Top 5 Yorkshire Dales Tours: Sightseeing & Cruises Explored

The Yorkshire Dales National Park, this amazing expanse of the north of England, really provides a knockout backdrop for all manner of adventures. From taking a peaceful cruise to discovering panoramic views, that’s actually something for pretty much everyone. So, we are going to check out five of the very best tours and sightseeing opportunities, that way you can make the absolute most of your visit. I want you to grab a cuppa, that is to say, sit back and get to grips with how to max out your Yorkshire Dales trip!

1. The Wensleydale Railway Experience

Okay, so let’s kick this thing off with a ride through history. The Wensleydale Railway is almost more than just a train journey; it could be called a rolling museum. You, or like your family, will wind through the beautiful Wensleydale, all snuggled in those heritage carriages. The views really are great, as a matter of fact, it gives you a fresh look at the Dales. The railway actually does run for around 22 miles between Northallerton West and Redmire, and also calls at other stations along the way, for example, Bedale and Leyburn.

Along the way, you are going to be stopping off at quaint towns. And I mean you can properly dig in to the local life of the Dales. Apparently, special events often do happen, as I was saying, things such as afternoon tea trips and also themed rides. That would mean there are reasons for repeat visits. Too, it’s worth actually checking the schedule online before you turn up.

Why it’s very good: So, this mixes the area’s background with fantastic views. It’s almost great for pretty much all ages.

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2. Aysgarth Falls: Discovering Natural Beauty

You see, Aysgarth Falls isn’t a single drop; it’s very much a sequence of breathtaking waterfalls cascading down the River Ure. So it’s a place that truly shows what the Dales does best in the natural stakes. This area got famous in films, as a matter of fact, it did, and so, you see these falls a whole bunch of times as backdrops, including ‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’. Too, it’s almost a popular picnicking and walking area.

The falls aren’t hard to actually get to. And it is very much an easy amble, if that’s okay. Then it is possible to discover varied viewpoints providing fantastic photo opportunities. Clearly, during times when the river level is high, it’s quite a spectacle, actually, with the water cascading everywhere! It can be slightly dangerous too though, so still exercise some degree of common sense.

Also, Aysgarth is in the middle of a whole load of well marked paths, honestly, great if like your planning any longer hikes.

Why it’s very good: So, a very good choice for nature lovers, but even better, its stunning setting provides a chill-out break, so to speak.

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3. Exploring Malham Cove and Gordale Scar

Then we’ve got Malham Cove. Now this enormous curved limestone formation, honestly, it will absolutely knock your socks off. I mean, imagine standing at its foot. That is to say looking up at that huge cliff face, yeah? On top of that there’s the limestone pavement. That really is a unique landscape you are not going to soon forget.

And not too far away, there’s Gordale Scar, a really dramatic gorge, honest. With waterfalls and sheer cliffs all close up, Gordale is like the crazy cool big brother to the more subdued beauty over at Malham. Walking between both actually really offers this complete peek into the Dales’ natural artistic leanings, that is, they both make it very plain to see.

Why it’s very good: Basically, geology fans like your and families that enjoy some walking might be interested, because its spectacular landscapes tell very unique stories. That means this walk should be right at the very top of the agenda for folks keen to explore.

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4. The Forbidden Corner: A Unique Day Out

A slightly offbeat diversion could be what some people need. You see, the Forbidden Corner might actually provide exactly that, namely, a labyrinth of follies, tunnels, and gardens set within a four-acre plot. This spot really tries to ignite your brain. So, in some respects it provides excitement for children and the more creatively inclined alike.

Okay, the park demands that you book, alright. That means the place doesn’t get very rammed. And so each discovery feels actually properly rewarding. Obviously, expect weird statues, hidden pathways, but even better than that, tons of ‘a-ha’ moments. If you need anything completely unlike something you will find in the National Park, honest, this is right up your street!

Why it’s very good: Great when something more quirky appeals. Too it’s a fab thing for getting the children interested and engaged in stuff that, naturally, they may possibly forget about quickly!

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5. Ribblehead Viaduct and Three Peaks Circular Walk

Last up, so, the Ribblehead Viaduct. The landscape here, in short, demonstrates not only natural beauty, but very much human ingenuity. Also, the structure itself is, like, quite a sight! Walking round it provides you fantastic photographs, and in that case it offers you a glimpse into the industrial legacy that carved out the Yorkshire Dales.

You, similar to walking fans, would probably relish the Three Peaks circular walk which passes right near the viaduct. That being said, be ready for the landscape underfoot! Too, you are going to discover a real sense of completion from the trails you hike.

Why it’s very good: So, a magnificent piece of old infrastructure joined with pretty strenuous, amazing, hikes that in a way tick all the boxes.

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