Days Out In The Yorkshire Dales This Summer

For adventure lovers, there are walks and hidden waterfalls to discover; for history lovers, there are ruins and stately homes nearby to explore; and for those looking for retail therapy, there are a selection of bustling local towns. Read on to see our top summer days in the Yorkshire Dales.

Bolton Abbey Estate

Steeped in history, from the abbey to the famous stepping stones, Bolton Abbey is a majestic day out for all the family.

There’s plenty to explore, whether that’s wandering through the ruins, beside the river, or through the moorland and along the woodland trails.

Make time for a pit-stop at The Cavendish Pavilion for a delicious slice of homemade cake, or call at the Brasserie at The Devonshire Arms Hotel for a selection of sandwiches and crowd-pleasing mains. Or, for something a little unique, head over to Billy Bob’s Parlour for an American dining experience with milkshakes and every kind of ice cream flavour you can imagine.

Plan your visit to Bolton Abbey: Bolton Abbey

Harewood House

As one of the Treasure Houses of England, Harewood House does not disappoint. Built in the 18th Century, the House bursts with history in every room. It features thousands of artefacts from around the world, intricately painted ceilings embellished with gold, and an art collection that could easily rival the finest in Britain. Once you have made your way around the House there is still so much more to see, by exploring the vast 100-acre gardens and grounds surrounding the house. Boasting a lake, a walled garden, and various plants from around the world, a stroll around the gardens is the perfect way to enjoy the warmer weather in beautiful surroundings.

Plan your visit to Harewood House and Gardens: Harewood House

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden

Hidden in a secluded valley lies a Cistercian Abbey ruin, a Georgian water garden, an Elizabethan Hall, a Gothic Church, and a parkland full of roaming deer. There are tours available every Saturday and Sunday around the Abbey to help you learn about its history and discover the stories of the monks who found a simple life in this impressive Abbey. The Studley Royal Water Garden is what makes this estate a World Heritage Site. Magical moon ponds and cascades intertwine with plants and shrubs from around the world, and hidden bridges, temples, and ethereal statues can be found throughout. With walks all over the 600-acre Estate, there is plenty to explore.

Learn more: National Trust, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden

Harrogate

A Victorian spa and historic market town, Harrogate provides the perfect base for a varied holiday. After a morning browsing the designer shops and independent boutiques, the nearby Valley Gardens is a wonderful selection of themed gardens and a stunning dahlia border. At nearby RHS Harlow Carr the beautifully landscaped gardens, garden centre and tearoom will delight gardening enthusiasts. Harrogate also has many cafes, restaurants and tea rooms to provide respite during a summer day, including the famous Betty’s Tearooms which can be the perfect place to watch the world go by.

Learn more about Harrogate and plan your visit: Visit Harrogate

Skipton and Skipton Castle

Skipton is a small, friendly town with nostalgic cobbled side streets and a medieval Castle in its centre. With plenty of shops to browse, from fashion brands to independent boutiques and antique shops. Skipton Castle is over 900 years old, and visitors can explore every corner of the history-rich castle including its grounds and church. Hidden behind the castle is Skipton Woods, a delightful woodland full of walks and trails just off the high street. Skipton’s famous market takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays 10am to 4pm which turns the town into a bustling place full of independent businesses providing people with local goods, handcrafted items, antiques, and so much more. With cafes, restaurants, and plenty of pie shops dotted around the town, it’s the perfect place to explore.

Discover more: Welcome to Skipton

Valley of Desolation and Simon’s Seat

The Valley of Desolation is named after a great storm over Barden Fell in 1826. Since then, nature has long repaired the damage and in its place is an incredible walk that takes you through a tranquil valley and up to a beautiful waterfall that looks like it’s straight from a fairytale. The walk itself continues past the waterfall and up to Simon’s Seat, a rocky outcrop 485 meters above sea level. We’d recommend visiting on a clear day to take in the breath-taking views.

Please note, dogs are not permitted on this trail.

Plan your walk: Bolton Abbey, Valley of Desolation and Simon’s Seat

Malham Cove

The four-mile walk from Malham village offers spectacular landscapes with views from around Malham Cove. Formed after the last ice age, this historic spectacle has attracted many visitors over the years.

At the beginning of the walk, you will come across Malham Beck passing through a woodland to Janet’s Foss waterfall which leads to Gordale Scar, a gorge of majestic limestone cliffs. The trail then continues to take you to the heart of the vast amphitheatre-shaped structure of Malham Cove. If you are feeling energetic enough, you can continue to climb the 400 uneven steps to the top of the cove and meet its famous rugged limestone pavement which opens up to a never-ending view of the incredible Yorkshire Dales landscape.

Plan your visit: Yorkshire Dales National Park, Malham Cove

Other Walks

With so many incredible walks throughout the Yorkshire Dales and much to explore, we’ve collated a list of our favourite walks throughout the Yorkshire Dales. Check out our journal: Top 8 Yorkshire Dales Walks here.

Yorkshire Dales Holidays – Where To Stay?

Whether it is stepping out into the countryside to discover sensational views, exploring historical sites, or strolling around the streets of bustling towns, The Yorkshire Dales has it all.

If you would like to extend your adventures and find somewhere to stay, our hotels and cottages in Yorkshire are perfect for a countryside break.