Discover the Dales: our favourite places to stay in the Yorkshire Dales
The glorious Yorkshire Dales have been officially protected as a National Park since the 50s. Today, its many miles of open moors, sheltered valleys, steep hills and quaint villages are a delight for cyclists, walkers, nature lovers and peace seekers. Come to take on the Three Peaks Challenge, climbing Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-Y-Ghent; splash in rivers, lakes and waterfalls; browse antique shops and Farmer’s Markets before returning to this handful of special places to stay in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Traddock, Settle
This gorgeous small country-house hotel is perfectly placed for the magical Dales with delicious dining, open fires and pretty gardens. You enter through the drawing room – crackling fire, pretty art, cavernous sofas. Potter about and find polished wood in the dining room, panelled walls in the breakfast room, then William Morris wallpaper in the sitting room bar, where you can sip a pint of Skipton ale while playing Scrabble. Bedrooms are gorgeous, some coolly contemporary, others warmly traditional.
The brave can take on the local Three Peaks Challenge – Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-Y-Ghent offer a tough 26-mile clamber, or hop on the Settle to Carlisle train for a breathtakingly beautiful ride through the Dales. Return for afternoon tea in the white-washed sitting room.
“A review for one of the loveliest places we have stayed – and we have been using Sawday’s for years! The setting is delightful, food exceptional and the staff were so friendly, welcoming and kind.” – Guest, Helen
Stow House, Leyburn
This B&B is great fun with delightful owners and unique style in the lush landscape of ‘All Creatures Great and Small’. Past ancient stone walls and fields of lambs you reach sleepy Aysgarth and this dignified rectory. Step inside to find Shoreditch pizzazz! Sarah and Phil have swapped the world of London advertising for a dream house in the Dales; she does cocktails, he does breakfasts and their take on Victoriana is inspiring.
Floors, bannisters and sash windows have been restored, stairs carpeted in plush red, sofas covered in zinging velvet. Bathrooms are incredible, bedrooms are soothing and the papier-mâché hare’s head above the bar says it all. Stunning walks from the door take you along the River Ure to Aysgarth Falls, along the moors and up to the top of Penhill spotting much birdlife.
“This is a real gem. The room was magnificent with beautiful views and the location perfect for walking and visiting places.” – Guest, Rebecca
Hideaway Cottage, Fearby
An 18th-century stone cottage sitting happy in the glorious Yorkshire Dales with superb dog walks from the door. You’re greeted by soft music, golden lamplight, the wood burner waiting to be lit and some local biscuits and chocolates to have with your tea, or a glass of wine from Corks & Cases in Masham. The sitting room is a grand spot for a quiet doze with comfy throws, a Bose sound system and books to read.
Or burrow down in the little garden room with its own wood burner, more books and views of the Dales by day, brilliant stars at night. The kitchen is quaint and well stocked with basics and it’s an easy walk across fields into Masham for market days on Wednesday and Saturday. Or if you’re too tired to cook, the Black Swan is nearby with a menu of pub classics.
“Hideaway Cottage is a truly delightful place for a relaxing, care free getaway in the Yorkshire Dales” – Inspector, Caroline
Mill Fosse Cottage, Hawes
Follow the babbling Mill Race to a quiet corner of Hawes to find this beautifully converted slice of Wensleydale history. The old Mill Fosse Cottage, with its blend of quirky touches, thick stone walls, flagged floors and exposed beams, is a snug, stylish retreat. Within a couple of minutes, you’re in the heart of Hawes. Visit the Wensleydale Creamery and Museum, browse the antique shops or have a lazy lunch by the river.
The Dales are ready to be explored, or you can take the short walk to Hardraw Falls and the pub next door. Two people can spread out a bit here. Cook in the sociable kitchen, eat in the dining hall then relax in the upstairs sitting room in front of the wood burner.
“A really enjoyable stay. We discovered the Muker Art Gallery and tea room which is worth a visit. The White Hart for dinner never disappoints.” – Guests, Andrew & Deana
Beck Hall, Malham
Malham is a mecca for walkers, with the famous cove just under a mile away and Janet’s Foss, Gordale scar and the Tarn not much further. This is some of the most stunning and remote countryside in the UK and it’s great for cycling as well as striding. Wild swimmers will be happy too with rivers, lakes and waterfalls to hurl themselves into.
Dogs and their owners will feel instantly at home here with either Andy or Louise at the helm, aided by a happy team of staff. Huge sliding glass doors allow guests to spill out from the restaurant into the pretty streamside garden after a wonderful plant-based feast where every dish is fresh, seasonal and from the Dales.
“A really lovely place to stay. All the staff want you to have a great time. We were made to feel very welcome with our dog.” – Guest, Sally
