Camping in the Yorkshire Dales

5 easy walks in the Yorkshire Dales

The valleys, hills and moors of the Yorkshire Dales are etched with miles of rolling footpaths, and what it lacks in coastal scenery it makes up for in magnificent moorlands. As a result, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is home to some of the greatest walks in Europe.

1. Aysgarth Falls

Enjoy a woodland walk in Wensleydale, where on your journey you will experience the spectacular three waterfalls on the River Ure at Aysgarth. The route is extended to cross pleasant farmland around the picturesque village of Carperby. The walk is under an hour's drive from our Barnard Castle Club Site.

2. Gordale Scar and Malham Cove

To truly experience the magnificence of cliffs and gorges in the Dales, make sure you head to Malham for the day to visit Gordale Scar and Malham Cove. During your walk, you will encounter the hidden gem Janet’s Fosse, a cascading waterfall that enters a glistening emerald pool at the base. As you continue your journey, you will reach Gordale Scar, a truly breathtaking gorge and one of the Dales oldest and most fascinating natural landmarks. The final attraction is the imposing limestone cliff of Malham Cove. Both Malham Cove and Gordale Scar have been popular amongst visitors since the 1700’s.

A fun fact for all Harry Potter fans, Malham Cove is a location featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1!

3. Ilkley Moor

If you fancy a stroll around an enchanting moor with plenty of wonderful views, Ilkley Moor is the perfect destination for you. Walking the summit of Ilkley Moor means you will encounter popular sight-seeing spots such as Ilkley and Ilkley Crag.

4. Barnard Castle and the River Tees

If you decide to stay at our Barnard Castle Club Site, there is a circular walk from the market town of Barnard Castle. While the walk may seem like a simple stroll, don’t be deceived, there are plenty of weird and wonderful pieces of history to uncover, including an enormous chateau, old mills, churches and of course, Barnard Castle itself. While exploring the area around Barnard Castle, it’s hard to miss the captivating nature and wildlife. Wildflower rich hay meadows dominate the Dale bottoms, the lush pastures of the moorlands providing the habitat for many rare plants and birds. Look out for black grouse, yellow wagtail and red squirrel surrounding our Barnard Castle Campsite in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

5. Hawes and Sedbusk Walk

The Hawes and Sedbusk trail is a relaxed circular walk, great for a family day out. You will pass some wonderful views, including the loveliest river in Yorkshire, the River Ure and several charming villages in Wensleydale. There is also the option to stop off for some delicious refreshments at one of the village’s country pubs.

Combining culture with family fun

The Yorkshire Dales are rich in cultural associations, Wuthering Heights, Emmerdale, Robin Hood – Prince of Thieves and All Creatures Great and Small were filmed here! Here’s a list of places for the whole family to visit in the Yorkshire Dales and immerse yourself in culture and history.

1. Barnard Castle

Barnard Castle in Teeside, named after the castle around which it grew, is a historic market town and home to our Barnard Castle Club Site. The castle itself is a popular and vibrant attraction, hosting plenty of annual events and activities. The town has good amenities with plenty of shops to pick up essentials. The Bowes Museum is worthy of a visit to view the nationally renowned art collection and one of Britain’s most extensive collections of ceramics. Egglestone Hall Gardens are great on a fair-weather day to learn all about the secret gardens of the North.

2. Wensleydale Creamery

Calling all cheese lovers. Situated in the magical little market town of Hawes, Wensleydale Creamery is a cheese manufacturer with a fascinating story to tell! With over a 1000 years of heritage and home to award-winning flagship cheese experience, it is a delightful and tasty day out.

3. Dales Countryside Museum

This fascinating museum is based in the old railway at Hawes, and authentically tells the story of the people and landscape of the Yorkshire Dales. From getting crafty in the Creation Station and climbing aboard the carriages to perusing the gift shop, you are guaranteed an interactive day of fun for the whole family at the Dales Countryside Museum.

4. Holme Open Farm

If you fancy a dreamy day of river fishing, bird watching or a picnic with a riverside view, Holme Open Farm is the ideal spot. Based in the beautiful Luna Valley, enjoy eating your lunch whilst watching as the Luna River gently passes through the lush pastures of Luna Valley. There is also a children’s play area with swings and slides.

5. The Forbidden Corner

An ideal attraction to take children, the Forbidden Corner is an intriguing and mysterious combination of Victorian follies, pathways to nowhere and underground lairs.

6. Bolton Castle

Head south to the heart of Wensleydale. Here you’ll find Bolton Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress with fantastic views over the National Park. Enjoy the Falconry Experience, Wild Boar Park, Medieval Archery Demonstrations and Bee Keeping display.