A weekend in Yorkshire Dales
Green valleys, limestone scars and drystone walls
- Independent UK guide
- Free to use
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- Updated October 2026
The Yorkshire Dales is a landscape of green valleys, stone barns, waterfalls and limestone cliffs. It is a national park known for the Three Peaks, famous viaducts and villages such as Hawes, where you can visit the cheese creamery.
It is excellent for walkers, cyclists and anyone who loves a countryside pub.
Check prices for a weekend in Yorkshire Dales
Top attractions in Yorkshire Dales
Malham Cove and Gordale Scar
A limestone cliff and gorge reached on a classic circular walk.
Ribblehead Viaduct
A 24-arch railway viaduct that crosses the moor.
Bolton Abbey
Ruined priory on the River Wharfe with riverside paths.
Hawes and Wensleydale
A market town and the home of Wensleydale cheese.
Aysgarth Falls
A series of waterfalls on the River Ure.
Best things to do in Yorkshire Dales
Guides to the activities most people plan a weekend around.
Malham Cove and Gordale Scar walk
A circular walk from Malham village takes in Malham Cove, an 80-metre limestone cliff with a clints-and-grikes pavement on top, and Gordale Scar, a dramatic gorge with a waterfall. Allow 3 to 4 hours.
Settle to Carlisle railway
The Settle to Carlisle line is one of England's most scenic railway journeys, crossing the Yorkshire Dales and the Eden Valley over 73 miles. Allow about 1.5 hours one way.
Hot tub lodge weekend
A lodge or cottage with a private hot tub is a popular way to enjoy a weekend away, whether you are with a partner, family or friends. Allow a weekend.
Best areas to stay in Yorkshire Dales
Settle
A market town on the Settle-Carlisle railway.
Malham
A walkers' village by the cove.
Hawes
A friendly town in upper Wensleydale.
Best hotels in Yorkshire Dales
These are well-established hotels often recommended for the area, listed in no particular order. They are not paid placements. Check current ratings, prices and availability before you book.
The Devonshire Arms Hotel, Bolton Abbey
The Angel Inn, Hetton
Prices change daily, so check a few sites. For dog-friendly or quiet stays, use the pet and review filters. These are affiliate links.
Best time to visit Yorkshire Dales
Late spring to early autumn for walking. Autumn colours are stunning.
Seasons that suit Yorkshire Dales well: spring, summer, autumn.
Estimated budget for a weekend in Yorkshire Dales
| Hotel or B&B, per night for two | £90–£150 |
|---|---|
| Food and drink, per day for two | £55–£85 |
| Activities and extras for the weekend | £30–£90 |
| Estimated total, 2 people, 2 nights, excluding travel | £320–£560 |
Mid-range destination. These are rough 2026 estimates and vary by season and room type. Add the cost of getting there. For a personalised figure, use the BritBreaks finder.
Getting to Yorkshire Dales
- From Leeds: About 1.5 hours by car.
- From Manchester: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car.
- From London: About 4 hours by train to Skipton or Settle with changes.
Journey times are rough guides. Check live train and road times before you travel.
A sample weekend in Yorkshire Dales
- Friday evening: Arrive, settle in and have dinner in Settle.
- Saturday: Start with Malham Cove and Gordale Scar, then Ribblehead Viaduct. In the afternoon, head to Bolton Abbey.
- Sunday: Visit Hawes and Wensleydale or Aysgarth Falls, then head home.
Packing list for Yorkshire Dales
Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
More kit guides: Walking gear Wet-weather gear Dog travel gear
Good to know
- Mobile signal is patchy, so download maps in advance.
- Several car parks fill early on weekends.
Yorkshire Dales weekend FAQs
Do I need a car in the Dales?
A car is easiest, but the Settle-Carlisle railway and Dales buses reach several villages.
Is it good for dogs?
Yes, but keep dogs on leads near sheep, especially in lambing season.
More weekend ideas
England's first national park, with moors, dales and stately homes
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Lake DistrictCumbriaEngland's biggest national park: lakes, fells and cosy villages
Explore more: Best weekend breaks from Manchester and the North West · Best weekend breaks in Yorkshire and the North East · Best countryside weekend breaks in the UK · Best dog-friendly weekend breaks in the UK
Browse popular weekend activities or use the BritBreaks finder to match a weekend to your budget and travel time.
Last reviewed October 2026. Please check opening times and prices with each attraction before you go.