Walking
The Nidderdale Way
The Nidderdale Way is a 53-mile circular walk starting and finishing in Pateley Bridge, the location of Ashfield House. The route falls mainly within the Nidderdale AONB, leaving only for a short stretch to go through the picturesque village of Ripley.
The walk takes you through beautiful and contrasting countryside – from the spectacular uplands around Scar House Reservoir at the head of Nidderdale to more gentle rolling pasture and river valleys along the course of the Nidd.
Some quite challenging climbs along the route are rewarded by spectacular glimpses of Nidderdale. Don’t miss the breathtaking view from Middlesmoor Church.
Bewerley Industrial Heritage Trail
Explore almost a thousand years of lead mining history on this walk through stunning scenery. The route passes by a hand-cut level, the remains of old smelt mills and a unique 19th Century lime kiln.
For walks around Nidderdale please visit the Niddderdale AONB website
Brimham Rocks
4 miles
The Brimham Rocks are balancing rock formations located on Brimham Moor. The rocks stand at a height of nearly 30 metres.
The property is open all year around; typically from 8 a.m. until dusk. Entry is free, however car parking is charged for those who are not members of The National Trust.
There are many variations of rock formations, caused by the Millstone Grit being eroded by water, glaciation and wind, most of which have achieved amazing shapes. Many of the formations have been named, though some imagination is required and the correct viewing angle is helpful. Examples are The Sphinx, The Watchdog, The Camel, The Turtle and The Dancing Bear.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden
8 miles
Fountains Abbey is near to Aldfield, approximately two miles southwest of Ripon in North Yorkshire, England. It is a ruined Cistercian monastery, founded in 1132. Fountains Abbey is one of the largest and best preserved Cistercian houses in England. It is a Grade I listed building and owned by the National Trust. Along with the adjacent Studley Royal Water Garden, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Coldstones Cut
3 miles
The Coldstones Cut created by the artist Andrew Sabin. It is a massive construction which visitors can freely walk through which overlook the huge working Coldstones Quarry and offers spectacular views over the scenery of Nidderdale in the Yorkshire Dales.
Nidderdale Museum
Less 1 mile
The Nidderdale Museum is housed in a former workhouse in Pateley Bridge. Exhibits focus on rural life and include such period room and business displays as a cobbler’s workshop, schoolroom, Victorian parlour, general store, 1930s hairdresser’s shop and a kitchen. Other displays include historic costumes, agriculture tools and equipment, local industries and transport vehicles.
The Oldest Sweet Shop in England
Less 1 mile
The oldest sweet shop in England is in Pateley Bridge and was established in 1827 and provide a large range of the best quality sweets.
How Steen Gorge
7 miles
How Stean Gorge is a spectacular limestone gorge in the Yorkshire Dales. This steep sided chasm is almost 1 km in length and up to 20 metres deep in places. You can follow winding walkways, explore caves and tunnels. There is also a gift centre and cafe.
RHS Garden Harlow Carr
16 miles
The Royal Horticultural Society’s garden Harlow Carr is one of four public gardens run by the Society. It is located on the western edge of Harrogate in the English county of North Yorkshire
The garden has also has a shop, plant centre and the world famous Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms.