- Itineraries
- More To Dales
There's More To The Yorkshire Dales
Think you know North Yorkshire? There’s more to it than you might expect. We’ve put together a three‑day itinerary so you don’t miss out on hidden treasures and standout experiences.
About This Itinerary
Whether you’ve wandered the Yorkshire Dales a hundred times or you’re discovering the area for the very first time, we’ve put together a three‑day itinerary to show you that There’s More to North Yorkshire than you might think.
With a stay at the famous Tan Hill Inn and a chance to taste your way through Wensleydale Creamery, this is a trip you’ll treasure long after you’ve returned home. Pack your hiking boots for a stretch of the Pennine Way, then settle in beside the fire at The Green Dragon in Hardraw for a classic country evening.
Itinerary Schedule
Tan Hill Inn
Famously known as Britain’s highest pub, this remote inn is a must visit for walkers, cyclists and road trippers.
Sitting alone in the wild moorland, you'll be greeted by a herd of sheep and panoramic views. With en-suite rooms, a bunkhouse, star-gazing pods, plus space for wild camping and camper vans, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Settle in for the evening and enjoy hearty pub classics and Yorkshire favourites, along with craft beers, spirits and the pub’s own branded ales. With acoustic open mic sessions and regular live music, you’ll be set for entertainment.
Take time to unwind and refuel, ready for a weekend of exploring!
Wander the town of Hawes
Waking up in the Yorkshire Dales means one thing… it’s time to get outside! Breathe in the fresh air, stretch your legs and embrace whatever wild weather Britain’s highest pub has in store for you.
After a scenic 30-minute drive through rolling hills you’ll find Hawes, the main town in Upper Wensleydale. With independent shops, welcoming cafés and hidden local treasures, It’s a lovely place to spend a slow morning. Visit local museums or head out on a bike ride before your next stop.
Top tip: Tuesday is Market day, an opportunity to pick up local produce, crafts and gifts.
A Cheesy Afternoon at Wensleydale Creamery
Cheese lovers, this one’s for you! The Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre is home to the UK’s flagship Cheese Experience, where you can explore over 1,000 years of cheesemaking heritage. Watch live demonstrations, sample local favourites in the Taste of Yorkshire room, and peek into the Creamery to watch the skilled team crafting their famous cheeses.
A standout moment of any visit is the indulgent cheesy afternoon tea at Calvert’s restaurant, featuring treats like toasted Yorkshire Wensleydale and Red Leicester scones, a three‑cheese quiche and a ginger cheese cheesecake served with sweeping views of the Yorkshire Dales.
Don’t forget to pop into the Cheese and Gift Shop where you’ll find the perfect gift for every Wallace & Gromit fan and a snack for the road... The Yorkshire Wensleydale with mango and ginger is irresistible!
Head back to the Tan Hill Inn and watch the sun set over the hills from the beer garden - the perfect way to end the day.
Take a hike along The Pennine Way
The Pennine Way is a 268‑mile National Trail running from Derbyshire to the Scottish Borders, passing straight through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. You can join the most northerly point of the trail right outside the Tan Hill Inn. Simply head south towards Keld and choose how far you’d like to hike. It’s a 4.1 mile route to Keld, crossing the open moorland of Upper Swaledale with old stone barns, sweeping views and endless rolling hills.
For a more exhilarating challenge, continue towards Hardraw for another 7.5 miles along what many consider the most scenic section of the Pennine Way. When you reach Hardraw, you’ll step straight into the welcoming Green Dragon pub, the perfect reward after a big day.
A classic country pub, The Green Dragon
With its stone floors, crackling fires and centuries‑old character, the historic Green Dragon at Hardraw is just the place to settle in for the evening. As you’d expect from a traditional North Country inn the food is delicious, with a menu built around locally sourced produce from hearty pies and stacked burgers to perfectly cooked steaks and a chef’s daily special to tempt you.
Depending on the weather, soak up the sun in the beer garden or cosy up by the fire, choose from a selection of locally brewed beers, spirits, wines and alcohol-free options - there’s something to suit every taste.
Raise your glass to a wonderful weekend away!
A Day in the city of Ripon
Why not extend your trip, and head to Ripon! One of England’s tiniest cities packed with personality and charm. Visit Kirkgate, a bunting covered street lined with cute cafés and quirky shops that lead you straight to Ripon Cathedral. The Cathedral is free to enter and definitely worth the visit if you love history.
Just five miles from Ripon sits Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest monastic ruins in the country. Spend your day in awe as you walk beneath vaulted ceilings and grand stone columns. An unmissable experience before you head home.
