Nidderdale and Beyond
There is so much to see and enjoy in Nidderdale and beyond in the Yorkshire Dales. From history and wildlife to the treasures of a protected landscape that is the Nidderdale National Landscape (the new name for an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), and the friendly Yorkshire places that are so welcoming to all visitors.
Studfold, and Nidderdale, are central for exploring the other Yorkshire Dales, such as, Wensleydale, Swaledale and Wharfedale. You really will be spoilt for choice, and have no problem filling your days with fun, exploration and interest for all members of the family.
From a leisurely stroll through the peaceful countryside, to busy towns and cities that are a shopaholic’s dream such as Harrogate and York, you can set your own pace. If a little culture is the order of the day there are many museums, art galleries and heritage centres on offer, as well as historical castles, abbeys and country houses.
For frivolous fun, thrills and spills, Lightwater Valley Theme Park is nearby. If you’ve never tried a day at the races, now might be the time, with courses a stone’s throw away at York, Wetherby, Ripon and Thirsk.
The Upper Dale is home to the most picturesque parts of the Nidderdale Way, a circular walk of over 50 miles. There are many beautiful sights and places for reflection and tranquillity, such as Scar House and Angram Reservoirs. And at Ramsgill do not miss out on the chance to visit Sarah Garforth’s Ramsgill Studio to see the work of an amazing local artist.
In the quaint market town of Pateley Bridge, seven miles from Studfold, there are traditional shops, a small theatre, and the fascinating Nidderdale Museum.
Close to Pateley are the fascinating geographical features of Brimham Rocks and Stump Cross Caverns, which are both recommended for a visit. Malham Cove is another natural wonder not to be missed near Skipton and the gardens at Harlow Carr in Harrogate are a gardener’s delight.
A short, ten-minute drive from Pateley Bridge is the Coldstones Cut. This is a massive artwork that visitors can freely walk through and explore. The sculpture overlooks the huge working Coldstones Quarry and offers spectacular views over the scenery of Nidderdale in the Yorkshire Dales.
The World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey is close to Ripon, one of England’s smallest cities, which is a forty-minute trip from Studfold. Closer by, and for those in need of liquid refreshment, is the Black Sheep Brewery and its guided tours.
If you travel down through Pateley Bridge and over Greenhow Hill, famous as a steep-hill climb for the Tour de Yorkshire Cycling race, you will easily discover villages and attractions nestled in the wonderful Dales countryside, such as Bolton Abbey, Kilnsey Cragg, Burnsall, Grassington, Kettlewell and Skipton.
If retail therapy is required, there are many charming Yorkshire market towns such as Pateley Bridge, Masham, Leyburn, Bedale, Grassington, Ripon, Skipton and Northallerton.
For the outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of opportunities with locally-offered mountain bike hire, pony trekking and paintballing. Nidderdale Recreation Centre has a full programme of activities, swimming and sports. And Lost Earth Adventures are readily available with amazing outdoor pursuits for you and a group, or your family.
The Tour de Nidderdale is a guided tour of beautiful Nidderdale to celebrate Le Tour de France 2014. There are two routes that are suitable for very experienced bicycle riders or for visitors discovering Nidderdale by car. This is a good rainy-day activity in the car. Adults and children can find all the commemorative plaques on the way round! You can print off your maps here or ask at Reception.
Studfold is such a great outdoor base and holds boundless opportunities throughout the Yorkshire Dales areas. Don’t forget there’s also the National Trusts 50 Things To Do Before You're 11¾. Why not sign up and see how many adventures you can experience?
Check out too, a fantastic list of fun things to do on wet days! And Dales Discoveries generally, for even more things to do, come rain or shine!
