Things to do in the Yorkshire Dales

Ribblehead Viaduct

Nearest station: Ribblehead

The top pick for any first-time traveller to the Dales, the Ribblehead Viaduct is a must-see from the ground or from one of our trains on the Settle-Carlisle line. Still in use as a railway line, the viaduct crosses 400 metres of moor and is 32 metres high with massive stone arches supporting the Grade II listed building.

Built by hundreds of navvies (builders), this feat of engineering has multiple memorials nearby and along it to commemorate the lives lost from fights, smallpox and accidents when building the viaduct.

A great option for a walk or as a lookout over the moor as you travel by train, the viaduct provides the perfect blend between human-made beauty and the sublime of nature. Spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the surrounding moorland comes alive with wildflowers and wildlife. Several walking routes begin close to Ribblehead station, allowing visitors to combine a train journey with some of the Yorkshire Dales' most breathtaking scenery. Keep an eye out for the famous Three Peaks in the distance, as well as the area's resident red squirrels and birds of prey.

Experience the beauty with Northern and our cheaper same-day tickets, meaning you can take a spur-of-the-moment trip to embrace our magnificent country. 

Visit Ribblehead Viaduct

Three Peaks: Pen-y-ghent

Nearest station: Horton-in-Ribblesdale

Getting off just before the viaduct will land you in Horton-in-Ribblesdale and right beside one of the most iconic fells in England: Pen-y-ghent. Many people’s first peak in the Yorkshire Three Peaks, the circuit involves a 6-mile walk with fantastic scenery all around, including the Hunt and Hull Pots on the way down.

Reaching a peak of 694 metres, Pen-y-ghent offers a slightly challenging but highly rewarding walk across one of the Dales’ most popular areas. The route is also dog-friendly, however, it is important to keep an eye on any animals as the area is still farmland and being worked by farmers in the area.

Visiting between April and June offers excellent walking conditions, with longer days, colourful wildflowers and lambs grazing across the surrounding fields. As the route crosses working farmland, remember to keep dogs under close control and follow the Countryside Code to help protect livestock and local wildlife.

After your trek, reward yourself with refreshments in Horton-in-Ribblesdale before catching the train home. Get your walking boots and stomp over to the station on any day you like with an anytime ticket from Northern, letting you decide your schedule. 

Complete the Three Peaks Challenge

Mountain Biking Over the Stake

Nearest station: Horton-in-Ribblesdale

Looking for something more adventurous than a countryside walk? The Over the Stake mountain biking route is one of the Yorkshire Dales' most rewarding cycling experiences, combining challenging climbs with incredible views across the National Park.

Starting from Horton-in-Ribblesdale station, the circular route covers approximately 37 miles and climbs more than 1,000 metres, making it ideal for experienced mountain bikers looking to put their skills to the test. Along the way, you'll pass open moorland, quiet country lanes and rugged off-road trails showcasing some of the Yorkshire Dales' most dramatic scenery.  

Spring and early summer are fantastic times to tackle the route, with dry trail conditions, colourful wildflowers and clear views across the surrounding hills. Be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks and suitable clothing, as weather conditions in the Dales can change quickly, even during warmer months.

Before setting off, take time to explore Horton-in-Ribblesdale or enjoy breakfast or lunch at one of the village's welcoming cafés and pubs. It's the perfect place to refuel before or after your ride.

Whether you're visiting for a challenging ride or simply to enjoy the scenery, travelling by train means you can relax after a full day in the saddle instead of facing the drive home. Plan ahead and save on your journey by getting your travel sorted early with Northern’s cheaper advance tickets.

Mountain Biking

Victoria Cave and Jubilee Cave

Nearest station: Settle

These two caves offer both shelter and a wonderful glimpse into the past, with the walls of these caves dating back hundreds of thousands of years ago. Both have been sites of archaeological discoveries, with most of the groundbreaking work being conducted in Victoria Cave.

A limestone cave, Victoria Cave has had every manner of archaeological find within its storied cavern. From hippo, elephant and rhino bones to Roman artefacts like brooches, the cave has seen it all. The walk from Settle to Victoria Cave is a rewarding adventure in itself, taking visitors through beautiful limestone scenery with fantastic views over the surrounding countryside. Along the way, interpretation boards explain the cave's history, helping bring its remarkable discoveries to life.

Families will enjoy exploring the cave entrance and surrounding walking trails, while history enthusiasts can follow up their visit with a trip to nearby Craven Museum to see many of the artefacts uncovered during excavations. Along with the important archaeological finds in both caverns, they are also great places to take kids, thanks to the awe-inspiring cave walls formed by Mother Nature herself, as well as some fantastic spots overlooking the Dales. 

Spring is an especially lovely time to visit, when woodland flowers begin to bloom, and the surrounding countryside is full of colour. It's a great day out for the family, and with the town of Settle right nearby, caving in the Dales is a great way to get outdoors with the kids. Make travel easier and cheaper with a Northern family ticket. 

Visit Victoria Cave

The Historic Market Town of Settle

Nearest station: Settle 

Nestled on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Settle is a charming market town that's well worth exploring before or after your outdoor adventure. Just a short walk from Settle station, you'll find cobbled streets, independent shops, welcoming cafés and traditional pubs, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere. 

Settle has been welcoming visitors for centuries and is an excellent base for discovering the surrounding countryside. Browse local galleries and gift shops, enjoy lunch in one of the town's independent cafés or wander through the historic market square before heading out on one of the many nearby walking routes. The town also provides easy access to several scenic trails, including riverside walks along the River Ribble and routes leading towards Victoria Cave and the limestone landscapes that make this part of the Yorkshire Dales so distinctive. Visiting between April and June means you'll enjoy vibrant floral blooms, pleasant temperatures and plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the views. 

Whether you're looking for a relaxed afternoon exploring local history or somewhere to unwind after a walk, Settle combines beautiful scenery with Yorkshire hospitality, and Northern offers a variety of tickets to explore it all. 

Visit Settle Market

Craven Museum

Nearest station: Skipton

If the archaeological finds in the caves piqued your interest, then a trip to the Craven Museum in Skipton would be the next best stop for you. Holding a variety of the Roman artefacts found in Victoria Cave, Craven Museum has a whole host of other important historical items like Shakespeare’s first Folio of plays.

The museum also offers a range of limited exhibitions that include work from local artisans and artists to create a unique experience for those visiting. They also host a varied programme of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing work by local artists alongside family-friendly activities and interactive displays. During school holidays and weekends, children can often take part in trails, craft sessions and themed events, making it an excellent choice for families looking for an indoor activity after a morning exploring the Yorkshire Dales. That also includes live shows like “Horrible Histories” often being performed.

The Craven Museum is the natural conclusion to a day in the Yorkshire Dales with fun for adults and kids alike. Travel with Northern and take you and yours to the Yorkshire Dales with cheaper Duo tickets. 

Visit Craven Museum

Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail 

Nearest station: Clapham 

If you're looking for one of the most accessible family-friendly walks in the Yorkshire Dales, the Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail is an excellent choice. Beginning just a short walk from Clapham station, the trail winds through peaceful woodland, landscaped gardens and limestone scenery before reaching the impressive Ingleborough Cave. 

The well-maintained paths make this route suitable for a wide range of visitors, while interpretation boards along the way highlight the area's fascinating geology, wildlife and history. During spring and early summer, the woodland comes alive with birdsong and colourful wildflowers, making April to June one of the best times to visit. For those wanting to extend their adventure, the trail also serves as the starting point for walks towards Ingleborough, one of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks. Whether you choose a gentle stroll through the estate or a more challenging hike into the surrounding hills, you'll be rewarded with beautiful Yorkshire Dales scenery throughout your journey. 

The nearby village of Clapham is well worth exploring too, with welcoming cafés and traditional pubs providing the perfect place to relax after your walk before catching the train home. Let Northern trains sweep you away to this gorgeous spot and secure your tickets today.

Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail

Ready to explore the Yorkshire Dales? 

Whether you're walking one of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks, discovering ancient caves, cycling across spectacular countryside or exploring the historic streets of Skipton, there's no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting in the Yorkshire Dales. 

With Northern's regular services and the Yorkshire Dales Explorer, travelling to the National Park is simple, comfortable and convenient. Leave the car behind, enjoy the journey through some of England's most spectacular scenery and spend more time making the most of your adventure. Book your train tickets today and start planning your next Yorkshire Dales escape.