Long before it was designated as a National Park, visitors, artists and writers sought out the Yorkshire Dales for its unspoilt, breathtaking and dramatic scenery. However, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is much more than just a series of nice views. It is a living landscape brimming with rich history, tradition and nature, and awesome geological features – an outdoor classroom, just waiting to be discovered.

The wealth of natural heritage here is outstanding and includes internationally important habitats such as limestone pavement, heather moorland and hay meadows, whilst the historic environment gives us a direct link with the generations who shared the landscape and settlements of the Dales.

Today this special place is a favourite destination for walkers, cyclists, horse-riders alike and for those who want to explore the lovely villages, find out more about the Dales’ booming industrial past, experience a traditional agricultural show or village gala or just enjoy a gentle stroll or picnic in the fresh air. It’s a place for all seasons with something for everyone.

Horse Riding in the Yorkshire Dales
Whatever time of year you choose to visit the Yorkshire Dales National Park and whatever the weather, you will always find something 'horsey' to enjoy. There are miles of bridleways to discover on horseback and the Dales are also criss-crossed by hundreds of quiet country lanes, providing a brilliant selection of on-road walks of different lengths and difficulties. The National Park is also crossed by several long-distance routes including the fabulous Pennine Way and the 52-mile Settle Loop (see below) for horse riders.

If you'd just like to soak up the local atmosphere as well, why not visit one of the many picturesque Dales villages and get a taste of local life by attending a village gala or agricultual show during the summer months? Or, choose from the many dozens of wonderful teashops and pubs which will revive and refresh you with their tasty range of local food and drink.

And if you'd like to find out about local history, you could either visit the fascinating Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes or take part in one of the many events organised by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority. Guided walks, bat and birdwatching, fungal forays, mapreading and traditional craft demonstrations - these are just a few of the events they organise each year.

One of a family of 15 National Trails in England and Wales and the first to be designed specifically for horse-riders, off-road cyclists and walkers to enjoy, the entire Pennine Bridleway will eventually run from the High Peak Trail in Derbyshire to Byrness, Northumberland. It follows an interesting mix of old pack horse routes and drove roads (often sensitively refurbished and upgraded), linked with newly created stretches of bridleway. The trail takes in some of the best scenery of the North of England and passes through the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland National Parks.

The Bridleway is a massive project and the route is opening in stages.  The first 120 miles from Derbyshire to the Mary Townley Loop in the South Pennines is already open, whilst the first major section in the Yorkshire Dales – the Settle Loop – opened in August 2005.