Yorkshire Dales: Day Trips and Tours from York

One of the largest green spaces in the United Kingdom, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is home to a smattering of picturesque villages, nestled between steep hills and open meadows.

The area is known for its charming tea rooms, thundering waterfalls and far-stretching history, meaning there’s something to excite every traveler.

Yorkshire Dales day trips from York are both easy to arrange and a must for anyone who wants to see what lies beyond the bustling streets of York, and embrace the tranquil country air.

Here's all you need to know about Yorkshire Dales day trips, one of the most exciting day trips from York.

How to get to the Yorkshire Dales from York?

The Yorkshire Dales span more than 2,000 square kilometers across North Yorkshire in the North of England. The Aysgarth Falls visitor center, which is where many enter into the park, is approximately 90 kilometers northwest of York.

From York to the Yorkshire Dales by car

The journey to the Yorkshire Dales by car takes just under 1.5 hours and begins by heading west out of York along the A59. You’ll then turn off onto the A1 northbound, which you’ll follow as far as Leeming Bar. Then, you’ll utilize the A684, which leads you into the national park.

From York to the Yorkshire Dales by public transport

Those without access to a car can instead make the jaunt to the Yorkshire Dales via public transport. Trains connect several of the villages in the region with the city and are a reliable way of navigating the dales. Alternatively, you can catch one of the available coaches or buses that depart from the city regularly.

However, you may find that hopping between villages in this way is time-consuming and instead choose a pre-arranged day trip.

Guided tour to the Yorkshire Dales from York

Alternatively, book a guided excursion to the Yorkshire Dales and let someone else take care of the transportation details for you. These organized day trips typically last between 8 and 9 hours, leaving York around 9 AM.

If you participate in a group trip, you’ll meet your guide at a centrally-located landmark in the city, such as a renowned hotel. However, if you opt for a private tour, you’ll benefit from a convenient hotel pickup service.

What is the typical itinerary?

The itinerary of each Yorkshire Dales day trip is unique, however, all excursions share similarities. After meeting your guide, either at an easy-to-reach destination in the center of York or in your hotel lobby, you’ll set off toward the national park, listening to an engaging commentary from your driver as you pass by several places of interest.

You’ll travel between villages, gaining a feel for the region and admiring the breathtaking scenery that this corner of the country is famed for. You’ll usually have free time at each stop, enabling you to follow your own interests and discover iconic attractions.

Alternatively, if participating in a themed television tour, you can expect to be accompanied around each destination by your local guide who will educate you on different filming destinations.

After visiting the most celebrated landmarks and medieval villages within the national park, you’ll finish your Yorkshire Dales day tour with a scenic drive back to York.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Yorkshire Dales?

There are several different Yorkshire Dales day trips available to choose from, depending on your own travel style and preferences.

Day tours to the Yorkshire Dales from York

You’ll begin this Yorkshire Dales day tour by driving to the home of Wensleydale cheese to discover its 14th-century castle where Mary Queen of Scots was held prisoner.

Staying in the Wensleydale region, you’ll visit the market town of Hawes, which you can stroll at your leisure, before entering into the Yorkshire Dales National Park for a scenic drive.

After several photo opportunities, you’ll stumble upon Kettlewell, which features medieval stone cottages and quaint tea rooms. Hop back into your vehicle to continue on through the national park to reach your final stop of the day, Pateley Bridge, which is famed for its historic candy store.

Day trip to the Yorkshire Dales plus Fountains Abbey from York

This Yorkshire Dales day tour includes a visit to the best-preserved Cistercian monastery in the country, which operated for over 400 years until it was closed by Henry VIII in the 16th century.

You’ll then continue on a loop through the Yorkshire Dales, exploring sites such as Grassington, the roots of which date back to the Bronze Age, as well as the Wensleydale Creamery where you can try the cheese that is so beloved in Northern England.

Discover the endless rolling hills of Buttertub Pass before rounding your excursion out with a trip to the tumbling Aysgarth Falls.

Day tour to the Yorkshire Dales plus Herriot from York

The first destination on this Yorkshire Dales day trip is the market town of Masham, in the Wensleydale district, where you can discover its Anglo-Saxon roots and stretch your legs as you take an amble through a maze of enchanting streets.

Moving on, you’ll visit Grassington, which has been featured in the television series, “All Creatures Great and Small,” where you’ll have plenty of free time to explore its most charming attractions, including country pubs, and historic buildings.

Just outside of Grassington, you’ll see the mesmerizing Linton Falls as you make your way to the village of Bolton Abbey, best known for its monastery. Then, travel through the spa town of Harrogate on your way back to York where your excursion ends.

Private “All Creatures Great and Small” Yorkshire Dales day trip from York

Those who are looking for a more personalized Yorkshire Dales day trip can embark on an adventure that revolves around the television series, “All Creatures Great and Small.”

Alongside your knowledgeable guide, you’ll head to filming destinations that you’ll recognize from the series, which include Barden, Malham and Hawkswick. You’ll also stop off in Grassington where you can indulge in a local lunch or a classic cup of Yorkshire tea.

You’ll find the itinerary to be flexible in the afternoon, depending on whether you wish to visit the World of James Herriot center, which is dedicated to the novelist behind “All Creatures Great and Small,” or continue hopping between villages in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales.

How much does a day trip to the Yorkshire Dales from York cost?

Day trips to the Yorkshire Dales operate in small groups limited to 16 participants and cost approximately £60 per adult. Children between the ages of 4 and 15 will pay a reduced rate of between £40, and £50 each.

This tour price includes round-trip transportation and the services of a driver-guide, however, all entrance fees are at your own expense. The prices and inclusions for excursions that include Herriot are almost the same, however, the minimum age for children who wish to participate is 5.

If you opt for a private day tour of the Yorkshire Dales, which features the filming locations of “All Creatures Great and Small,” you can expect to pay between £460, and £470 per group of up to four guests.

With the maximum group size, you’ll each pay under £120. However, if you are part of a larger party, you can instead choose a tour option that suits your numbers.

What will you see and do?

The Yorkshire Dales National Park was first established in 1959 and is now one of 15 nature reserves in England. It is home to over 20 towns and villages, which are scattered throughout its 2,000 square kilometers of rolling hills, and verdant valleys.

The park features the “Three Peaks” — a series of hills that serve as a popular hiking route among intrepid adventurers. These include Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent, and the trail that covers all three peaks is just under 40 kilometers long.

The villages themselves typically feature medieval stone buildings and cobbled streets, making them popular among photographers, and history buffs. The natural wonderland provides a home to several types of mammals, including the endangered red squirrel, as well as otters and hedgehogs.

On top of fauna, you may also find impressive limestone formations, as well as endemic species of moss, on a day trip to the Yorkshire Dales.

When is the best time to visit the Yorkshire Dales?

The best time to visit the Yorkshire Dales is during the weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, when visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and stunning landscapes while avoiding the weekend tourist rush.

The optimal months to visit are in the spring, from April to June, and in the autumn, from September to November.

Are there any tours to the Yorkshire Dales from other cities in England?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in England:

• Day Trips to Yorkshire Dales from Manchester

Travel tips

• Consider booking a guided tour in advance to ensure a well-organized and informative experience. Check for options departing from major cities like Leeds, York, or Manchester.
• Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella to be prepared for varying conditions.
• Bring your camera and binoculars to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife of the Yorkshire Dales.
• Keep yourself hydrated during the tour, and carry some light snacks to keep your energy levels up while exploring the picturesque Dales.