stroll along rivers, hike through valleys and across rolling hills, or trek up more strenuous peaks such as Mount Ingleborough near Ingleton. Malham Cove, Malham Tarn and Aysgarth Falls are all well-known for their impressive scenery, whilst the quiet country lanes around Grassington and Wharfedale are also perfect for a day out on the bike.
The Yorkshire Dales is also home to many charming villages and historic places that are worth exploring. The popular village of Grassington is a great spot to while away an afternoon, or explore the local shops and enjoy the surrounding countryside near Hawes. Visitors can also explore historic castles and museums as well as shops and restaurants in the market town of Skipton. Don’t forget to sample the local food – no trip to Yorkshire is complete without a cup of Yorkshire tea and a full roast including Yorkshire pudding!
Adventure seekers will have no problem getting their adrenaline fix here. Go climbing at Malham Cove, caving in Ingleton, canoeing on the River Ure and mountain biking in the Gisburn Forest. Whatever you choose to do on holiday in the Yorkshire Dales you can be assured of a warm welcome and an unforgettable experience surrounded by stunning scenery and beautiful countryside.
How to get to the Yorkshire Dales
There are several ways to travel to the Yorkshire Dales. Its excellent public transport links in many of its towns and villages mean you can journey by train or bus from numerous major UK cities. There are railway stations in towns around the Yorkshire Dales, including Skipton, which is an important transport hub for the area. From Skipton, visitors can use local buses, taxis or other forms of transport to reach villages and attractions within the Dales. Buses also connect several towns and villages, although services can be less frequent in more rural areas, so it is a good idea to plan your journey before travelling.
If you are travelling by car, the Yorkshire Dales is easy to reach from nearby cities such as Leeds, Bradford and York. Driving also gives you the flexibility to visit the many different villages and attractions spread across the national park, meaning you can travel between places at your own pace. The journey also gives you the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful countryside and scenic roads as you get closer to the Dales.
Once you arrive in the area, walking, cycling and local buses are useful ways to explore the countryside. Overall, travelling by car is probably the most convenient option for exploring lots of different parts of the Yorkshire Dales, while trains and buses can be a more environmentally friendly choice.
The Yorkshire Dales FAQs
How many days do you need in the Yorkshire Dales?
If you only have limited time then you can certainly get a taste of the Yorkshire Dales in three or four days. This gives you enough time to experience some of the area’s most beautiful scenery without feeling rushed. In three days, you could explore highlights such as Malham Cove, Gordale Scar the Ribblehead Viaduct and the charming villages of Hawes and Grassington. You’ll also have time to enjoy a few walks and stop at some of the traditional pubs and cafés along the way.
If you enjoy walking or prefer a slower pace a week would be ideal. This would give you enough time to explore more of the Dales and venture into quieter areas such as Swaledale and Wensleydale. It also gives you plenty of opportunities for longer hikes as well as time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
What are the Yorkshire Dales best known for?
The Yorkshire Dales is best known for its vast outdoor space and spectacular scenery. With towering peaks, stretching moorland and rolling countryside, it is a true adventurer's paradise. Many visit here to attempt the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. This consists of climbing Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough in a specific time frame.
Popular beauty spots include Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, Aysgarth Falls and the Ribblehead Viaduct, whilst places such as Hawes, Grassington, Reeth and Settle have a classic Yorkshire character, with stone cottages and historic buildings. Any cheese lovers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the Wensleydale Creamery for the ultimate cheese experience!
Can you get around the Yorkshire Dales without a car?
Yes, you can get around the Yorkshire Dales without a car, although it does require a little more planning. The area is served by local buses connecting some of the main towns and villages, while trains provide access to places such as Settle and Ribblehead on the scenic Settle–Carlisle railway. Walking is also a great way to explore the Dales, with many villages and attractions connected by footpaths.
It is however worth bearing in mind that public transport can be limited in the more rural areas, particularly on evenings and Sundays, so you won’t have the same flexibility as you would with a car. For a car-free holiday, it’s best to base yourself in a well-connected village such as Settle, Skipton, Hawes or Grassington, and plan your walks around the available bus and train services.
Is the Yorkshire Dales a good destination for families to visit?
Yes, the Yorkshire Dales is a great destination for outdoorsy families to visit. If you are looking to escape busy resorts in favour of a peaceful countryside holiday it is hard to beat the Yorkshire Dales. Younger children can enjoy exploring streams, spotting animals and playing outdoors, while older children and teenagers can try longer hikes, cycling and other outdoor activities. Family-friendly attractions such as Bolton Abbey, the Wensleydale Railway and the Forbidden Corner also provide alternative family friendly days out.
Is the Yorkshire Dales dog friendly?
Yes, the Yorkshire Dales is a fantastic destination to take your dog on holiday. There are hundreds of miles of footpaths and trails to explore and many villages and towns also have dog-friendly cafés and pubs. Independent Cottages also has a large selection of dog friendly cottages for you and your four legged friends to stay whilst on holiday in the Yorkshire Dales.
Yorkshire Dales Inspiration