From York: Herriot and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip

Tucked away in the lush, rolling landscapes of northern England lies the captivating Herriot Country and the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales National Park. This eight-hour journey transports visitors through a tapestry of charming towns, picturesque vistas, and historic sites, offering a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the bustling marketplace of Masham to the quaint "Darrowby" of Grassington, and from the serene Linton Falls to the ruins of Barden Tower, this day trip promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you yearning to uncover more.

Key Points

• Explore the charming towns and landscapes of Herriot Country and Yorkshire Dales National Park on an 8-hour tour departing from York.
• Discover the market town charm of Masham, including its renowned breweries and traditional Yorkshire ale-making.
• Enjoy the fictional ‘Darrowby’ portrayed in the TV series ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ by visiting the quaint village of Grassington.
• Marvel at the natural beauty of Linton Falls, a mesmerizing display of rushing water and tranquil pools in the Yorkshire Dales.
• Visit the historic ruins of Barden Tower and Bolton Priory, offering glimpses into the region’s rich history.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the picturesque Herriot Country and the Yorkshire Dales National Park, departing from the city of York.

Over the course of 8 hours, the tour will take guests to a variety of charming towns and villages, including the traditional market town of Masham, the picturesque Grassington, and the historical ruins of Bolton Priory.

Along the way, visitors will have the chance to admire the stunning natural landscapes, such as the Linton Falls.

With a friendly and knowledgeable driver/guide, and transportation by air-conditioned mini-coach, this tour provides a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a stop in the traditional market town of Masham, located in the picturesque Lower Wensleydale region.

From there, visitors will explore the charming town of Grassington, known for its role as the fictional ‘Darrowby’ in the beloved ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ television series.

Next, the tour will visit the beautiful Linton Falls, a popular natural attraction in the Yorkshire Dales.

The journey continues with a stop at the historical ruin of Barden Tower, followed by a visit to the 12th-century ruins of Bolton Priory, an Augustinian Monastery.

Throughout the day, the friendly and knowledgeable driver/guide will provide commentary, ensuring an informative and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Masham: Market Town Charm

The tour begins with a stop in the traditional market town of Masham, located in the picturesque Lower Wensleydale region. This charming town is known for its thriving marketplace, where locals and visitors alike gather to browse an array of stalls offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and regional specialties. The town’s charming architecture and historic buildings, including the 17th-century market cross and the imposing St. Mary’s Church, add to its timeless appeal. Masham is also home to two renowned breweries, Theakston’s and Black Sheep, offering visitors the opportunity to learn about the art of traditional Yorkshire ale-making.

Masham Highlights
Bustling Market	Historic Buildings	Renowned Breweries
Fresh Produce	St. Mary’s Church	Theakston’s and Black Sheep
Artisanal Goods	17th-century Market Cross	Yorkshire Ale Tasting

Grassington: ‘Darrowby’ Exploration

Nestled amidst the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, Grassington captivates visitors with its charming portrayal as the fictional town of ‘Darrowby’ in the beloved TV series ‘All Creatures Great and Small’.

The quaint cobbled streets and traditional stone buildings transport you back in time, allowing you to learn about the world of James Herriot’s beloved veterinary stories.

Explore the local shops, admire the 17th-century market square, and soak up the serene atmosphere that has made Grassington a popular destination for fans of the show.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or simply seeking a glimpse into rural Yorkshire life, Grassington’s ‘Darrowby’ charm is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Linton Falls: Scenic Splendor

After exploring the charming town of Grassington, the tour continues on to Linton Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder nestled within the stunning Yorkshire Dales landscape.

Cascading over a series of limestone ledges, Linton Falls creates a mesmerizing display of rushing water and tranquil pools, drawing visitors to marvel at its scenic splendor.

The falls offer a peaceful respite from the bustling town, allowing travelers to enjoy the serene beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.

Visitors can stroll along the well-maintained paths, admire the cascading waters, and capture the picturesque scenery on camera.

Linton Falls is a true highlight of the day trip, showcasing the natural wonders that make the Yorkshire Dales such a captivating destination.

Barden Tower: Historical Ruin

Following the visit to Linton Falls, the tour makes a stop at the historical ruin of Barden Tower, a magnificent 12th-century structure that once served as a stronghold for the powerful Clifford family. Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, this striking stone fortress offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Barden Tower
Architectural Style	Constructed	Significance
Medieval castle	12th century	Former stronghold of the Clifford family
Commanding Views	Condition	Visitor Experience
Overlooks the River Wharfe	Partially ruined, but well-preserved	Explore the remaining towers, gatehouses, and foundations

Wandering through the tower’s weathered walls and crumbling archways, guests can almost feel the weight of centuries of history pressing down upon them, making this a truly captivating stop on the Yorkshire Dales tour.

Bolton Priory: Augustinian Monastery

The tour then visits the 12th Century ruins of Bolton Priory, an Augustinian Monastery that once stood as a prominent religious institution in the Yorkshire Dales.

Constructed in the early 12th century, the priory served as the home and center of worship for an order of Augustinian canons for over 400 years, until its dissolution during the English Reformation in the 16th century.

The magnificent ruins showcase the priory’s impressive Gothic architecture, including the remains of the nave, chancel, and transepts.

Situated along the banks of the River Wharfe, the serene setting adds to the tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to imagine the daily life and devotion that took place within these hallowed walls centuries ago.

Important Information

This tour may not be suitable for children under 5 years. Collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated, provided the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them with boarding and disembarking.

Between November and March, some visitor attractions may be closed, and the tour may have to follow a different route or itinerary if weather conditions are unfavorable.

The tour doesn’t include food and drinks, and gratuities are optional. Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves some moderate walking.

Certain activities or attractions may require additional entrance fees, which aren’t included in the tour price.

Recap

This captivating day trip offers a unique opportunity to take in the charming towns and breathtaking landscapes of Herriot Country and the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

From the bustling market of Masham to the historical sites of Barden Tower and Bolton Priory, the tour promises a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide for a truly memorable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: