Home to some of the most outstanding scenery in the North, there's no better way to discover the Yorkshire Dales than by train.
From sweeping moorlands to crags and caves, the Yorkshire Dales National Park brings together beauty, history and wildlife into one. There's no shortage of places to explore with hills and valleys as far as the eye can see. The Three Peaks of Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent are the best-known hills in the Yorkshire Dales, popular with hillwalkers looking to take in the breathtaking sights. Travelling by train is also the perfect excuse to visit the Ribblehead viaduct, located right in the middle of the Three Peaks.
But that's not all you can do in the Dales. With more than 120 species of wildlife, spotting the many species that call this picturesque place home is all part of the fun. Take a trip to Malham Cove and climb the 70-metre cliff face or hear the roar of the water at Aysgarth Falls that has welcomed visitors for over 200 years.
There are also a variety of attractions to keep the whole family entertained, from historic museums to castle ruins and caverns. No trip to the Yorkshire Dales would be complete without sampling the many food and drink on offer, whether it's world-famous Wensleydale cheese, afternoon tea or something a little stronger.
It's never been easier to visit the Yorkshire Dales with our new Explorer service. Operating every Saturday from 8th June 2024, it connects Greater Manchester and East Lancashire to the renowned Settle-Carlisle line and iconic Yorkshire Dales. Find out more about our exciting new service and Go Do Your Thing in the Dales!
The Yorkshire Dales train stations
Spanning over 800 square miles, there are a few key stations throughout the Yorkshire Dales that Northern services. Find out more about each below.
Hellifield
Originally opened in 1849 and expanded in 1880, Hellifield station sits on the Bentham Line that connects Leeds and Morecambe via Skipton.
Long Preston
Also on the Bentham Line, Long Preston is the last station before the Settle-Carlisle line. The station has a small car park, as well as 10 bike stands.
Settle
Opened in 1876, Settle station was named a Grade II listed building in 1984 thanks to its Derby Gothic Style. It is the main northbound connection to Carlisle.
Horton-in-Ribblesdale
A small station close to Pen-y-ghent, Horton-in-Ribblesdale is unstaffed but a popular spot for those wishing to discover one of Yorkshire’s Three Peaks.
Ribblehead
Home to the famous viaduct, Ribblehead station sits in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales and hosts a visitor centre and coffee shop to enjoy.
Things to do in the Yorkshire Dales
Ribblehead Viaduct Walk
Take in the historic sights of the Ribblehead Viaduct with this circular walk, starting at Ribblehead Station.
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Things to do in the Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales is home to some of the nation's most idyllic scenery and can be summed up in one word: sublime. Within the rolling hills and deep valleys rests some of the North of England’s favourite and most adventurous destinations. From mountain ...
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Trains to the Yorkshire Dales FAQs
Save up to 65% on train tickets to the Yorkshire Dales when you book in advance with Northern. Advance tickets allow you to book up to 9 weeks in advance of travel. Don't worry if your plans change – you can swap the departure time of your Advanced train ticket for another same-day Northern service in just a few steps for as little as £2.50.
Given the size of the Yorkshire Dales, the main train station will depend on where you want to explore. Horton-in-Ribblesdale is closest to Pen-y-ghent, one of Yorkshire's Three Peaks, while Ribblehead is closest to the world-famous viaduct.
Pets are welcome on Northern trains to the Yorkshire Dales. Up to two pets per passenger can travel for free and dogs must be kept on the lead at all times or in a carrier. Find out more about taking your dog on a Northern train.
There are no specific luggage restrictions on Northern trains to the Yorkshire Dales. However, we ask that passengers are mindful of how much luggage they bring and use the dedicated luggage space provided. Please do not block the train doors, walkways or use seats for luggage.
If you lose an item on a Northern train to the Yorkshire Dales or at a Yorkshire Dales station, we will do our best to find the item for you. To report a lost item, call 0800 200 6060 or find out more on specific stations here.
Bicycles are allowed on Northern trains to the Yorkshire Dales, however, space is limited and is first come, first served. We ask those using bicycles not to block doorways and use the dedicated bike spaces. Find more about cycling with Northern here.
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Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.